How to Host the Ultimate Gaming Night: Casino Edition

Everyone knows the excitement and the thrill of the casino, whether they have been there themselves to bask in the luxurious ambience of a casino in Vegas, or they've seen the likes of James Bond playing cards in Monte Carlo.

We love to recreate this atmosphere and excitement for ourselves, whether it is by playing some Fishin Frenzy  in an online casino or by hosting  a poker night for our friends. If you want to take it to the next level, why not make your next get together a casino party and pull out all the stops for a gaming night that nobody will ever forget.

Below are some tips and things to think about that will make your casino night one to remember.

Venue

Any space can be turned into a casino with a little imagination. Large rooms, community centres and village halls lend themselves to the grandiose space that you would find in the pit, so you can have several table games set up ready to play.

Smaller rooms are just as good though "“ you can totally recrate the more intimate gaming rooms that are found in the most exclusive of casinos.

Décor

Think of a casino, and the likelihood is that you are thinking of the gaming floor at The Bellagio "“ sweeping vistas, glittering chandeliers, and opulence everywhere you look.

You can make the most of your space in the way that suits you "“ if you can pull off the exquisite marble and luxury of a premier Vegas destination, then that is perfect.

However, for a bit more of a relaxed (and achievable) look, you might consider just adding some little touches. The games tables should be covered with green felt, and you can add things like 'Welcome to Vegas' signs, giant dice, and a red and black theme.

Games

This is the real place where you should be considering the space that you have. You want your guests to be able to play games, but you are likely to be limited on space "“ so consider which games you want to feature. Blackjack and poker are always winners, and you won't need any extra props to make it work.

Roulette and slots are quintessentially casino-esque, but they may require you to hire equipment.

Ambience

The atmosphere you create will be an intrinsic part of the night. Think about soft jazz coming over the speakers, or for a suave experience why not choose some Rat Pack or even some orchestral classics.

You might even want to hook up a TV to show the big game, especially if your guests are having a gamble on the outcome.

Don't forget about lighting, too. Light and bright for the sumptuous Bellagio look, and side lamps or table lamps only if you're going for the private high roller room look.

Drink

No casino night is complete without refreshments. You're going to want to offer champagne (or at least prosecco), but you might also want to consider whether some top shelf spirits might make an appearance. Bourbon is always a good choice for this, as is vodka "“ especially if you want to create a Martini (shaken, not stirred, naturally).

If budget is a consideration, then make it a BYOB "“ then you know your guests will have plenty of drink to enjoy.

Food

In a casino, players would usually stop for a meal. This might not suit your night, however "“ so if you are going to provide food, it is better to go for something more buffet style so that your guests can eat as they play.

Finger foods can be as simple "“ or as extravagant "“ as you like. Choose simple basics like mozzarella sticks and cheese and pineapple or go all out with lobster bites or sushi. Just remember, casino nights are busy and involve a lot of moving around, so it needs to be as mess-free as possible.

The Ultimate Experience

With all these ideas available, you are sure to be ready to host your own unforgettable night "“ but there is a way that you can make it even better.

Hiring a casino experience might be an expense, but it is an absolute gamechanger.

You can hire blackjack and poker tables "“ that are designed to be the same as those in a real casino. You can hire roulette wheels, and even slot machines too "“ and have them installed and ready to go when your guests arrive.

Another addition that you can make for the ultimate experience is to hire staff. Croupiers are available to come and work your tables for you, allowing you and your friends to concentrate on the point of the night "“ playing casino games. Staff can also be on hand to offer drinks to your guests, and to bring out more food when it is needed.

Adding the professional touches will make it a real casino experience "“ from the comfort of your own home.