How to Host Your Murder Mystery
Dinner Party
A Universal Guide for All Murder Mystery Kits
Welcome to the ultimate guide for hosting an unforgettable murder mystery dinner party! Whether you're a first-time host or a seasoned mystery master, this guide will walk you through every step of bringing your murder mystery kit to life.
1. What's in Your Kit
Your murder mystery kit contains everything you need to host a complete mystery experience. Here's what each component does:
1. Host Packet (READ THIS FIRST!)
Your master guide containing:
- Event Parameters Summary: Theme, setting, player count, difficulty level
- Event Timeline: When the murder occurs, investigation phases, and finale timing
- Setup Checklist: Props, decorations, music, and food/drink suggestions
- Host Scripts: Pre-written dramatic speeches for key moments
- Arrival greeting (sets the atmosphere)
- Murder announcement (reveals the crime)
- Interrogation Guidance: How to conduct questioning rounds
- Clue Release Schedule: When to distribute evidence
- Solution Overview: What to expect (don't read the solution yet!)
ACTION: Print this and read it completely before doing anything else. Mark important timing notes.
2. Character Packets (One per Player)
Each packet contains:
- Character Identity: Name, role at the event, personality archetype
- Objective: What this character is trying to accomplish
- Public Relationships: Known connections to other characters with backstories
- Personal Secret: A hidden fact they're keeping from others
- Alibi Information:
- What they'll claim they were doing during the murder
- Whether their alibi is true or false
- How it can be disproven (if false)
- Private Connections: Secret ties to the victim
ACTION: Print one packet per player. Keep them separated and confidential. Do NOT distribute until party begins.
3. Invitation Template
Contains:
- Event title and atmospheric description
- Dress code
- Arrival time window
- Guest list (character names and roles)
- Setting the mysterious mood
ACTION: Print or email to guests 1-2 weeks before the party. This gets them excited and gives them time to prepare costumes.
4. Clue Cards
Organized by timing:
- Crime Scene Clues: Available immediately when murder is announced
- Later Discovered Clues: Released after specific interrogation rounds
- Red Herrings: Misleading evidence that points to innocent suspects
Each clue card shows:
- Description of the evidence
- What it suggests
- Which characters it points to
ACTION: Print and cut out individual clue cards. Organize in envelopes by release timing ("Crime Scene," "After Round 1," "After Round 2," etc.)
5. Interrogation Round Cards
One card per questioning round containing:
- Round number
- Specific questions to ask
- Which players to target with each question
- Pacing guidance
ACTION: Print these cards and keep with your host materials. Use them to guide the investigation phase.
6. Solution Envelope (DO NOT OPEN YET!)
Contains:
- The Big Reveal Script: Dramatic announcement of the solution
- Who the murderer is and why
- How they did it: Method, means, opportunity
- Why others are innocent: Breakdown of each character's alibis and evidence clearing them
ACTION: Print this but DO NOT READ IT until the finale. Keep it sealed in an envelope. Reading it early ruins the suspense of hosting!
2. Timeline: Planning Your Event
2-4 Weeks Before
- Generate your kit on the website
- Download and save all PDFs
- Review the Host Packet thoroughly
- Set a party date and time
- Create guest list (match number of character packets)
1-2 Weeks Before
- Send invitations (physical or email)
- Print all materials
- Organize character packets and clue cards
- Review setup checklist and acquire props
- Plan menu based on suggestions
1 Week Before
- Confirm RSVPs
- Assign characters to guests (optional: let them choose on arrival)
- Shop for decorations and food
- Prepare music playlist
- Do a final read-through of host scripts
1 Day Before
- Set up decorations
- Prep any food that can be made ahead
- Organize all printed materials
- Set up interrogation space
- Review timeline one final time
Day Of
- Final decoration touches
- Prepare welcome drinks
- Set character packets at seats or in distribution area
- Review murder announcement script
- Take a deep breath—you've got this!
