Mixed Doubles Curling is a playful, indoor party game that mimics the strategy of ice curling using everyday materials. It works brilliantly as a hands-on activity for gatherings, team-building events, or family game nights, offering a mix of skill, teamwork, and light competition. This recipe provides a complete setup and rules for a fun, repeatable game that anyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 smooth, flat surface (e.g., a large table or hard floor area) – at least 8 ft (2.4 m) long
- 2 sets of 4 identical sliding discs (e.g., large checkers, poker chips, or small coasters) – 8 discs total, 4 per team
- 1 target marker (e.g., a small paper plate, a circular sticker, or a drawn circle) – about 6 in (15 cm) in diameter
- 2 brooms or long-handled dustpans (optional, for sweeping effect)
- Masking tape or chalk (to mark the target and shooting line)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Score sheet and pencil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the playing surface: Clear the table or floor of any objects. Ensure the surface is clean and dry. If using a table, make sure it is sturdy and level.
- Mark the target: Place the target marker (paper plate or drawn circle) at one end of the playing surface. Use tape or chalk to outline the target area if desired. This represents the “house” in traditional curling.
- Mark the shooting line: Measure and mark a line about 3 ft (90 cm) from the target end. This is the “hog line” – players must release their disc before this line. Use tape or chalk to create a visible line.
- Divide into teams: Split players into two teams of two (mixed doubles). Each team gets 4 discs of the same color/type.
- Determine starting team: Flip a coin or play rock-paper-scissors to decide which team goes first. The first team slides one of their discs from the shooting line toward the target.
- Alternate turns: Teams alternate sliding discs. Each player slides two discs per “end” (round), but the two teammates must alternate slides. For example, Player A slides, then Player B slides, then Player A again, then Player B again.
- Sweeping (optional): After a disc is released, the teammate (or the other player) may use a broom or dustpan to sweep the surface in front of the moving disc. This can help it travel further or straighter. Sweeping must stop before the disc crosses the shooting line.
- Scoring an end: After all 8 discs have been thrown, measure which disc is closest to the center of the target. That team scores 1 point for their closest disc. If a team has two discs closer than the opponent’s closest disc, they score 2 points. Only one team scores per end.
- Play multiple ends: Play a total of 6 ends (or as many as you like). The team that scores in an end gets to throw first in the next end. If no one scores, the team that threw second in the previous end throws first.
- Determine the winner: After all ends are played, add up the points. The team with the highest total wins. If tied, play one extra end to break the tie.
Tips
- Substitutions: If you don’t have discs, use flat-bottomed glass stones, large coins, or even bottle caps. Just make sure they slide easily. For the target, a piece of colored paper works fine.
- Surface matters: A smooth, hard surface like a wooden table or laminate floor works best. Carpet makes sliding difficult; if you must use carpet, use heavier discs or place a large piece of cardboard as a sliding lane.
- Common mistake: Releasing the disc too late (past the hog line) is a foul. In official rules, the disc is removed, but for casual play, you can simply re-throw or lose the disc. Also, don’t sweep too aggressively – it can knock the disc off course.
- Practice makes perfect: Let players practice a few slides before starting the game. This helps calibrate force and aim.
Serving Suggestions
This game pairs perfectly with light snacks and drinks. Serve it alongside a selection of finger foods like pretzels, popcorn, or veggie sticks. For a themed party, consider offering warm beverages like hot chocolate or apple cider. The game is best enjoyed in rounds, with breaks between ends for socializing.
Variations
- Team Size: For larger groups, you can play with teams of three or four, but the “mixed doubles” format is for two players per team. For more players, create a round-robin tournament.
- Obstacle Course: Place small obstacles (like books) on the playing surface that discs must navigate around. This adds a fun challenge.
- Timed Rounds: Add a time limit for each end (e.g., 2 minutes) to increase pace and excitement.
- Different Scoring: Instead of only scoring for closest to the center, award points for discs that land within a certain radius of the target (e.g., 3 points for the exact center, 2 points for within 6 inches, 1 point for within 12 inches).
Storage and Reheating
This game is not a food item, so storage refers to the equipment. After playing, simply collect the discs and target marker. Store them in a small box or bag for future use. The game can be set up again in minutes. There is no reheating involved, but if the playing surface becomes dusty or sticky, wipe it clean with a damp cloth before the next use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play this on a carpeted floor? Yes, but it’s more challenging. Use heavier discs or place a large, smooth board (like a piece of plywood or a plastic mat) as the sliding surface. This will make the game much more enjoyable.
What if I don’t have a target marker? You can draw a circle with chalk or use a piece of tape. The key is to have a clear, visible target. A small paper plate works perfectly.
How many players do I need? The game is designed for 4 players (2 teams of 2). However, you can adapt it for 2 players (one disc each) or up to 8 players by rotating teams. Just adjust the number of discs per team accordingly.
Is there a limit to how many ends we play? No, it’s completely flexible. Traditional curling has 10 ends, but for a party, 4-6 ends is usually perfect. You can also play for a set amount of time (e.g., 30 minutes).
Can I use real curling stones? Only if you have access to an ice rink. This recipe is for indoor, tabletop play. Using real stones on a table would damage the table and the stones.
What if a disc goes off the table? That disc is out of play for that end. It does not count, and it is not re-thrown. This adds an element of risk and reward, as players must balance power and accuracy.
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