Diwali is just around the corner, all our friends are returning home to celebrate, isn’t it the best time of the year? Totally!

But, if you are the one hosting this year’s Diwali party, the pressure of having the perfect one must be on you. The tables are set, drinks are ready, and cards are in their place. You can have the same old Bingo or Cards party, but here are some of the most amazing and fun Diwali party game ideas that will make this Diwali the most memorable one. Let’s quickly have a look at some of the most interesting games you can play with your friends and family:

Card Games

1. Teen Patti

Teen Patti, also known as Indian Poker, is the ultimate Diwali card game that adds a burst of excitement to any celebration. This game, which thrives on luck, strategy, and a bit of bluffing, will have everyone on the edge of their seats. The joy of Teen Patti lies in its unpredictability—one moment, you might think you’re losing, and the next, you could win the entire pot!

How to Play:

• Setup: Each player antes a small amount to form the pot.
• Dealing: Every player is dealt three cards face down.
• Betting: Players take turns betting, with the option to see their cards or play blind. The betting continues in rounds.
• Showdown: The game continues until all but one player have folded, or until the pot is called. The player with the best hand wins the pot.

Pro Tip: Bluffing is key! Keep your cool, watch your opponents’ reactions, and don’t reveal your hand too early.

2. Rummy

Rummy is a timeless classic that is perfect for Diwali gatherings, combining skill and strategy with a dash of luck. It’s a game that brings out the inner strategist in everyone, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a mental challenge. The objective is to form sets and sequences, keeping everyone engaged and on their toes.

How to Play:

• Setup: Each player is dealt 13 cards.
• Objective: Form valid sets (three or four of the same rank) and sequences (three or more consecutive cards of the same suit).
• Gameplay: Draw a card from the deck or discard pile, then discard a card to maintain 13 cards in hand.
• Declaration: When a player forms all valid sets and sequences, they declare and show their hand. The first player to do so wins.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the discard pile to know what your opponents are collecting. A little observation can go a long way.

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3. Bluff

Bluff, also known as Cheat or I Doubt It, is the perfect game for those who love to deceive and laugh. It’s a game of cunning and boldness, where the ability to lie convincingly can make you the champion. As players try to out-bluff each other, the room fills with laughter and suspicion, making it a hit at any Diwali party.

How to Play:

• Setup: Deal all cards to the players.
• Objective: Get rid of all your cards.
• Gameplay: On their turn, a player places one or more cards face down and declares them as a certain rank (e.g., two Aces). Other players can challenge this declaration by saying “Bluff” or “I doubt it.”
• Showdown: If challenged, the player must reveal the cards. If they were bluffing, they pick up the entire pile; if not, the challenger picks up the pile. The game continues until one player has no cards left.

Pro Tip: The best bluffs mix truth with lies. Play some real cards and some bluffs to keep your opponents guessing.

4. Poker

Poker is a game that brings a touch of sophistication and serious fun to your Diwali festivities. Whether you’re a fan of Texas Hold’em or Omaha, Poker offers an engaging mix of strategy, psychology, and luck. Perfect for seasoned players and beginners alike, it adds a thrilling dimension to your celebrations.

How to Play:

• Setup: Players are dealt two private cards (hole cards) and then five community cards are dealt face up.
• Betting: Players make bets in rounds based on their hands. They can fold, call, or raise.
• Objective: Form the best five-card hand using any combination of the hole cards and community cards.
• Showdown: After the final betting round, the remaining players reveal their cards, and the best hand wins the pot.

Pro Tip: Keep a poker face! Don’t let your expressions give away your hand.

5. Andar Bahar

Andar Bahar is a fast-paced and straightforward game that’s a hit at Diwali parties. It’s a game of pure chance, where players bet on where a matching card will appear. The simplicity of the game ensures that everyone can join in on the fun, making it a crowd favorite.

How to Play:

• Setup: A single card is placed face up in the center of the table.
• Objective: Bet on whether a matching card will appear on the left (Andar) or right (Bahar) of the center card.
• Gameplay: The dealer deals one card to Andar and one to Bahar alternately until a matching card is found.
• Outcome: Players who bet on the correct side win.