3. Pre-Party Preparation (1-2 Weeks Before)
Step 1: Download and Review Your Kit
- Download the ZIP file from your email link
- Extract all PDFs to a dedicated folder
- Read the Host Packet completely (this is non-negotiable!)
- Understand the mystery structure:
- Who the victim is
- When the murder occurs
- What the investigation involves
- How many interrogation rounds there are
Step 2: Print All Materials
| Component |
Quantity |
Tips |
| Host Packet |
1 copy |
Staple/bind together, highlight timing notes, keep separate from player materials |
| Character Packets |
1 per player (4-12) |
Check player count, consider printing alternates, staple each packet |
| Invitation |
1 per guest |
Can email instead of printing, include RSVP info |
| Clue Cards |
Multiple sets |
Print on cardstock if possible, cut out individual cards |
| Interrogation Cards |
1 set |
Keep with host materials, print clearly |
| Solution Envelope |
1 copy |
Print and IMMEDIATELY seal in envelope marked "DO NOT OPEN" |
Step 3: Organize Clue Cards
Create an organization system:
- Get envelopes or small bags (one per release timing)
- Label clearly:
- "Crime Scene Clues" (distribute immediately after murder announcement)
- "After Round 1" (distribute after first interrogation round)
- "After Round 2" (distribute after second round)
- And so on...
- Place corresponding clue cards in each envelope
- Keep envelopes in order in your host area
Pro Tip: Paperclip each envelope to your Host Packet timeline so you know exactly when to release each set.
Step 4: Review the Setup Checklist
Your Host Packet includes suggestions for:
Decorations
- Theme-appropriate décor (Victorian mansion: candelabras; Sci-Fi: LED lights)
- Table settings and centerpieces
- Atmospheric lighting
- Crime scene markers or tape (for after the murder)
Music
- Era-appropriate playlist
- Volume considerations (background, not overwhelming)
- Dramatic music for murder announcement
Food & Drink
- Suggested menu items matching the theme
- Cocktails or beverages fitting the era
- Appetizers for mingling phase
- Main course timing
- Dessert for finale
Props
- Any physical items mentioned in clues
- Costume suggestions for the host
- Optional: name cards for character seating
ACTION: Make a shopping list based on these suggestions. You don't need everything, but thoughtful touches enhance immersion.
4. One Week Before: Guest Communications
Sending Invitations
Email Template Example:
Subject: You're Invited to a Murder Mystery Dinner Party!
Dear [Guest Name],
You are cordially invited to [Event Title from your invitation PDF]
Date: [Your party date]
Time: [Start time - End time]
Location: [Your address]
Dress Code: [From invitation - e.g., "1920s formal attire" or "Casual modern"]
You will be assigned a character to play for the evening. Come prepared to solve a mysterious murder!
RSVP by [Date] to [Your contact method]
See you at the scene of the crime!
Assigning Characters (Two Approaches)
Option 1: Pre-Assign Characters
- Review character packets
- Match personalities to guests who might enjoy them
- Email each guest their character name and brief description
- Keeps packet contents secret until party
- Good for shy groups who want preparation time
Option 2: Assign at Party
- Let guests choose randomly or by interest on arrival
- More spontaneous and fun
- Works well for outgoing groups
- Ensures everyone gets a character they're excited about
5. Day Before: Final Setup
Decoration Examples by Theme
| Theme |
Decoration Ideas |
| Victorian Mansion |
Dim lighting, candles (LED for safety), rich fabrics, vintage items, classical music |
| 1920s Speakeasy |
Jazz music, art deco elements, feather boas, pearls, prohibition-era cocktails |
| Modern Corporate |
Conference room setup, nameplate cards, office props, professional atmosphere |
| Sci-Fi Space Station |
LED lights (blue/purple), futuristic decorations, metallic tablecloths, electronic music |
Food Preparation
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep appetizers that can be refrigerated
- Set up beverage station
- Prepare desserts
- Plan easy main course (buffet style recommended)
- Remember: hosting the mystery is priority—keep food simple
Create Your "Host Command Center"
- Host Packet (highlighted and annotated)
- Clue card envelopes (in release order)
- Interrogation round cards
- Sealed solution envelope
- Timer or watch
- Notepad for tracking player theories
- Character packet stack (if not pre-distributed)
6. Day of Party: Setup Checklist
2 Hours Before Guests Arrive
- Final decoration adjustments
- Set tables with character name cards (if using)
- Test music playlist
- Prepare welcome drinks
- Set out appetizers or have ready to serve
- Review murder announcement script
- Organize all printed materials
- Set up interrogation area (comfortable seating where everyone can see each other)
1 Hour Before
- Get into costume (if hosting in character)
- Do final walkthrough
- Check lighting and ambiance
- Put solution envelope somewhere visible but sealed
- Review event timeline
- Relax and get into character!
