Unique, immersive experience: Guests don’t just attend—they become part of the action. Each person steps into a character’s shoes, dressing the part, sleuthing for clues, and becoming part of the unfolding drama. It transforms a simple evening into an interactive spectacle.
Inclusive fun: Our mysteries can be tailored to a wide variety of guests, ensuring everyone—whether outgoing or shy—has a role to play and a chance to shine.
Boosts donations naturally: Because guests are engaged and invested in the event, they are more willing to donate, participate in raffles, and bid on silent auction items.
Memorable branding: Instead of a standard gala dinner, your fundraiser becomes a story that guests will talk about for years to come.
Begin by deciding exactly how much you hope to raise. Map out your event budget, considering costs like venue rental, food, decor, and licensing. Then set your ticket prices and fundraising activities accordingly to meet (or exceed!) your goal.
Pro Tip: While Night of Mystery parties are intended for personal use, if you’re planning a fundraiser for a nonprofit, we offer a specialized business license to keep everything above board, and at a discounted price from our business and commercial customers!
Night of Mystery offers over 30 downloadable games covering every vibe imaginable—from roaring ’20s gangsters in Murder at the Juice Joint to creepy chills with Night of the Living Dead.
Pro Tip: Match your theme to your organization’s mission or your guests’ interests for maximum engagement.
Imagine guests arriving in 1920s flapper dresses and zoot suits, a jazz band playing softly, and vintage posters hanging from the walls—the atmosphere alone will transport them into the mystery!
Your venue sets the stage for the mystery. Look for spaces that allow for mingling and “secret” conversations—perfect for guests to swap clues. Popular options include community centers, historic mansions, ballrooms, or even private gardens for a truly magical night.
Ensure your venue offers:
Choose a date at least 8-12 weeks in advance to allow for marketing, ticket sales, and guest costume preparation. Draft a basic event schedule including welcome mingling, mystery introduction, gameplay, fundraising activities, and the big reveal.
All Night of Mystery kits come with:
Note: For nonprofit fundraisers, purchase our business license to cover your event properly!
Set tiered ticket pricing if you want to offer premium experiences (VIP seating, bonus clues, etc.). Platforms like Eventbrite or direct website sales make transactions simple. Make sure to state that tickets include entry into a unique, themed mystery adventure!
Create excitement well before the big night!
Consider crafting character teaser videos or “mystery clues” to drop weekly to build anticipation.
Encourage full immersion!
Bonus Tip: Our kits often include suggestions to seamlessly blend your decor with the mystery’s world.
Bonus Tip 2: Consider asking local caterers to donate food or provide it at a discount in exchange for advertising sponsorship of your event.
Assign volunteers to key roles such as welcoming guests, explaining the rules, and facilitating clue distribution. Set up your mystery zones and “secret meeting” areas for characters to scheme and trade information.
Print multiple copies of important materials, such as the news piece included in the mystery materials, and designate a “Mystery HQ” station where guests can get help if they feel lost.
Set the tone right away by welcoming guests in character. Keep the energy high with well-timed reveals and clue announcements. Remember—your job is to keep the story moving while making sure everyone feels included and involved.
Capture the fun with candid photos and videos—and don’t forget to spotlight your fundraising goals throughout the evening!
Every activity should tie back into your cause, reminding guests they’re part of something bigger while having fun.
One nonprofit used Night of Mystery’s “Murder at the Juice Joint” to host an unforgettable 1920s-themed gala. They transformed their venue into a hidden speakeasy, complete with a jazz trio, mocktails served in coffee mugs, and “bribe stations” where guests could purchase extra clues.
Results: Over $15,000 raised in one night!
To recreate this: Choose “Murder at the Juice Joint,” rent a venue with dark wood and vintage accents, encourage costumes, and serve prohibition-style cocktails.
Night of Mystery kits can handle groups from 8 to 80+, and some kits can be expanded even further with our add-on packs.
Absolutely! Many groups add their nonprofit’s logo to invitations or incorporate mission-driven elements into the script.
No worries! Our kits are easy to follow, and the host guide walks you through running an event that’s beginner-friendly.
Yes, you’ll need a business license if you’re hosting for a charitable organization. Public events require a separate license as well.
Throwing a murder mystery fundraiser isn’t just about raising money—it’s about creating memories, building connections, and turning guests into advocates for your cause.
With a Night of Mystery downloadable kit, you’re only a few clicks away from hosting a legendary night. From hosting guides to decor tips to award certificates, we provide everything you need to throw a party to die for!
Start planning today by browsing our top-selling mysteries or viewing all available games. Don’t forget to grab the right license if you’re hosting for a nonprofit or in a public venue!
Remember: The party’s not over until the killer is revealed!
Want even more ideas? Check out our real party galleries for photos and inspiration from successful fundraisers and private events alike!
Are You Up For The Challenge?