Pro Tip: Go with your gut! Sometimes, luck is all you need.

6. Satte Pe Satta

Satte Pe Satta, or Seven on Seven, is a lively and engaging game where players must play cards in sequence starting from 7. The game’s simplicity and speed make it perfect for keeping the energy high at your Diwali gathering.

How to Play:

• Setup: Each player is dealt an equal number of cards.
• Objective: Play cards in sequence starting from 7, either in ascending or descending order.
• Gameplay: Players take turns playing cards. If a player can’t play a card, they pass.
• Winning: The first player to get rid of all their cards wins.

Pro Tip: Hold onto your high and low cards until you can play them strategically.

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7. Judgement

Judgement, also known as “Judgement Trump” or “Judgement Rummy,” is a game of prediction and strategy. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of competition and like to predict their success. The challenge of accurately predicting the number of tricks you’ll take adds an exciting twist to your Diwali game night.

How to Play:

• Setup: Deal a set number of cards to each player.
• Objective: Predict the number of tricks you will take.
• Gameplay: Players take turns playing cards, trying to win tricks based on their predictions.
• Scoring: Points are awarded for correctly predicting the number of tricks taken.

Pro Tip: Be conservative with your predictions. It’s better to under-promise and over-deliver.

8. Mendicot

Mendicot is a traditional Indian card game that is perfect for Diwali. The game involves teamwork and strategy, making it a fun and engaging choice for any gathering. The aim is to win as many hands as possible, and it’s usually played with partners.

How to Play:

• Setup: Four players form two teams.
• Objective: Win the maximum number of hands.
• Gameplay: Players take turns playing cards, with the highest card of the leading suit winning the hand.
• Winning: The team that wins the most hands wins the game.

Pro Tip: Communicate subtly with your partner to play strategically.

9. Bridge

Bridge is a sophisticated card game that requires good communication and strategy. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a challenging and intellectual game. Playing Bridge at your Diwali party can add a touch of class and keep everyone deeply engaged.

How to Play:

• Setup: Four players form two teams.
• Objective: Score points by making successful bids and winning tricks.
• Gameplay: Players take turns bidding on the number of tricks they think they can take, then play to fulfill their bid.
• Winning: The team with the most points after several rounds wins.

Pro Tip: Develop a good partnership with your teammate. Communication is key.

10. Court Piece

Court Piece, also known as “Rang,” is a trick-taking card game that’s similar to Whist. It’s a traditional game that is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia to your Diwali celebration. With its simple rules and engaging gameplay, it’s sure to be a hit.

How to Play:

• Setup: Four players form two teams.
• Objective: Win as many tricks as possible.
• Gameplay: Players take turns playing cards, with the highest card of the leading suit winning the trick.
• Winning: The team that wins the most tricks wins the game.

Pro Tip: Pay attention to the cards played and plan your strategy accordingly.

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Non-Card Games

Obviously, not everyone knows how to play cards and you wanna be a good host, so here is a list of fun Diwali games you can play with your friends, where you do not need cards:

11. Antakshari

Antakshari is a classic game that brings music and memories together. It’s a favorite at Indian gatherings, where players sing songs based on the last letter of the previous song. This game is perfect for Diwali parties as it fills the room with joy, laughter, and nostalgia.

How to Play:

• Setup: Divide players into two teams.
• Starting: One team starts by singing a song.
• Gameplay: The next team must sing a song starting with the last letter of the previous song.
• Winning: The game continues until one team can’t come up with a song. The other team wins.

Pro Tip: Have a diverse playlist ready! Knowing songs from different eras and genres can be a game-changer.

12. Tambola (Housie)

Tambola, also known as Housie, is a game of luck that’s similar to Bingo. It’s a great way to keep the energy high and everyone engaged at your Diwali party. With the thrill of waiting for your numbers to be called, it’s sure to be a hit.