7. Running the Party: Step-by-Step
Phase 1: Arrival & Mingling (30-45 minutes)
Your Role:
- Welcome guests using your Host Script arrival greeting
- Distribute character packets
- Explain basic rules:
- "Read your packet—it contains your character information"
- "You may share public relationships but keep your secret hidden"
- "A murder will occur soon—pay attention to everyone!"
- "Your goal is to solve the mystery OR get away with murder"
- Circulate and facilitate introductions
- Watch the clock—announce murder at designated time
Guest Activity:
- Reading character packets
- Getting into character
- Introducing themselves using character names
- Discovering public relationships
- Beginning to role-play
Atmosphere Tips: Play appropriate background music, keep energy high, encourage interaction: "Have you met [Character Name] yet?"
Phase 2: Murder Announcement (5 minutes)
THIS IS A KEY MOMENT—MAKE IT DRAMATIC!
Steps:
- Get everyone's attention (ring a bell, dim lights, stop music)
- Read your murder announcement script from the Host Packet
- Speak clearly and dramatically
- Include: Who was murdered, where, how they were found
- Build suspense and shock
- Distribute crime scene clues to all players
- Set the stakes:
- "The murderer is in this room"
- "It's up to you to find them before the authorities arrive"
Phase 3: Investigation Rounds (1-2 hours)
Round 1: First Interrogation
Your Role:
- Read questions from Round 1 Interrogation Card
- Direct questions to specific players as indicated
- Allow players to respond in character
- Encourage cross-questioning
- Take notes on responses
Timing: Spend 20-30 minutes on first round. Ensure everyone gets questioned. Keep energy high and pace moving.
After Round 1:
- Call a break (5-10 minutes)
- Distribute "After Round 1" clue cards
- Optional: Serve main course or additional appetizers
- Let players discuss new clues privately
Managing the Investigation
If players are struggling:
- Hint at overlooked clues: "Has anyone examined the [clue] closely?"
- Encourage collaboration: "Maybe someone else noticed something about that character?"
- Review alibis together
If they're solving too quickly:
- Focus on red herrings: "But what about this evidence?"
- Play devil's advocate
- Build suspense: Don't confirm theories yet
Phase 4: Final Accusations (15-20 minutes)
When investigation time ends:
- Call everyone together
- Announce: "It's time for final accusations"
- Give each player a chance to state:
- Who they think the murderer is
- Why they believe this
- What evidence supports their theory
- Optional: Hold a vote
Building Tension: Play dramatic music, slow down your speech, make eye contact, let silence hang for a moment
8. The Big Reveal: Solving the Mystery
THIS IS THE CLIMACTIC MOMENT!
Opening the Solution Envelope
- Hold up the sealed solution envelope
- Build suspense: "The truth has been sealed since the beginning..."
