In a world inundated with technology and digital distractions, the allure of game nights in hotels is on the rise. More and more people are seeking out analog alternatives to Netflix binges and mindless scrolling on social media. According to Martine de Geus, director of marketing and communications at the Beaumont in London, there is a growing desire for people to disconnect from their devices and engage in real, face-to-face interactions.
Game nights offer a unique opportunity for guests to come together, socialize, and enjoy a sense of camaraderie over classic games like chess, backgammon, Rummikub, Scrabble, and cards. By hosting these events, hotels like the Beaumont and the Line Los Angeles are creating spaces where people can put down their phones, focus on the present moment, and truly connect with one another.
The Rise of Special Game Night Events
While monthly game nights are a staple at many hotels, some properties are taking it a step further by hosting special game night events. For example, the Beaumont recently featured a presentation by University of Oxford professor Marcus du Sautoy, author of “Around the World in 80 Games.” These exclusive events not only attract guests looking for a unique experience but also help hotels establish a deeper connection with the local community.
At the Line Los Angeles, the Love, Peace & Spades event has become a beloved social gathering for many locals in Koreatown. By offering a variety of classic Black family games like spades, bid whist, tonk, and Uno, the hotel is bringing people together in a meaningful way. According to Jennie Wright, brand experience manager for the Line Los Angeles, game nights like Love, Peace & Spades promote authentic relationships and meaningful interactions that go beyond the surface level.
While game nights may not be intended as singles mixers, they have been known to spark unexpected connections. Wright shared a heartwarming story of a couple who met at Love, Peace & Spades and recently got married after forming a bond over the game of spades. These stories of lasting relationships and friendships are a testament to the power of game nights to bring people together.
In Charleston, S.C., the Charleston Place has tapped into the resurgence of interest in traditional games like mahjong by hosting Mahjong Mondays at the Palmetto Café. In partnership with local mahjong instructors, the hotel offers guided American mahjong instruction paired with a glass of wine for players. This unique spin on a classic game has become a popular social activity for both locals and hotel guests alike.
In a world where digital connections often take precedence over real-life interactions, the revival of game nights in hotels offers a refreshing antidote to loneliness and disconnection. By providing a space for guests to engage in meaningful social interactions, build relationships, and create lasting memories, hotels are redefining the concept of hospitality. As the demand for analog experiences continues to grow, game nights may just be the key to unlocking the lost art of connection in the modern age.