The focus of your bowling party is going to be less about décor and more about the game itself, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add some fun details. Make your lane distinctive by tying on some helium balloons. You can find pin- and bowling-ball-shaped Mylar balloons at your local party supply store. Or simply blacken in three circles with a marker on standard latex balloons to simulate the finger holes of the bowling ball.
Seating is often in short supply at bowling alleys, and people can tend to crowd in the lanes. If you’re serving snacks at your party, set them up at the tables and chairs positioned behind the lanes. This is a perfect way to keep the spectators separated from those who are immersed in the game.
Classic bowling shirts are always in order for bowling parties. If you don't have your own, hit up a consignment store. You might get lucky and come across a retro-looking bowling shirt, and nothing starts conversations like wearing a shirt with someone else's name on it.
If you want to make your bowling party more costume-oriented, you're in luck — bowling has been a favorite American pastime for more than a half-century. Simply pick a decade for your bowling party and have your guests dress accordingly. Think leather jackets and poodle skirts for the '50s, bell-bottoms and leisure suits for the '70s, and leg warmers and skinny ties to go totally '80s.
One common denominator for anyone's bowling party attire — socks. Remember that everyone will be seeing them, so leave your threadbare pair at home (and no one wants a naked toe poking into rented shoes). If you're wearing sandals and planning on hitting the lanes, be sure to bring a pair of socks with you.
After a couple rounds of good, old-fashioned bowling, try something a little different. Divide into teams, and make everyone bowl with the other hand. Or bowl backwards. Or see who can master the between-the-legs granny shot. Have some mini trophies on hand for the guests who showcase the most skill in categories like Highest Score, Best Strike or Luckiest Shot. And for those who are high on style, acknowledge the Gnarliest Split and Best Gutterball.
Bowling is one of those activities that’s great for people of all ages, so you can be sure the children will have just as much fun as the adults. Reserve a lane that is exclusively for kids and designate an adult to help them keep track of their scores. If the children are particularly young, you can have the alley put up the guardrails on their lane. Many bowling alleys have arcades as well — keep a bag of change in tow in case the children lose interest in bowling.
If you like hot dogs and nachos, then you'll love the concession stand. However, you may want to bring some healthy snacks to give your guests a few alternatives. Slice some raw veggies and serve them with a simple dipping sauce. Cube some pineapples, melons and mangoes. Put out bowls of pretzels and mixed nuts for everyone to graze on while watching the game.
As far as desserts go, your local bowling alley probably doesn’t have much beyond candy. Pack a plate of brownies or cookies for your guests who crave a sweet treat. Finger foods are definitely easier than having to deal with utensils, but be sure to bring some hand sanitizer (for obvious reasons).
Featured Bowling Party Recipes from Epicurious.com
Fuzzy Navel
• 1 1/2 oz. peach schnapps
• Fill with orange juice
Mix ingredients into a highball glass. Add ice and garnish with a slice of lime and a twizzel stick. |  |
| 1. | Hotel California / Gipsy Kings
|
| 2. | Great Balls of Fire / Jerry Lee Lewis
|
| 3. | Jump / Van Halen
|
| 4. | Buddy Holly / Weezer
|
| 5. | Roll With It / Steve Winwood
|
| 6. | Strike It Up / Black Box
|
| 7. | Score Tonight / Grease 2 Soundtrack
|
| 8. | Back In Black / AC/DC
|
| 9. | Good Times Roll / The Cars
|
| 10. | We Are the Champions / Queen
|
Send the right message with our free eCards — they're a fast and easy way to say thank you, happy birthday, save the date, congratulations, and more.
Send free eCards
Drink Calculator