How to host an escape room party

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If you're aiming to host a birthday party that's a cut above the rest, consider hosting an escape room party. Instead of having guests sitting around chatting, an escape room birthday party offers a blend of mystery, teamwork, and adrenaline that's hard to find elsewhere. Ideal for birthday celebrations, team-building events, or just a novel way to gather friends and family, escape room parties provide an immersive environment where guests can dive into a different world. Read on for tips on how to make your escape room party an unforgettable event for everyone involved.

What is an escape room party?

An escape room party is an immersive real life experience that revolves around a themed room where participants solve puzzles and discover clues to complete a mission and "escape" within a set time limit. It's a unique blend of storytelling, challenge, and teamwork that makes for an engaging party.

Why host an escape room birthday party?

Escape room parties elevate the typical birthday gathering into an experience that engages and excites everyone involved. By placing participants in a scenario where teamwork and problem-solving are essential to success, these parties foster a unique type of collaboration and camaraderie. The challenge is not just limited to winning an escape room but requires groups to communicate effectively, think creatively, and work together closely, which isn't something you see at most birthday celebrations. This environment leads to laughter, suspense, and an exhilarating rush that makes the event a blast.

How to host an escape room party?

When it comes to planning an escape room party, there are several things you need to consider to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for your guests.

1. Plan your escape room party

First off, you need to select a date for the event and get confirmed RSVPs from all your guests. Having a solid headcount is essential because it determines which escape room or rooms you can book and how much it will cost. Once you have your numbers in hand, research what escape rooms are available in your area — pro tip: Morty is excellent for this kind of thing — and reach out to a few to see if they have additional amenities such as a party room. Many venues provide spaces for celebrations free of charge when you book an experience.

Additionally, rather than being annoying to them, venues often appreciate a heads-up that you are hosting a gathering and are usually more than willing to go the extra mile to ensure your experience is memorable. They might even offer unique additions like printing a special certificate for the birthday person.

2. Choose the right escape room

When planning an escape room party, it's crucial to take into account the themes and difficulty levels available. Choose a theme that aligns with your guests' interests and the age group of the party to ensure everyone finds the experience enjoyable and engaging. Be mindful that not every escape room is appropriate for young kids, as some themes may be too complex or even frightening. Conversely, rooms that are too easy might not provide enough challenge for guests who are avid puzzle solvers, making the selection process an important step to cater to everyone's tastes and abilities.

Additionally, consider the capacity of the escape room in your planning process. While it might be tempting to fill the room to its maximum capacity to get more bang for your buck, this approach can backfire by creating a crowded and disorganized environment. If you are hosting a larger group, consider the option of booking multiple rooms or arranging for staggered start times. This strategy not only prevents the space from becoming too congested but also ensures that each participant can fully engage with the experience, making the adventure more enjoyable for all involved.

3. Customize your escape room party

Including personalized elements into your escape room party elevates the entire experience for your guests, making it uniquely memorable. Consider sending out themed invitations that hint at the adventure that awaits. If the venue permits, you could even collaborate on a custom escape room storyline. If you are hosting a kids escape room birthday party, consider also creating matching team t-shirts not only foster a sense of unity among the participants but also serve as a tangible keepsake from the experience.

4. Enjoy the afterparty

After the adrenaline of the game has subsided, continue to immerse your guests in the theme by serving puzzle-themed snacks or a cake in the party room, where guests can debrief, laugh about the experience, and enjoy treats that remind them of the puzzles they just solved. It's your opportunity to be inventive and provide your guests with a thought-out experience that they'll talk about long after the party is over.

Tips for hosting an escape room birthday party

Early booking is key: Escape rooms can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book well in advance to secure your preferred date, time, and event space.

Understand the rules: Make sure you and your guests know any specific rules of the escape room to avoid any disruptions during the game.

Plan for food and drinks: If you’re using a party room, plan what food and drinks you’ll be bringing well in advance.

Capture the moment: Don't forget to take pictures! Many escape rooms offer photo opportunities with props after the game. It's a great way to remember the day.

Hosting an escape room party is about creating an unforgettable experience that combines fun, challenges, and teamwork. With careful planning, the right venue, and a touch of creativity, you can throw a party that your guests will rave about long after the event. So, get ready to lock in your plans and escape the ordinary with an escape room party!

FAQs

How do you become a good escape room host?

Being a good host means ensuring everyone is engaged and having fun. Brief your guests on what to expect and encourage them to participate fully. Be enthusiastic and consider any special needs your guests might have to make the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Why should you host an escape room birthday party?

Escape room parties are unique, memorable, and foster a sense of accomplishment among participants. They're perfect for people looking for something different than the usual party scene. Plus, they offer a great way to challenge your mind while having fun.

What age group is best suited for an escape room party?

Escape rooms are great for a wide range of ages, starting from about 10 years old and up. However, the key is to pick a theme and difficulty level that matches the age and maturity of your group. Many escape rooms offer various themes that are suitable for children, teens, and adults, ensuring everyone has a challenging yet enjoyable experience. Always check with the escape room venue for any age restrictions or suggestions based on the party's demographic.

Can you customize an escape room experience for a birthday party?

Many escape room venues are open to customizing the experience for birthday parties. This could range from incorporating the birthday person's name into the storyline, adding personalized puzzles, or even adjusting the difficulty level. It's best to discuss these options with the venue ahead of time to see what special touches they can add to make the celebration even more memorable.

What should guests bring to an escape room party?

Guests should wear comfortable clothing and shoes as they might be moving around or standing for an hour. It's also a good idea to leave large bags or unnecessary items behind, as personal belongings are often stored in lockers or a designated area during the game. Check with the venue if they allow phones in the rooms, but it's generally encouraged to be fully present and engaged with the experience.

How long does an escape room party usually last?

The escape room experience itself typically lasts about 60 minutes, but plan for a total duration of 1.5 to 2 hours to include the pre-game briefing, the game, and a post-game debrief. If your booking includes access to a party room for celebrations afterward, that can add another hour or more to your event, depending on the venue's policy and your party plans.

Are food and drinks allowed in escape room parties?

Food and drinks are usually not allowed inside the escape rooms to protect the game's components and maintain a clean environment. However, if the venue has a party room, you're often welcome to bring or order in food and drinks for your post-escape celebration. Always check with the venue about their policies and whether they provide any catering services or have partnerships with local food providers.