Hosting a mystery party that’s fun, engaging and age appropriate doesn’t have to be a mystery itself! Are you planning a spooky whodunnit for teens? or a light-hearted sleuth session for younger kids? It doesn’t matter, because a well run mystery party creates laughter, connection and unforgettable memories for everyone. If you’re new to the game, here’s how to host a mystery party that’s perfect for your group, without breaking a sweat.
1. Choose the Right Mystery Game for the Age Group
The key to a successful party is choosing a storyline that matches the age, attention span and reading level of your guests. Merri Mysteries has a range of themed games, including gentle mysteries for children to more complex plots for teens and adults. Make sure to read the age guide for each kit to avoid content that might be too scary or too mature for your audience.
💡 Tip: For kids, choose games with clear roles, simple clues and plenty of silly moments to keep things light and fun.
2. Set the Scene with Simple Decorations
You don’t need a Hollywood budget to set the mood. A few well placed props, themed tableware and DIY decor can transform your space. For example a royal themed mystery could include plastic crowns and velvet cloth, while a spooky mystery could feature cobwebs and flickering candles (LED of course!). Keep decorations age appropriate and safe, no sharp props or over the top jump scares for the little ones.
3. Assign Roles in Advance
Send out character assignments before the party so your guests can arrive in costume and in character! This helps build excitement and gives everyone time to prepare. For younger players consider printing name tags with fun illustrations to help them remember who’s who.
4. Guide the Game as the Host
As the host your job is to keep the game flowing. For younger age groups you may want to simplify the script or offer extra hints. Keep an eye on the pacing and be ready to give gentle nudges if the story stalls. Merri Mysteries kits make this easy, with step by step instructions and optional clues that suit all types of players.
5. Add Age Appropriate Extras
Younger kids love activities like themed colouring sheets or a mini treasure hunt after the mystery is over. Teens might enjoy awards for “Best Actor” or “Most Dramatic Death Scene” to end the night with a laugh. Snacks and drinks can also be on theme, think “potion punch” or “detective donuts”.
6. Don’t Forget the Selfie Frame!
Photos are half the fun! Create a DIY selfie frame or order a custom one to match your mystery’s theme. It’s a fun way to encourage photos, capture the costumes and give guests a memento of the night. Trust us, posing with magnifying glasses, feather boas and fake mustaches never gets old.
7. Keep It Light and Flexible
Not everything will go according to plan, and that’s okay. The goal is to create a memorable, joy filled experience. Be flexible, especially with younger players who might lose focus or need help understanding the clues. The magic of a mystery party is in the laughter, teamwork and creativity it brings out in everyone.
8. What If You Can’t Get a Babysitter?
Sometimes, the grown ups just need some time for themselves. If you can’t find a babysitter, it doesn’t mean you have to cancel your night of mystery and fun. Consider hosting a daytime mystery party that’s family-friendly and inclusive of little ones, or even organising a mini mystery activity for kids while the main game runs. For future events, it’s worth exploring local options by searching “kindergarten near me” or checking out nearby childcare centres that offer casual care. Supporting services that value health & wellness not only benefits your child’s development but gives you the flexibility to socialise, host, and recharge when you need it most.
Ready to host your first mystery party? Browse our mystery kits and find the perfect plot for your group. Whether it’s pirates, princesses or paranormal puzzlers, there’s a mystery waiting to be solved.
