Nothing is more horrifying than a lull in conversation.
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Okay, that may be a little dramatic (and untrue), but awkward pauses are the worst, especially when it's a group of people seated around a table eating a meal. No one—and I mean no one—wants their chewing and slurping sounds to fill the silence. That's why it's crucial you come to these gatherings armed with a few open-ended questions that'll spark some lively discussions and keep the party going. Whether it's a Friendsgiving get-together, a White Elephant gift exchange, or a Thanksgiving activity with the extended family, you should be fully prepared.
But you can't just ask any 'ole thing. Hitting the person next to you with a vague "How was your day?" won't inspire any creative answers. And shifting the conversation to tender topics like politics and religion can go downhill fast. A great dinner party question is one that both engages and entertains. It must be specific enough that it can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no," but not so specific that people are scratching their heads trying to come up with an answer.
Thankfully, you don't have to come up with these perfectly crafted questions on the spot. The internet is at your disposal with a bevy of thought-provoking and amusing queries to choose from. So the next time you're hosting a dinner party, consider posing one of these 15 questions to your guests and see just where the conversation takes you.
What was the last thing you did for the first time?
We tend to experience fewer and fewer firsts as we get older, but this question opens up the opportunity for everyone to share a recent new experience or adventure.
If you could live in any fictional universe, where would you live?
From Hogwarts to the Shire, everyone has a fictional world they would love to call home. This question will transport your guests' imaginations and spark some fun discussions about their favorite books, movies, or TV shows.
If you could pet an animal that you can't normally pet, what animal would you choose?
Want to snuggle with a bear? Give a high-five to a kangaroo? This question will have everyone revealing their dream petting zoo experiences.
What conspiracy theory do you kind of believe?
From aliens to government cover-ups, everyone has a conspiracy theory that they secretly (or not-so-secretly) believe in. This question is sure to bring out some interesting theories and debates amongst your guests.
What's something creative you're working on right now?
You don't have to be an artist or musician to be creative. This question gives everyone a chance to share their hobbies and passions, no matter what they are.
What celebrity do you hate for virtually no reason?
This one is sure to create some laughs and maybe even a little bit of controversy. Everyone has that one celebrity they just can't stand, no matter how irrational the reason may be.
What's one thing you've changed your mind about over the last year?
It's always interesting to hear about how people's perspectives and opinions have evolved over time.
What is a seemingly small decision you made that completely changed the trajectory of your entire life?
Sometimes, it's not the big life events that shape us but the seemingly insignificant choices we make along the way. Maybe a last-minute change in travel plans led to meeting a significant other, or choosing the wrong major in college led to an unexpected career path.
What's the most miserable experience you wish a start-up would solve?
Whether it's waiting in long lines at the DMV or picking up after our pets, we all have those everyday annoyances that we wish someone would come up with a solution for. This question may just spark some million-dollar ideas.
What's the last thing you Googled?
If you feel like you're seated amongst a few brave souls willing to share their recent search history, this question is sure to elicit some laughs and maybe even a few raised eyebrows.
What was the best birthday you ever had?
This question will not only spark some fond memories but also give you an insight into what makes a birthday truly great for different people.
What's the most extravagant purchase you've ever made?
You can learn a lot about someone by their spending habits. This question allows guests to open up about their splurges—and whether they were worth it or not.
If you could bring back one long-dead fashion trend, what would it be?
This question is sure to elicit some passionate and hilarious responses. From bell bottoms to choker necklaces, everyone has a favorite fashion trend from the past. Bonus points should be given to anyone who has photo evidence of themselves rocking the trend.
What's the worst or weirdest job you ever had?
We all have those jobs we wish we could forget. Have everyone share their funny, strange, or downright terrible work experiences and bond over the struggle.
Who is the most famous person you've ever met?
Whether it's a chance encounter with a celebrity or a distant relative with a recognizable mug, everyone loves to share their brush with fame.
