What to buy for a curling match
A curling match needs more than stones and brooms. Plan supplies for registration, team organisation, refreshments, scoring and prizes, then confirm what the venue already provides before buying anything. For a typical match, allow two to three drinks per person during the first hour, plus food portions for the full event. The list also covers serving items, hot drinks, power supplies and equipment for keeping games on schedule.
The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.
Tips
- Allow two to three drinks per participant for the first hour, then add one drink per person for each following hour. Chill bottled or canned drinks before guests arrive and keep a cooler near the reception area.
- Plan one plate, cutlery set and drinking glass per guest, plus about 10% extra for breakages, misplaced items and helpers. Include coffee cups, tea glasses and small bowls if you are serving hot drinks or snacks.
- Confirm equipment quantities with the curling venue at least 7 days before the match. Check that there are enough stones, brooms, curling shoes, sliders, starting blocks and team bibs for every active player.
- Prepare the scoring and timing kit before shopping day: one scoreboard per sheet, one game clock per active sheet and at least one stopwatch and whistle for the officials. Bring extension cords and power strips only after checking the venue’s available sockets.
- Order prizes and medals no later than 2 weeks before the match if they are personalised or need delivery. Keep the participant list, competition forms and prizes together at the registration desk so nothing is left behind when the venue opens.
Frequently asked questions
- How many drinks do I need for a curling match?
- Allow two to three drinks per person for the first hour, then one additional drink per person for each later hour. Add around 10% extra if transport is limited or the match is held in warm conditions.
- What equipment is needed for a curling match?
- You need curling stones, brooms, curling shoes, sliders, starting blocks and team bibs, plus scoreboards and game clocks for the match. Plan one complete playing setup for each active sheet, and confirm the venue’s inventory at least 7 days in advance.
- How much catering should I buy for a curling event?
- Buy one main food portion per participant, with about 10% extra for officials, volunteers and late additions. Provide one plate, cutlery set and glass per guest, and allow one coffee or tea cup for every person who is likely to use the hot-drinks station.
- When should I order curling match prizes and medals?
- Order standard prizes at least 7 days before the event and personalised medals or engraved items at least 14 days ahead. Keep a small reserve for unexpected winners or changes to the match format.