Hemlock ParlorHemlock Parlor · Birthdays
Murder mystery birthday party
A murder mystery works well for a birthday because every guest has a part and the evening has a shape: mingle, find the body, solve it, then cake. Give the birthday guest the role they'll enjoy most, and serve the cake after the solution.
Free to print
Murder at Winterbourne's Toys: a mystery for 6 players, about 90 minutes. Invitations, character sheets, three clues and the solution in one PDF.
Plan it around the birthday
- Give the birthday guest first pick. The detective-minded will want an innocent role with clues to share; the dramatic will want a big secret.
- Don't make the birthday guest the murderer unless they ask to be. Being accused at your own party isn't for everyone.
- Cake after the reveal. Accusations, then the solution, then candles. Everyone is in a good mood and has a story to tell.
- Prizes. Best detective and best costume, handed out by the birthday guest.
Our free mystery already has a cake in it
"Murder at Winterbourne's Toys" is set at a toy shop's fortieth-anniversary party, with a cake shaped like a toy train. Bake a train cake and the birthday becomes part of the scene. It needs exactly six players and runs about 90 minutes.
Inviting guests
Send invitations a week or two ahead with each guest's character and one costume idea. Our invitation maker deals the roles and writes the message; you send it yourself by text or email.
Questions
What age is a murder mystery birthday party for?
Our mysteries are written for teens and adults. There is a murder, but nothing gory: the puzzle is about who was where and when.
How many guests do I need?
Exactly six for the free mystery, or 8 to 12 for a holiday edition. With more than six, two guests can share a character.
How long should I plan for?
About 90 minutes for the game, plus time for food and cake: two and a half hours in all.
Keep reading
Ready to host?
Our free mystery has invitations, six character sheets, three clues and the solution in one PDF.
Download the free mystery