Whether you want to improve your reading habits or find a new hobby, a book club can be the answer. Shared moments between a group of people over a story with thrilling twists have their excitement. But throwing your own soiree dedicated to it can be even better. Fortunately, learning how to host a book club party—a real one with discussions and testimonies—isn’t as hard as you might think. Even if you’ve never been part of a book club before, you can still throw together a fabulous event.

Takeaways New Hide ▲

Set up drinks station

with cocktails, coffee,

and themed refreshments

Pick a creative theme

and use book-inspired

decor to set mood

Plan potluck-style menu

with finger foods or

dishes matching story

Use discussion guides

or themed games to

keep conversations lively

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Book club parties are a great way to dive into reading and engage with friends. The book of choice is essential, but you don’t want to miss out on the party. Unlike an intimate dinner party, book club parties can be a little over the top. Not all book clubs are the same; some favor a book-centric approach, while others focus on a range of topics. However, one thing is for certain: it’s bound to be an evening filled with food, drinks, desserts, coffee, and good conversation. If you’re thinking about hosting a book club party, we’ve gathered five tips to ensure its success.

Choose a Theme

Regardless of the type of party you’re hosting, a theme can make or break the event. While it’s true that not every party needs a theme, book clubs are all about exploring creative themes and getting into the spirit of the story. That said, it’s up to you how far you want to go. If you’re hosting an enthusiastic group, an over-the-top theme with complementing bites, beverages, and designs can help bring the story to life. Subtler themes can be just as beneficial to encourage guests to chat about the book while keeping the event sophisticated and open for other discussion topics.

Plan the Menu

Food is a necessity for any party, whether you’re hosting a small crowd or a large group of people. The good news is you don’t have to do all the cooking yourself. Most book club parties opt for a potluck-style meal, where guests contribute with a dish, appetizer, or side to share during the main event. Creating a menu ahead of time keeps everyone aligned so the meal is cohesive and, yes, on theme.

Prep Your Dish Ahead of Time

If you’re a seasoned hostess, you know the benefit this step brings. Themed parties have a lot of moving parts; it’s best to get the cooking out of the way before the event begins. When planning your menu, think about dishes that can be prepared in a slow cooker or in a roasting pan, giving you ample time to set up before guests arrive. The last thing you want is to be scrambling in the kitchen when discussions are underway and the wine is being poured.

Set Up a Beverage Station

Similar to the above step, a beverage station allows you to enjoy the party without worry. Since this isn’t a dinner party, guests should be allowed to move freely in the space and feel comfortable as the book club events are underway. Consider setting up a small station with drinks, mocktails, water, and coffee or tea in the area of your home where the party will be held.

Set the Tone

Setting the tone for the party is a great way to ensure its success. If your group enjoys discussing the details of each chapter and delving into the characters, discussion cards can help keep the conversation flowing. However, if your group is gathering to catch up and discuss more than the book, games can be a better option to keep the mood light and easy-going.