From company welcome and farewell parties to friends’ birthdays and gatherings with loved ones, drinking parties are often held on such occasions.
Some of you may be looking for ways to liven up the event or plan a surprise that will wow the guest of honor.
In this article, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of surprise ideas you can use at drinking parties.
We’ll introduce ideas that work in a wide range of settings, such as izakayas, karaoke rooms, and party venues.
Use these ideas—whether it’s sending a heartfelt message or sharing a good laugh with everyone—to make your gathering even more fun.
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Surprises to liven up a drinking party. Gift ideas (1–10) for someone special.
Lead role mask
Let’s try making masks by printing your friend’s face photo in a large size.
It’s very easy to do with cardboard.
If you make lots of them and everyone wears one, you can surprise the star of the party.
It also sounds fun to make face photos of each participant as well.
Magic
How about using magic tricks to liven up the party? Card magic is a great choice because it requires little preparation and can be performed easily right at the table.
Combining the location of a gift with a magic trick can add an extra thrill, too.
With so many tutorial videos available now, it’s easier than ever to give it a try.
You’ll be able to create an unforgettable night that everyone can enjoy together.
Many tricks can be performed by anyone with a bit of practice, so go ahead and delight everyone with some astonishing magic.
It’s sure to be a fun gathering full of laughter.
Celebration Song
For a birthday party for a senior, coworker, or friend, singing a birthday song makes for a straightforward surprise.
If there’s karaoke equipment, it’s also fun for everyone to perform their favorite birthday song.
There are plenty these days, like Quruli’s “BIRTHDAY,” BUMP OF CHICKEN’s “HAPPY,” and Ai Otsuka’s “Birthday Song.” And with the classic “Happy Birthday to You,” it’s always nice not only to include the person’s name in the lyrics, but even to turn it into a little parody version.
Balloon
How about balloons to instantly liven up the vibe of your drinking party? They create a bright, fun atmosphere, and the affordable price is a big plus.
Decorate with colorful balloons that make everyone smile, and your guests are sure to love it.
Online shops offer a wide variety, including character-themed and uniquely designed balloons.
Why not incorporate balloons for a birthday party or an anniversary surprise? Just imagining the guest of honor’s delighted face is enough to get you excited.
It’s sure to be a wonderful, memorable party.
Surprise movie
Why not edit your favorite photos and videos to create a wonderful surprise movie? It makes a heartwarming gift that will delight the guest of honor at a get-together or party with close friends.
You can easily get started with free apps, so give it a try.
Adding messages from participants and compiling memorable, fun scenes will make the video even more moving.
If you match it with music and finish it with colorful flair, you’re sure to create an unforgettable moment.
Surprise guest
A perfect way to liven up a drinking party is to stage a surprise guest appearance.
Inviting someone the guest of honor rarely gets to see—like a close friend, a former mentor, or family who live far away—will fill them with surprise and emotion.
Adding a humorous touch, such as having the guest arrive in disguise, will spark laughter.
After the entrance, set aside time to reminisce about past memories or share messages to the guest of honor to create a warm, heartfelt atmosphere.
It’s a surprise idea that lets everyone enjoy unexpected reunions and playful staging.
Surprise award
A surprise awards ceremony that everyone can enjoy together is a major highlight.
It’s a program where you present awards during the event—such as Overall Winner, Best Dressed, or Mood Maker—and hold a ceremony.
Preparing custom trophies or medals will make it feel even more polished.
When someone’s name is called as a surprise, the entire venue is filled with a celebratory atmosphere.
Adding unique award categories and comments can spark laughter and even move people to tears.
It’s also a great idea as a moment at the end of a party to express your gratitude.