Murder Mystery Dinners
1 min read
NISC Programs of Excellence
- Year Awarded: 2025
- Programs of Excellence Name: Murder Mystery Dinners
- Hosting Organization: Davidson County Senior Services, Davidson County, North Carolina
- Davidson County Population: 174,804
- 60+ Population: 44,048
- Senior Center Members: 2,330
About the Murder Mystery Dinners
Davidson County Senior Services hosts social events where guests work together to solve a fake murder while eating dinner. The event combines elements of theater, role-playing, and problem-solving.
With a purchased kit, the dinner flows easily, with each participant getting either a character role, or the role of an investigator. The game is run by one person who is in charge of keeping everything on track, following the instructions given in the kit. In round one introductions are made, followed by a scripted table read through from each participant. Following each round, discussions and accusations can be made by characters or investigators. At the end of round three, each participant is prompted to make their final accusation along with their reasoning. Following the revelation of the murderer and their motive, participants enjoy taking photos with themed props and signs with quotes stating "I solved the case," "It was me all along," "I let them get away", and more.
Key takeaways from Murder Mystery Dinners:
- Critical thinking: Particiants enjoy thinking outside the box and collecting clues to solve the murder.
- Social interaction: Due to the interactive style of this program, participants are able to connect in a fun and interesting way with strangers.
- Program growth: Due to past success, this is one program we know will have participation each time we host it.
About Davidson County Senior Services
Davidson County Senior Services is an all-in-one resource where older adults and caregivers can meet their social, mental, physical, and day-to-day practical needs. Services include nutrition proframs at five cafes, wellness and education classes at two senior centers, benefits counseling, in-home services, Meals on Wheels, volunteer opportunities, and more.