29 Fun Things to Do at a Sleepover for an Unforgettable Night

Updated 06/10/19
how to host a sleepover

We’ve known it since we were kids: Nothing says fun like a party that lasts from dusk til dawn. Whether you’re prepping for your child’s birthday party or simply looking to create an unforgettable Friday night, there are a number of creative twists that can help take the occasion to the next level. Who doesn't love the chance to lounge in silk pajamas and slippers all night with a face mask while watching When Harry Met Sally? Followed by breakfast in bed once the morning arrives. 

If this year's trend to host indoor dinner parties over going out is anything to go by, we guarantee 2019 will be the year of sleepovers instead of all-nighters or parties (see you later, Fear of Missing Out, it's the era of staying in, otherwise known as the Joy of Missing Out.) Besides, you can still sip on wine and enjoy yourself without the headache of catching a ride home. Just relax, laugh, and have fun. Sounds like a good recipe to us.

So without further ado, here are 28 of the best things to do at a sleepover that will remind you of your childhood.

sleepover ideas

Transform your living room into a salon. Depending on the age of your group, DIY makeovers can be the perfect slumber party activity.

Plan a themed movie marathon. Anything from celebrating a sports victory to observing a holiday lends itself brilliantly to this agenda.

Make a movie. Get some thrift store props, press record, and make a short film.

Fun Things to Do at a Sleepover
Michela Buttignol / MyDomaine 

Serve popcorn for breakfast. You’ll be revered as a hero.

Set up a personalized pillowcase station. All you need are a handful of plain white pillowcases, a packet of colorful fabric markers, and plenty of surface area.

Throw an indoor beach party. Use crepe paper or silk flowers to let everyone make their own lei, then serve up some fruity snacks.

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Madewell Loafer Scuff Slipper $30
Things to Do at a Sleepover

Break out the karaoke machine. The instant party-starting potential of a karaoke machine will have everyone unleashing their inner pop idol.

Dish up a midnight snack. One of these simple brownie recipes should do the trick.

Make your own jewelry with a selection of beads, ribbons, and wire.

Transform the den into a pillow fort. The more blankets and sheets you have on hand, the better.

Provide cozy, matching pajamas for everyone to wear (and to remember the evening).

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La Mer The Treatment Lotion Hydrating Mask $150
Chocolate Cake
Markus Spiske/Unsplash

Bake a cake. Rather than simply furnishing snacks, create an opportunity to make them from scratch.

Stock up on dollar store slippers for a fun, immediately usable souvenir.

Create a cupcake bar with an array of plain cupcakes, different types of frosting, and an assortment of toppings.

Host an at-home fashion show. Have each guest bring a few favorite clothing items that can be borrowed and shared, then create a runway using Christmas lights. (Killer playlist required.)

Design a pancake bar for breakfast. DIY sundaes are always one of the best things to do at a sleepover, but move the fun to the morning with a topping-heavy pancake station.

Make your pancake bar a success with these items: fresh fruit, nuts, cacau nibs, and finishing touches like sea salt and cinnamon.

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Nordstrom at Home Set of 4 Measuring Cups $23
Walking Outside
London Scout/Unsplash

Provide matching diaries that can be customized on-site using glitter, sequins, and metallic markers.

Create an indoor campout. Gather around the fireplace or turn out the lights and have everyone use flashlights while swapping spooky stories.

Make custom s’mores. Stock up on the good stuff—high-quality chocolate, marshmallows, and other candy variations—to achieve the height of memorable indoor glamping.

Plot a scavenger hunt. Why save goody bags until the end of the night? A clue-based scavenger hunt is one of the best things to do at a sleepover.

Take a field trip to a local ice cream parlor or thrift store (just make sure all outings are parent-approved if you’re hosting children).

Papinelle Silk Pajamas
Papinelle Silk Pajamas $200
slumber party ideas

Take it outside. If the weather cooperates, one of the best things to do at a sleepover is to explore the outdoors. Set up tents in the backyard, take a stroll, or a group walk to the park.

Get a little messy with outdoor slip-n-slides, squirt guns, water balloons, or silly-string battles.

Open your house to an epic game of hide-and-go-seek. The less off-limits, the more fun it will be.

Arrange a selection of speed-based games. While long-form games like Monopoly tend to lag, speed-based games like Pictionary, Scattergories, and timed Twister involve everyone and keep energy levels high. There's also the side-splitting yet incredibly cheeky Cards Against Humanity.

Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask $45
sleepover ideas

Create a spa experience with all-natural face masks that can be applied and giggled at right in your living room. Remember to snap a group selfie to commemorate those Joy of Mission Out and self-care vibes.

Treat everyone to foot baths for a spa-inspired sleepover.

Customize sleep masks. Let everyone design and decorate their own sleep masks using colorful glitter and fabric paint.

Make take-home gift bags. Use glitter and colorful organza gift bags to complement themed party favors.

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