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How to Host a Legendary Flat Night During Freshers’ Week








Freshers’ Week is the one time in university life when everyone is looking to make new friends, say “yes” to everything, and build connections that could last the next three (or more) years. One of the best ways to make that happen? Host a flat night that your housemates will never forget.

Whether you're an extrovert ready to get the party started or an introvert just looking for good vibes and easy laughs, this guide will help you create a night that feels chill, inclusive, and legendary.

Here’s how to pull it off without stress — and without spending a fortune.


🛋️ 1. Set the Vibe First

The right vibe is everything. You want your flatmates and new friends to feel welcome the moment they walk into the common area. So take 10–15 minutes to do a mini glow-up of your space.

Essentials for setting the mood:

  • Fairy lights or LED strips – soft lighting instantly makes things feel cozy

  • A chill playlist – mix in old-school bangers, current hits, and relaxed background tracks

  • Clean up – no one relaxes in a messy kitchen. Clear off surfaces, light a candle (or spray some air freshener), and give the space a quick tidy

You don’t need a TikTok-worthy setup — just aim for warm, welcoming, and not too formal.


🍕 2. Keep the Food Simple

Flat nights don’t need full-on charcuterie boards or themed dinners (unless that’s your thing). Go for easy, shareable food that doesn’t require fancy prep.

Go-to options:

  • Order pizza together – everyone chips in, everyone’s happy

  • Potluck-style snacks – ask everyone to bring one thing: crisps, biscuits, drinks, etc.

  • Make-it-together food – tacos, nachos, or DIY toasties are great conversation starters

Eating together is a natural bonding experience, and it takes the pressure off feeling like you need to constantly talk.


🃏 3. Bring Out a Card Game That Sparks Conversation

This is the real game-changer. Once everyone’s eaten and is settling into the night, bring out a card game that’s designed for laughs, icebreaking, and unexpected moments.

You don’t want something too competitive or rule-heavy — pick something casual that blends:

  • Funny dares

  • Deep or wild questions

  • Team play or rotating turns

Games like this are perfect for getting people to open up, loosen up, and actually enjoy talking to new faces. Plus, they eliminate awkward silences instantly.

Pro tip: If you want to avoid putting people on the spot, choose a game that lets people opt out or pass on a question. Comfort creates better vibes.


🎤 4. Mix in Low-Key Activities

While the card game might be the star of the night, it’s smart to offer a few optional extras for people who want to hang without too much pressure.

Try:

  • A “pass-the-aux” playlist game – everyone takes turns playing a song that matches a theme ("your high school anthem", "a song that screams main character energy")

  • Movie on in the background – it adds energy and gives people something to comment on

  • Mini photo booth – if someone has a Polaroid or you’ve got a phone tripod, create a mini corner for flat pics

Not everyone will want to be the life of the party — and that’s okay. The goal is to create space for everyone to connect, in their own way.


🍻 5. Keep It Inclusive (With or Without Alcohol)

Not everyone drinks — especially in the first few days when people are just getting comfortable. So, offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options without making it a big deal.

Stock up on:

  • Soft drinks and mocktails

  • Sparkling water or juice

  • Fun cups or mason jars (because it makes everything feel a bit fancier)

You can still do “cheers” and toasts and play drinking games — just swap in the juice if someone’s not drinking. Keep the vibe welcoming and low-pressure.


🧍‍♂️ 6. Break the Clique Before It Starts

One of the easiest mistakes during Freshers’ Week is letting cliques form too fast. Your flat night is a perfect chance to mix people up and include everyone, especially the ones who are quieter or still finding their footing.

A few tips:

  • Play games that randomly assign partners or rotate turns

  • Ask people about their course, where they’re from, or a funny first impression of uni

  • Invite neighbors or people from other flats to join — it expands your circle and helps everyone feel more connected

You never know who will turn into your go-to study buddy or future best friend.


🌙 7. End on a High (and a Group Chat)

Flat nights don’t have to go on until 4AM. In fact, ending on a high note — when people are still having fun — means they’ll remember the night in a great light.

Before people start peeling off:

  • Set up a group chat for your flat or the night’s guests

  • Share any funny photos, quotes, or stories from the night

  • Float the idea of a recurring hangout (e.g., “Flat Fridays” or “Games & Grub” nights)

This turns one fun evening into a potential tradition — and gives everyone something to look forward to.


🎉 Final Thoughts

Hosting a legendary flat night doesn’t take a party planner’s budget or a Pinterest-perfect room. It just takes a bit of effort, good energy, and something fun to bring people together.

Freshers’ Week is about finding your people — and your flat night might be the very first step.

So throw on a playlist, clear the table, pass out the snacks, and bring out the card games. Friendships start with fun — and tonight might just be the night you all remember years from now.



 
 
 
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