How to Host a Phone-Free Family Game Night

Connect without the wifi.

By Reveal Editors | August 14, 2024

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We get it—boredom strikes, and the pull of the screen can be strong, especially with kids and teens. But shouldn’t our time at home be more about engaging with each other than with electronics? Of course! And one of the best (and most fun) ways to do just that is by hosting a family game night, chock-full of classic ideas like Jenga and Twister, but also incorporating some new ways to connect as a family.

Game nights also happen to be one of Drew and Jonathan’s favorite ways to spend an evening together. “We’re very much homebodies and prefer staying in over a flashy night out, so we love hosting game night,” says Drew. It’s a simple and fun way to get everyone laughing, talking, and interacting with each other. And it could spark conversations you might have never had otherwise!

kids and adults playing lively games in living room, family game night ideas

woman playing heads up, family game night ideas

For more players, invite the neighbors and ask them to bring their favorite game. Having a mix of things—a deck of cards, interactive group games like Heads Up! or Twister, and a chessboard—will make sure that there are options for everyone, from grown-ups to kids. Then, fuel the fun with simple food that’s perfect for grazing and snacking throughout the night. Make a batch of chili, put out a cheese board and bowls of chips for nibbling, and warm up some cider in the slow cooker. As guests arrive, ask them to stash their phones in a basket. That means there won’t be Instagram proof that the party happened, but it’s a fair trade-off for something even better: face time (the real kind) and the bragging rights that come with an impressive Twister victory.

“Games are a low-cost, easy way to spend some quality time with friends and family… And to get in the spirit of a little friendly competition.”
— Jonathan

Family Game Night Ideas

Whether it’s a fun board game, a karaoke showdown, or a battle over who can build the best blanket fort—whatever games you want to play are up to you. Just make sure that everyone is on board and excited! The best family night memories come when everyone is smiling and having a good time together.

Drew and Jonathan’s Favorite Games

Jenga
Chess
Heads Up!
Chutes and Ladders

Twister
Pictionary
Trivial Pursuit
Rummikub

kids playing chutes and ladders, family game night ideas

boy holding heart cookie over his mouth, family game night ideas

“Game nights make it easy for everyone and anyone to join in. Bring the kids, your pets, come in your pajamas—as long as you bring your A-game!”
—Drew

Game Night Menu

The Perfect Grazing Platter

Cheeses and meats are a given on any charcuterie board—but adding on some other elements and flavors will build a well-balanced board. Incorporate fresh fruits and veggies, spicy dips or tangy spreads, and a crunchy cracker or crisp to round out your snack platter.

family snack platter with fresh meats, cheeses, spreads, dips, and fruits

CRUNCHY

Water Crackers
Fruit and nut toasts
Baguette slices

Sweet

Jams or jellies
Dried fruit
Honey

Tangy

Cornichons
Mustard
Caper berries

Salty

Nuts
Olives

Fresh

Baby carrots
Mini bell peppers
Apple or pear slices

Crowd-Favorite Chili, Easy Snack Mixes, and Drinks

A crowd-pleasing chili with a toppings bar is the main event here. Some easy snack mixes and warm spiced cider are great add-ons, but they’re absolutely optional. Click the photos for our recipes!