Games Night IV
Five years ago we invited some friends over for the evening. Instead of just chatting and drinking, which is our usual get-together style, we played pub games. A music quiz, some darts, some table football. Lots of fun was had by all, and it was very competitive indeed. So much so that we still argue to this day about who the winner was that evening.
The following year was Covid. It was lockdown. There was no inviting friends anywhere. But a year after that, one of the first things we were able to do once the restrictions lifted was to invite friends over again and welcome some joy back. At that stage, we didn’t plan for Games Night to be an annual thing, it just felt like the right time for some fun and laughter again.
Games Night II was a bit bigger and a bit better that the first version. Beer Pong was a new addition and the old favourites were dusted off for a replay. By the end of the evening, we agreed that Games Night would be a solid entry into the calendar each year. So 2022 was the third iteration. Expectations were higher. It was utter carnage. The boys had all been to the pub beforehand and everyone was ruined by 9pm. We barely even got to the games. It's a shame - there were marshmallows. And chopsticks.
This past weekend it was time for Games Night IV.
The teams were announced a week out. Playful banter ensued about who’d ended up with who. When the game titles were released on arrival, there was some checking of the scoreboard to try and figure out what would be in store. Where to play the best player? Where to play the double points chip?
Whilst we were blessed with a beautiful day for the set up, in a surprising turn of events it was freezing cold by 7pm. Teams were wrapped in blankets doing the music round, so it was time to warm things thing up a bit! A crazy few games of darts (when I say crazy, I mean excruciating), some masterful balloon popping (hilarious) and a riotous fashion show to round it off. There are so many skills that I didn't know my friends had until this past weekend!
I love Games Night. I love planning it and dreaming up the daft games. I love decorating the garden. I love inviting people over to enjoy food and drink together. But most of all, I love to see and hear people laugh so hard it hurts. It's joyful! Less joyful mind, is getting up the next morning to tip the stale beer dregs away whilst nursing a hangover. Un-sticking crockery that seems to be welded to the worktop. Wondering why the garden is covered in tin foil? Ah, the fashion show.... ! But, finding things during the clear-up operation extends the joy and reminds you of the epic evening you just had.
There are no photos from Games Night IV. Well, that’s not strictly true. There are plenty of photos actually, and video. But if I shared on here or on any social media I’m pretty sure there’d be no more games night nor any more friends. Given that next year will be Games Night V and I very much want that to happen, there’ll be no sharing from me.
In a world where we all work too hard and have incredibly busy lives, Games Night is a few hours of pure, ridiculous fun, and an awesome way to start the weekend!
The pressure is now on to deliver in 2024. Bring on Games Night V.
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