- Open it slowly and deliberately
- Read "The Big Reveal" script from the solution
- Use a dramatic voice
- Pause for effect
- Watch players' reactions
Presenting the Solution
| Step |
What to Present |
| 1. Announce Murderer |
"[Character Name] is the murderer!" Allow gasps and reactions. |
| 2. Explain "The Act" |
How the murder was committed, what method was used, when it occurred |
| 3. Reveal Motive |
Why the murderer did it, connections to victim, what they stood to gain |
| 4. Detail Means & Opportunity |
What tools/knowledge they had, when they could commit crime, unique capability |
| 5. Address Innocents |
Explain why each non-murderer is innocent (alibis, evidence, lack of means) |
| 6. Explain Red Herrings |
If applicable, explain misleading clues and why they were deceptive |
Celebrating the Winner(s)
Recognize players who:
- Correctly identified the murderer
- Had the best detective work
- Best played their character
- Most entertaining performance
- Best costume (if applicable)
9. Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue |
Solutions |
| Players aren't getting into character |
• Model enthusiasm—stay in character yourself
• Ask leading questions
• Encourage costumes
• Praise good role-playing
|
| Someone solved it too early |
• Don't confirm yet—play coy
• Introduce red herrings
• Keep other theories in play
• Continue drama until scheduled reveal
|
| No one can figure it out |
• Review critical clues together
• Ask leading questions
• Release additional hint
• Eliminate obviously innocent suspects
|
| Investigation stalled |
• Review all clues together
• Summarize alibis visually
• Ask players to share theories
• Release new clue early
|
| Guest can't attend last minute |
• Assign character to another guest (play two roles)
• Host can play character minimally
• Use alternate/backup character
• Say character "couldn't make it"
|
10. Tips for an Amazing Experience
For First-Time Hosts
Start Simple:
- Choose easier difficulty level
- Smaller player count (4-6 people)
- Familiar theme (mansion, hotel)
- Lighter tone (comedic vs. dark noir)
Prepare Thoroughly:
- Read Host Packet multiple times
- Practice murder announcement script aloud
- Organize materials clearly
- Have a friend help as co-host if nervous
Creating Immersion
Set the Mood:
- Appropriate lighting (dim, atmospheric)
- Period-accurate music
- Themed decorations
- Costume encouragement
Pacing Management
| Strategy |
How to Implement |
| Keep Energy High |
Watch for lulls, introduce new clues, manage time per round |
| Don't Rush |
Allow time for character development, let players explore theories |
| Watch the Clock |
Most parties run 3-4 hours total, adjust if guests engaged or losing steam |
Quick Reference: Host's Cheat Sheet
BEFORE PARTY: Read Host Packet → Print all materials → Organize clue cards by timing → Seal solution envelope → Set up space
ARRIVAL (30-45 min): Greet guests → Distribute character packets → Explain rules → Facilitate mingling
MURDER (5 min): Announce dramatically → Distribute crime scene clues → Set investigation stakes
INVESTIGATION (1-2 hours): Round 1: Ask questions, take notes → Break: Release Round 1 clues → Round 2+: Repeat → Manage pacing
ACCUSATIONS (15 min): Each player states theory → Optional vote → Build suspense
REVEAL (10-15 min): Open solution envelope → Read reveal script → Explain solution → Answer questions
POST-GAME (30+ min): Share secrets → Discuss experience → Serve dessert → Celebrate!
Final Master Checklist: Are You Ready?
- Downloaded and saved all kit PDFs
- Read Host Packet completely
- Printed all materials (host, character, clues, solution)
- Organized clue cards by release timing
- Sealed solution envelope without reading
- Sent invitations and received RSVPs
- Planned menu and purchased food/drinks
- Acquired decorations and props
- Prepared music playlist
- Set up interrogation/party space
- Practiced murder announcement script
- Created host command center with all materials
- Prepared for guest arrival (character packets ready)
- Reviewed event timeline
- Ready to have an amazing time!
YOU'RE READY TO HOST!
The murder mystery kit provides the framework, but you bring the magic as the host. Your energy, enthusiasm, and guidance will create an unforgettable experience for your guests.