Everything You Need to Host a Bingo Night: Supplies, Tips, and Snacks

Lifestyle & Fun

Mar 28

A Classic Game That Never Gets Old

Whether you’re planning a cozy game night at home, an event for your community center, or a fun activity for all ages, Bingo is always a hit. It’s easy to set up, fun to play, and flexible enough to work with groups big or small.

At TechPals, we’re all about making tech and events easier—so we’ve put together a complete guide with everything you need to run your own Bingo night, plus a few extra touches to make it special.

Need help setting up a digital version or sending out invites? We’ve got you covered at techpals.org.

Why Host a Bingo Night?

Before we jump into the supply list, let’s talk about why Bingo is such a great choice.

It’s easy to explain – perfect for intergenerational events
It requires minimal setup – just cards, a caller, and a little coordination
It’s engaging and social – a fun way to break the ice or build community
It’s low-cost or free – you can reuse supplies again and again

And if you add a few snacks or prizes? Even better.

Bingo Supplies: What You’ll Need

To host a smooth, stress-free game night, make sure you’ve got the right tools on hand. These are all available online, and we’ve included links to some of our favorite options.

1. Bingo Set

You’ll need a way to randomly draw numbers and a clear way for players to follow along. A basic Bingo set includes:

A rotating cage or number generator
Numbered balls or chips
A call sheet or number board

👉 Buy a Bingo Set (affiliate link)

If you're looking to go digital, there are also apps and websites that can call out numbers or display them onscreen. TechPals can help you pick the best option—just visit techpals.org.

2. Jumbo Bingo Cards

Standard Bingo cards work fine, but we highly recommend jumbo-sized cards—especially for older adults or anyone with vision difficulties.

These oversized cards are easier to read, and they often come laminated or in multi-use pads.

👉 Buy Jumbo Bingo Cards (affiliate link)

Bonus tip: You can print your own cards using free Bingo card generators online if you’re on a budget.

3. Portable Chargers

If you’re using digital tools—like an app to call numbers, or a device to track winners—make sure you have enough portable phone chargers on hand. It’s also helpful if your guests want to keep their devices powered during a long game.

👉 Buy Portable Chargers (affiliate link)

TechPal Tip: Hosting a virtual Bingo night? Make sure everyone knows how to join the video call, and offer tech support ahead of time. We can help you set this up at techpals.org.

Snacks That Everyone Will Love

A Bingo night isn’t complete without snacks. Whether you’re offering individual portions or serving buffet-style, here are a few crowd-pleasers that are easy to serve, allergy-friendly, and fun to eat between rounds.

4. Chocolate Gelt

Chocolate coins are not just for holidays—they’re easy to portion and can even double as game prizes or Bingo chips.

👉 Buy Chocolate Gelt (affiliate link)

5. Halva Bites

A sweet, nutty treat that’s great for sharing. Halva has a soft, crumbly texture and comes in bite-sized pieces—perfect for casual snacking.

👉 Buy Halva Bites (affiliate link)

6. Pretzels

Salty, crunchy, and a safe bet for most dietary needs. Individual pretzel bags or a large bowl with tongs makes serving easy.

👉 Buy Pretzels (affiliate link)

Want to keep snacks simple and organized? Visit techpals.org for tips on creating digital RSVP forms or managing potluck signups online.

Optional: Add Some Fun with Prizes

Want to raise the stakes? Offering small prizes can make the game feel more exciting.

Candy or chocolates
Puzzle books
Tech gadgets (like a stylus or phone stand)
Gift cards or homemade coupons
Travel-size games

Organizing for a community group or larger event? Use gift bags to package prizes ahead of time.

👉 Buy Gift Bags (affiliate link)

Pro Tip: Set clear rules ahead of time. Will there be prizes for just the first winner—or for multiple rounds like “Four Corners” or “Cover All”? Post them in writing so everyone’s on the same page.

Bonus Tips for Hosting a Great Bingo Night

Keep It Accessible

If you're hosting for a mixed-age group or people with different physical or cognitive abilities, consider:

Larger cards and font sizes
Slower calling speed
Clear audio or microphone use
Optional use of digital Bingo boards

Need help setting up a hybrid or accessibility-friendly game? TechPals can walk you through it — techpals.org

Play Multiple Rounds

Most Bingo sets come with enough cards to run multiple games in one sitting. Consider switching up the winning patterns:

Traditional line
Diagonal
Four corners
"Postage stamp"
Full card (Cover All)

Announce the pattern before each round for clarity.

Offer a Digital Option

Hosting a remote group or hybrid event? There are free online Bingo platforms where everyone can join from home. Tech Pals can help set this up, test your audio/video, and send instructions in advance. Just head to techpals.org.

Why Bingo Works for So Many Occasions

Whether you're planning a holiday celebration, a weekly activity for a senior center, or a one-time event with friends, Bingo fits the bill. It's:

Easy to learn
Adaptable for any group size
Affordable to run
A low-pressure way to socialize

If you're working in a caregiving, retirement, or intergenerational setting, Bingo can spark laughter, conversation, and even light competition—all while being inclusive.

Final Thoughts: Make It Your Own

There’s no wrong way to play Bingo. Whether you’re keeping it simple with just a few friends or going all-out with themed rounds and snacks, the most important thing is to have fun.

With the right supplies, a little planning, and some helpful tech support if you need it, you’ll be ready to host a memorable night.

Have questions about setting up or managing a Bingo event online or in person? Reach out to TechPals — we’re here to help. Visit techpals.org and let us know what you’re planning.

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Jesse Kaplan