How to Play:

• Setup: Each player gets a ticket with random numbers.
• Calling: A caller announces random numbers one by one.
• Gameplay: Players mark off the numbers on their tickets.
• Winning: Prizes can be awarded for different patterns like a full house, lines, or corners.

Pro Tip: Have exciting prizes ready! The anticipation of winning keeps the game thrilling.

13. Musical Chairs

Musical Chairs is a lively and energetic game that is perfect for all ages. It’s a great way to get everyone moving and laughing, making it an ideal addition to your Diwali celebrations.

How to Play:

• Setup: Arrange chairs in a circle, one less than the number of players.
• Music: Play upbeat music while players walk around the chairs.
• Gameplay: When the music stops, players must find a chair to sit on. The one left standing is out.
• Winning: Remove a chair each round until one player remains seated.

Pro Tip: Use lively and festive music to keep the energy high and the game exciting.

14. Dumb Charades

Dumb Charades is a fun and hilarious game that involves acting out phrases or movie titles without speaking. It’s a great way to bring out everyone’s creativity and acting skills, ensuring a lot of laughter and fun.

How to Play:

• Setup: Divide players into two teams.
• Selecting: One player from a team picks a movie or phrase to act out.
• Gameplay: The player acts out the selected phrase while their team guesses.
• Winning: Points are awarded for correct guesses within a time limit. The team with the most points wins.

Pro Tip: Use a mix of easy and challenging phrases to keep the game interesting.

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15. Passing the Parcel

Passing the Parcel is a fun game that brings a lot of excitement and anticipation. It’s perfect for Diwali parties as it involves everyone and keeps the energy high.

How to Play:

• Setup: Wrap a parcel in multiple layers with a small gift or note in each layer.
• Music: Players sit in a circle and pass the parcel while music plays.
• Gameplay: When the music stops, the player holding the parcel unwraps one layer.
• Winning: The game continues until the last layer is unwrapped, revealing the final prize.

Pro Tip: Include fun tasks or dares in some layers to make the game more entertaining.

16. Treasure Hunt

Treasure Hunt is an adventurous game that adds a sense of excitement and exploration to your Diwali party. It’s great for both kids and adults, as everyone loves the thrill of finding hidden treasures.

How to Play:

• Setup: Hide clues and small prizes around the house or garden.
• Clues: Create a series of clues that lead from one location to another.
• Gameplay: Players or teams follow the clues to find the final treasure.
• Winning: The first player or team to find the treasure wins.

Pro Tip: Make the clues challenging but solvable. The journey should be as fun as finding the treasure.

17. Tug of War

Tug of War is a simple yet powerful game that’s perfect for large groups. It’s all about strength and teamwork, making it a great choice for outdoor Diwali parties.

How to Play:

• Setup: Divide players into two teams and give each team one end of a sturdy rope.
• Marking: Place a marker in the middle of the rope.
• Gameplay: On the signal, both teams pull the rope in opposite directions.
• Winning: The team that pulls the marker past a designated point wins.

Pro Tip: Ensure everyone’s safety by playing on a soft surface like grass.

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18. Pictionary

Pictionary is a fantastic game for those who love to draw and guess. It’s a creative and interactive game that brings a lot of laughter and fun, making it a perfect addition to your Diwali party.

How to Play:

• Setup: Divide players into teams and give each team a drawing board and markers.
• Drawing: One player draws a word or phrase while their team guesses.
• Gameplay: Teams take turns drawing and guessing within a time limit.
• Winning: Points are awarded for correct guesses. The team with the most points wins.

Pro Tip: Include festive-themed words to keep the Diwali spirit alive.

19. Lemon and Spoon Race

Lemon and Spoon Race is a fun and competitive game that’s perfect for both kids and adults. It’s all about balance and speed, making it an exciting addition to any Diwali celebration.

How to Play:

• Setup: Each player gets a spoon and a lemon.
• Race: Players must hold the spoon with the lemon in their mouth and race to the finish line.
• Gameplay: If the lemon falls, the player must pick it up and continue from where it fell.
• Winning: The first player to reach the finish line without dropping the lemon wins.

