What You Need for a Board Game Night

A board game night needs more than a stack of games and a bowl of snacks. You’ll need enough table space for each game, spare pencils and dice, easy-to-serve food, and drinks that are chilled before guests arrive. Plan supplies around the number of players and tables rather than buying one large assortment. This checklist helps you cover the items people often forget, from score pads and card protectors to serving spoons and waste bins.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Tablesqty 5
Chairsqty 20
Tableclothsqty 5
Buffet table

Game materials

Board gamesqty 12
Game organizersqty 6
Diceqty 12
Card protectorsqty 2
Score padsqty 4
Pencilsqty 20
Pensqty 10
Timerqty 4
Play money traysqty 6

Tableware

Glassesqty 24
Coffee cupsqty 20
Platesqty 24
Cutlery setsqty 24
Small bowlsqty 12

Kitchen

Cutting boardsqty 2
Knivesqty 4
Serving spoonsqty 6
Serving plattersqty 8

Equipment

Kettlesqty 2
Coffee maker
Coolersqty 2
Bluetooth speaker

Decorations

Table décorqty 5
Welcome sign

Lighting

Mood lightingqty 4

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 3

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Tea - 2 boxes
- Sugar - 500 grams
- Milk - 4 liters
- Oat milk - 2 liter
- Sparkling water - 6 bottles
- Still water - 6 bottles
- Cola - 4 bottles
- Cola Zero - 4 bottles
- Sinas - 3 bottles
- Ice tea - 3 bottles
- Apple juice - 2 cartons
- Beer - 24 bottles
- Alcohol-free pilsner - 12 bottles
- Paprika chips - 3 bags
- Plain chips - 3 bags
- Tortilla chips - 3 bags
- Salsa - 2 jars
- Salted peanuts - 2 bags
- Spiced nuts - 2 bags
- Cheese cubes - 1 kilo
- Grapes - 2 kilos
- Apples - 2 kilo
- Cucumber - 3 pieces
- Carrots - 2 bags
- Hummus - 3 tubs
- Baguette - 5 pieces
- Wraps - 3 packs
- Cream cheese - 3 tubs
- Ketchup - 1 bottle
- Mayonnaise - 1 jar
- Napkins - 3 packs
- Paper towels - 2 rolls
- Toilet paper - 2 packs
- Trash bags - 1 roll
- Dish soap - 1 bottle
- Sponges - 1 pack
- All-purpose cleaner - 1 bottle
- Paper towels - 2 rolls

Tips

Plan one game table for every 4–6 players, then check that each game fits comfortably with its board, cards, player pieces, and drinks. Leave at least one spare chair for late arrivals or spectators.
Have at least two pencils and two pens per active table, plus spare score pads. These are easy to overlook, especially when several games need scores recorded at the same time.
Put small bowls on each table for dice, tokens, or snacks, and use game organizers for sets with many loose pieces. Check every game box at least one day before the event so missing components can still be replaced.
Set aside one glass per guest and keep extra glasses available for spills or forgotten drinks. Chill the drinks before setup, and place coolers where guests can reach them without crossing the game tables.
For a buffet, prepare one serving platter, serving spoon, and cutting board for each food group that needs its own utensil. Put waste bins near the buffet and seating area before guests arrive, not after the first round ends.

Frequently asked questions

How many board games do I need for a game night?: Prepare 1 game for every 4–6 players, plus 2 or 3 alternatives with different player counts. For 12 guests, having 5–6 complete games gives you enough choice and keeps tables active while groups change.
How many tables do I need for a board game night?: Use 1 game table for every 4–6 players. For 12 guests, plan on 2–3 game tables, depending on the size of the boards and whether players need space for cards, score pads, or play money.
What food and drink supplies do I need for board game night?: Provide 1 glass and 1 plate per guest, with 10–20% extra for replacements. Add small bowls for snacks, serving platters and spoons for the buffet, and chill drinks at least 2 hours before guests arrive.
When should I check the games and shopping list?: Check every game set and the full shopping list at least 24 hours before the event. Do the shopping no later than the day before, so missing dice, pencils, snacks, or drinks can still be added.

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