If you’ve been hearing friends talk about Bunco night and wondering what all the excitement is about—welcome! You’re in for a fun, easy-to-learn game that’s really more about laughter, connection, and community than competition. Whether you’re planning your first game night or looking to upgrade your setup, this beginner-friendly guide covers all the Bunco essentials you need to host a successful and stress-free evening.
What Is Bunco, Anyway?
Let’s start with the basics: Bunco (also spelled Bunko) is a fast-paced dice game typically played with 12 or more people, divided into tables of four. It’s perfect for suburban moms looking for a girls’ night in that’s fun, social, and low-pressure. The game involves rolling dice, keeping score, and moving tables based on wins—no strategy required!
1. Dice – The Star of the Show
You’ll need three dice per table. Since most Bunco games have three or more tables, be sure to have a set of dice for each group. Colorful dice are a fun way to tie in with your game night theme.
Tip: Buy a multi-pack of dice online or at your local game store so you’re always prepared for extra guests. Try to buy dice that has LARGE circles because after a while, it gets hard to see and focus.
2. Score Sheets and Pencils
Each player will need a Bunco score sheet to track their wins, losses, and Buncos (when you roll three of the round’s number). You can print free Bunco scorecards or buy pre-made pads.
Pro mom tips:
- Keep a stash of cute pens or mechanical pencils in a mason jar for easy access (and a little style!).
- Customize your pencils.
- Change them out with every holiday.
- Tell everyone to leave their pencil as they switch tables. This will ensure everyone has something to write with as they find a new seat.
3. The Bell (Because Winning Should Sound Exciting!)
Every Bunco table needs a little excitement—enter the Bunco bell. The bell is kept at the “head table” and rung every time someone gets a Bunco (three of a kind matching the round number). It signals to all tables to pause and wait for the head table to finish before switching rounds.
A desk bell, bike bell, or themed bell (hello, cowbell!) works just fine.
4. Table Number Signs
Label each table so players know where to sit and when to rotate. Simple Table 1, Table 2, Table 3 signs will do the trick. You can print them on cardstock or use mini chalkboards for a Pinterest-worthy setup.
Bonus idea: Add mini centerpieces that match your theme (think fall pumpkins or Valentine’s hearts).
5. Prizes (Because Everyone Loves a Little Friendly Competition)
Part of the fun of Bunco is the prizes—not just for the most wins, but for categories like most losses, most Bunkos, or even best outfit. Keep it lighthearted with small gift cards, candles, or themed goodies.
- Tip: Set a budget like $5–$10 per prize so everyone can chip in or rotate hosting duties each month.
- Another idea is to have every person chip in $20 per game. Put all the money in a bowl and at the end of day, divy up the money accordingly.
Here’s a Bunco money breakdown chart example you can use or customize for your own game night. This setup assumes each player contributes a set amount of money to a communal prize pot, which is then divided among different categories like Most Wins, Most Losses, etc.
Sample Bunco Payout Chart (12 Players, $10 Each = $120 Pot)
| Prize Category | Suggested Payout | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Most Wins | $30 | Highest number of total wins |
| Most Buncos | $25 | Most times rolling three of the round number |
| Most Plus Fives | $20 | Most rounds won by 5 or more points |
| Most Losses | $15 | For the person who just couldn’t win |
| Last Bunco | $10 | The final Bunco of the night |
| Random Draw/Wild Card | $10 | Drawn from non-winners—keeps it fun! |
| Total Pot | $120 |
Customization Tips:
- Adjust the pot based on how many players are participating (e.g., $5, $10, or $20 per person).
- Add or remove categories depending on what your group enjoys.
- Some groups include Best Dressed or Best Snack as fun bonus prizes!
6. Snacks & Drinks – Fuel for the Fun
No Bunco night is complete without a snack spread. Think finger foods, dips, and sweet treats that are easy to grab between turns. A self-serve drink station with wine, mocktails, or sparkling water adds a festive touch.
The host of the given month is entirely responsible for the food. It all works out because everyone gets to host one during the year. No need to bring wine or house gifts when arriving to someone else’s house. Come just with the money to play.
My group serves a full dinner, but you don’t have to do that. You can just put out small bites. However, our bunco is usually played around 7:00PM. That is dinnertime for most of the ladies in our group who are just getting home from work. Something to think about.
7. A Fun, Cozy Atmosphere
You don’t need to go overboard, but a little effort in your setup goes a long way. Think music, candles, and some light decor to make your home feel welcoming. You’re creating a space for moms to unwind, connect, and enjoy themselves.
Want to take it a step further? Here are 10 fun Bunco themes your group can rotate throughout the year to keep game night fresh, festive, and full of personality:
Fiesta Night Bunco
Tacos, margaritas, papel picado decor, and upbeat Latin music—perfect for Cinco de Mayo or anytime.Pajama Party Bunco
Come in cozy PJs or loungewear, complete with fuzzy slippers and hot cocoa or wine in mugs.Galentine’s Day Bunco
All things pink, hearts, and chocolate. Think rom-com playlist and love-themed snacks.Tropical Luau Bunco
Hawaiian shirts, leis, piña coladas, and beachy decor—even if it’s snowing outside.80s Throwback Bunco
Big hair, neon outfits, and a killer 80s playlist. Bonus prize for the most radical outfit.Western Night Bunco
Denim, cowboy hats, bandanas, and BBQ-themed snacks. Yeehaw!Holiday Sparkle Bunco
Glam it up for December with sequins, metallics, and sparkly decor. Think mini “New Year’s Eve.”Bunco & Brunch
Play earlier in the day with mimosas, mini quiches, and fruit platters. A great Sunday option.Masquerade Bunco
Everyone wears a mask, mysterious and fun. Decorate in gold, black, and deep jewel tones.Back-to-School Mom’s Night Off
Celebrate the return of structure with cocktails, grown-up snacks, and a school-supply prize theme.
Ready to Roll?
Hosting your first Bunko night doesn’t have to be intimidating—it’s all about good friends, good food, and a whole lot of dice-rolling fun. With these Bunko must-haves, you’ll be more than ready to create a memorable evening for your group.
So grab your dice, pour a glass of something bubbly, and let the laughter (and the dice) roll!