Pro Tip: Make the course interesting with small obstacles for added fun.

20. Sack Race

Sack Race is a classic outdoor game that brings a lot of laughter and fun. It’s perfect for adding a bit of competitive spirit to your Diwali celebrations.

How to Play:

• Setup: Provide each player with a large sack.
• Race: Players stand inside the sacks and hop towards the finish line.
• Gameplay: The first player to reach the finish line wins.
• Winning: The first player to cross the finish line wins.

Pro Tip: Ensure the race area is free of sharp objects to avoid injuries.

Drinking Games

Now, here is a list of games for those friends who are here to drink their happiness in! Whether you are a heavy drinker or a light one, these games are sure to increase comraderie and create memories that will last a lifetime.

21. Kings

Kings is a popular drinking game that’s perfect for any party. It’s a fun way to get everyone involved, with each card drawn from a deck leading to a different challenge or rule. This game is sure to bring lots of laughter and excitement to your Diwali celebration.

How to Play:

• Setup: Spread a deck of cards in a circle around a large cup (the King’s Cup).
• Gameplay: Players take turns drawing cards and following the corresponding rules:
• 2: You – The player who drew the card picks someone to drink.
• 3: Me – The player who drew the card drinks.
• 4: Floor – Everyone touches the floor, last one to do so drinks.
• 5: Guys – All men drink.
• 6: Chicks – All women drink.
• 7: Heaven – Everyone points up, last one to do so drinks.
• 8: Mate – Pick a drinking buddy who drinks whenever you drink.
• 9: Rhyme – Say a word, and everyone takes turns saying a word that rhymes with it. The first to fail drinks.
• 10: Categories – Pick a category (e.g., types of cocktails), and everyone takes turns naming something in that category. The first to fail drinks.
• Jack: Make a rule – Create a rule that everyone must follow.
• Queen: Question master – The player can ask questions, and anyone who answers must drink.
• King: Pour – Pour some of your drink into the King’s Cup. The last player to draw a King drinks the entire cup.

Pro Tip: Use a stylish cocktail shaker to mix drinks for the King’s Cup. It adds a touch of elegance to the game.

22. Beer Pong

Beer Pong is a classic drinking game that combines skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. It’s perfect for adding some competitive fun to your Diwali party.

How to Play:

• Setup: Arrange 10 cups in a pyramid shape at each end of a long table. Fill the cups with beer.
• Teams: Divide players into two teams.
• Gameplay: Teams take turns throwing ping pong balls into the opponent’s cups. When a ball lands in a cup, the opposing team drinks the beer in that cup and removes it.
• Winning: The first team to eliminate all of the opponent’s cups wins.

Pro Tip: Keep an ice bucket nearby to chill your drinks and keep them refreshing throughout the game.

23. Flip Cup

Flip Cup is a fast-paced team game that’s perfect for getting everyone involved. It’s all about speed and coordination, making it a thrilling addition to your Diwali celebrations.

How to Play:

• Setup: Divide players into two teams and line up opposite each other along a table.
• Cups: Each player has a cup filled with a drink.
• Gameplay: Players must drink their drink, place the cup upside down on the edge of the table, and flip it so it lands upright. The next player on the team can only start once the previous player has successfully flipped their cup.
• Winning: The first team to have all members flip their cups wins.

24. Drunk Jenga

Drunk Jenga is a twist on the classic game, with each block containing a drinking challenge or rule. It’s a great way to add some excitement and unpredictability to your Diwali party.

How to Play:

• Setup: Write different challenges or rules on Jenga blocks.
• Gameplay: Players take turns removing a block and following the instructions written on it. Examples of challenges include:
• Take a shot
• Make a rule
• Everyone drinks
• Sing a song
• Winning: The game continues until the tower falls. The player who causes the tower to fall must finish their drink.

Pro Tip: Use a stylish cocktail shaker to mix drinks for the challenges. It adds an elegant touch to the game.

