At My Mystery Kit, we know that hosting a murder mystery party is more than just putting on costumes and printing out objectives — it’s about creating the perfect atmosphere that keeps your guests fully engaged all night long. Getting the energy right can make the difference between an okay evening and an unforgettable night of fun. Here are our top tips for maintaining high energy throughout your murder mystery party, so that everyone stays in character, has a blast, and gets swept up in the drama.
1. Drinks Upon Arrival
To set the tone right from the start, offer drinks as soon as your guests walk through the door. If alcohol is part of your evening, pre-poured champagne for a glitzy casino theme or a retro punch for a 70s disco vibe will help your guests loosen up and feel at ease. Drinks are an excellent way to break the ice and get the party flowing right away.
2. Name Tags Upon Arrival
As guests enter, have name tags ready so they can immediately slip into character. This helps everyone get comfortable in their roles from the moment they walk in. Setting the tone with these small details can create a seamless immersion into the storyline.
3. Snacks to Keep the Energy Up
Before dinner is served, keep the energy up with a small selection of snacks. A cheeseboard or simple munchies like chips and dip can help fuel the conversation and keep everyone on track as they get into the game. Having food available ensures no one gets too hungry while the mystery is unfolding.
4. Assign Characters Early
One of the most important tips for a successful murder mystery is to assign characters at least using our character assignment guides a week before the party. This gives your guests time to study their roles, get their costumes ready, and think about how they’ll bring their characters to life. A little prep time makes all the difference in how involved everyone feels in the night.
5. Decorations Set the Scene
A well-decorated space enhances the atmosphere and adds to the immersive experience. If you’re looking for ideas, check out our blog on disco-themed decorations for some inspiration. Whether you go all out with set pieces or just focus on key elements like lighting and table settings, decorations help elevate the energy of your party space.
6. High-Energy Murder Scene
When it’s time for the murder, make sure it’s a dramatic affair! Encourage the victim to give their best fake death, and the other guests to react with shock and surprise. The more energy and drama you inject into this moment, the more fun it becomes for everyone. Get everyone involved in the spectacle!
7. Timing is Everything
The flow of the evening is crucial. Dragging out each section of the mystery can cause the energy to dip. At My Mystery Kit, we include time estimates in the host guide to help you keep things moving. But the best hosts keep an eye on their guests—if they’ve all completed their objectives, move things along to the next stage of the mystery.
8. Customise Your Murder Mystery Kit
One of the best ways to keep energy high is by personalizing your mystery kit. At My Mystery Kit, we offer free customizations, so you can include personal details and inside jokes that make the experience unique to your group. These custom touches can help break the ice, get people laughing, and keep the mood light and fun.
Top Tips for Getting the Energy Right
To make sure your murder mystery party is a hit, remember that the energy starts with you as the host. Be engaged, have fun with your character, and keep an eye on the overall mood. Make sure the drinks and snacks flow, keep the pace brisk, and don’t be afraid to be a little over-the-top when it comes to the drama. If you’re having fun, your guests will too, and the night will be one to remember!
So, whether you're hosting a 70s disco-themed whodunit or a glamorous casino night, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to keep the energy high and the mystery thrilling!