Love and Lies: Hosting a Killer Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery Party

Ah, Valentine’s Day—a time for roses, chocolates, and…murder? Forget the candlelit dinners and predictable rom-com marathons. This year, why not turn up the heat with a murder mystery party that combines romance and intrigue?

WhoDunnit Dinners’ “My Deadly Valentine” is the perfect way to celebrate love with a deadly twist. Set in the glamorous world of the Roaring Twenties, this game has it all: forbidden love, jealousy, and, of course, a murder to solve. Here’s how to host a Valentine’s party that will have your guests swooning and sleuthing all night long.

1. Set the Scene: A Romance-Wrapped Crime Scene

Valentine’s Day is all about the atmosphere, and a murder mystery adds a thrilling edge. Combine classic romance with vintage elegance to create the perfect backdrop for solving the crime.

• Jazz Age Glamour: For “My Deadly Valentine,” transform your home into a decadent 1920s speakeasy. Think dim lighting, feathered centrepieces, and sparkling red and gold accents.
• Romantic Touches: Scatter rose petals, use heart-shaped decorations, and light plenty of candles. Hidden clues disguised as love letters or cryptic valentines add a fun twist.
• Dress the Part: Encourage guests to come dressed in 1920s-inspired outfits. From flapper dresses to tailored suits, the glamorous attire will transport everyone back in time.

2. The Menu: A Feast for the Heart (and the Sleuths)

Keep your guests’ energy up for solving the mystery with a menu full of Valentine’s flair and indulgent delights.

• Deadly Delights: Serve hors d’oeuvres like "Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktails" or "Cupid’s Arrow Caprese Skewers" to set the mood.
• Main Courses with a Twist: Think "Passionate Pasta" (red sauce optional!) or a decadent "Heart-Stopping Beef Wellington."
• Sweet Endings: Finish with “Poisoned Chocolate Hearts” (don’t worry—they’re just chocolate mousse in heart-shaped molds) or “Murderous Macarons” in red and pink hues.
• Themed Cocktails: Create drinks like “The Fatal Flapper” (a sparkling cranberry spritz) or “Lover’s Lament” (a smoky mezcal and lime concoction).

3. Engage Your Guests: Secrets, Lies, and Love Affairs

One of the best parts of a murder mystery party is how it brings everyone together, and “My Deadly Valentine” is brimming with opportunities for guests to play out romantic subplots, jealous rivalries, and shocking revelations.

• Romantic Rivalries: Hand out character roles in advance so your guests can prepare. Encourage them to lean into their character’s motives—especially those with romantic entanglements.
• Love Notes and Clues: Hide evidence around the venue, disguised as love letters or cryptic Valentine’s cards. For example, a note reading “You broke my heart—literally” could hint at a motive!
• Dramatic Reveals: Encourage over-the-top performances. Nothing says Valentine’s drama like a jilted lover dramatically confessing their jealousy in front of the group.

4. Final Touches: Make It Memorable

To ensure your guests leave talking about your event for weeks, add thoughtful details that tie everything together.

• Photobooth Fun: Set up a vintage-inspired photo area with props like feather boas, pearl necklaces, and heart-shaped frames.
• Themed Favors: Send guests home with mini bottles of champagne or “Cupid’s Detective Kits” filled with chocolates, a magnifying glass, and a tiny notepad.
• Award the Best: At the end of the night, hand out prizes for “Best Actor,” “Most Convincing Alibi,” and “Best Dressed.”

A murder mystery like “My Deadly Valentine” is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with flair and excitement. Not only will your guests have a blast solving the mystery, but they’ll also enjoy a night filled with romance, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

And if you’re feeling extra creative, remember you can add a Valentine’s twist to other WhoDunnit Dinners games too. A snowy ski lodge in “The Spy Who Came In With a Cold” could host a secret Valentine’s rendezvous, or just ditch Valentine's Day all together and have a Halloween themed evening with Whodunnit Dinners' game  "Spectre at the Feast"

So, this Valentine’s Day, swap the sappy for the suspenseful, and let the games begin. Who says love can’t be murder? 💔🔍