25. Never Have I Ever

Never Have I Ever is a revealing and fun game that’s perfect for getting to know each other better. It’s a great icebreaker and guarantees lots of laughter.

How to Play:

• Setup: Players sit in a circle with their drinks.
• Gameplay: One player starts by saying, “Never have I ever…” followed by something they haven’t done (e.g., “Never have I ever gone skydiving”).
• Drinking: Anyone who has done the stated activity must take a drink.
• Winning: The game continues until everyone has had a turn or until players decide to stop.

Pro Tip: Have a well-stocked ice bucket nearby to keep drinks cold and refreshing.

26. Quarters

Quarters is a simple but challenging game that involves bouncing a quarter off a table into a cup. It’s a great way to test your skills and have some fun.

How to Play:

• Setup: Place a cup in the center of the table.
• Gameplay: Players take turns trying to bounce a quarter off the table and into the cup.
• Drinking: If a player succeeds, they can choose someone to drink. If they miss, they drink.
• Winning: The game continues until players decide to stop.

Pro Tip: Use a stylish cocktail set to mix and serve drinks, adding a touch of class to the game.

27. Drunk Waiter

Drunk Waiter is a hilarious game that tests your balance and coordination. It’s perfect for outdoor Diwali parties and guarantees lots of laughs.

How to Play:

• Setup: Fill a tray with cups of drink.
• Gameplay: Players take turns carrying the tray a certain distance without spilling.
• Challenge: Add obstacles or require players to spin around before walking to make it more challenging.
• Winning: The player who completes the course with the least spillage wins.

Pro Tip: Use colorful and elegant cocktail sets to make the game more festive.

28. Drunk Tic-Tac-Toe

Drunk Tic-Tac-Toe is a fun twist on the classic game. It’s easy to set up and play, making it perfect for any Diwali party.

How to Play:

• Setup: Draw a Tic-Tac-Toe grid on a large surface.
• Gameplay: Players take turns placing their mark (X or O) in a square. If a player gets three in a row, the opponent drinks.
• Winning: The first player to get three in a row wins, and the loser drinks.

Pro Tip: Keep a cocktail shaker handy to mix drinks for the losers, adding a touch of elegance to the game.

29. High-Low

High-Low is a simple yet exciting game that’s all about guessing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of risk and reward.

How to Play:

• Setup: Players sit in a circle with their drinks.
• Gameplay: One player draws a card and guesses whether the next card will be higher or lower.
• Drinking: If they guess correctly, they pass the deck to the next player. If they guess wrong, they drink.
• Winning: The game continues until players decide to stop.

Pro Tip: Use a stylish cocktail shaker to mix drinks, making the game more festive and enjoyable.

30. Shot Roulette

Shot Roulette is an exciting and unpredictable game that’s perfect for adding some thrill to your Diwali party. It’s a game of chance that keeps everyone on their toes.

How to Play:

• Setup: Fill shot glasses with various drinks (some strong, some mild) and place them in a circle.
• Gameplay: Players take turns spinning a wheel or using a spinner app to determine which shot to take.
• Drinking: The player drinks the shot indicated by the spinner.
• Winning: The game continues until players decide to stop.

Pro Tip: Keep an ice bucket nearby to keep the shots chilled and refreshing.

These drinking games are sure to bring a lot of fun and excitement to your Diwali celebrations, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable time for everyone. Cheers!

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Planning Your Diwali Party Games

When planning your Diwali party, consider these tips to ensure everyone has a blast:

• Venue: Choose a space large enough for the number of guests and activities planned.
• Schedule: Create a timeline for games, meals, and traditional rituals to keep the party flowing smoothly.
• Supplies: Gather all necessary supplies, including game materials, prizes, and decorations.
• Safety: Ensure games are safe for all ages and provide supervision when needed.
• Variety: Offer a mix of active games, mental challenges, and creative activities to cater to different interests.

These Diwali party games promise to add excitement, laughter, and cultural richness to your celebration. Whether you’re honoring traditions or creating new ones, these activities are perfect for bringing family and friends together in the spirit of Diwali.