Everyone knows that hurricanes are horrible, devastating and catastrophic events. They cause billions of dollars worth of damage, and if people aren’t fully prepared, they risk losing their homes, valuables and even their lives. However, for some, the idea of a hurricane sounds intriguing. In areas where hurricanes are frequent, or where the effects of the hurricane aren’t as severe with no need to evacuate, some people try to make the best out of a bad situation: by having a hurricane party.

Hurricane parties are wildly common in states such as Florida, Louisiana and Texas. Although it’s rare that you’ll see someone throwing a hurricane party in an area like the Piedmont Triad, they’re still fun to have, even if all you’re having is strong winds and heavy rain. 

In middle school,  I went to a hurricane party hosted by one of my friends who had recently here moved from Florida. She was astounded to find out that hurricane parties weren’t common around here. It was a really fun experience and something I’d definitely consider going to again.

Hurricane parties include many activities, but there are two main components: food and games. Essentially, the idea is that you and your friends don’t leave the house until the hurricane is over or it’s safe to leave, so the majority of the food you buy has to be for non-perishable snacks. It’s possible to make a hot meal, but you’ll need plenty of ice to keep it fresh, and a non-electric grill to cook on. For the next few days, your diet will most likely consist of potato chips, cookies and a wide array of junk food.

 To avoid going stir-crazy from boredom, you’ve got to do more than just sit around and watch old movies on DVD; that’s why you play games at hurricane parties. Cards Against Humanity, Monopoly and Twister are some of my personal favorites. There are some games that are more physically involved that you can play too. I highly recommend games like capture the flag, night at the museum, as well as hide and seek. Some of these games are slightly more difficult to play in a house, but that just adds to the thrill of the game, especially if you play them in the dark, which works out nicely if you lose power.

Hurricane parties may not be of much use here in the Piedmont Triad, but they certainly are a fun thing to throw, even without the threat of a seriously damaging hurricane. If you don’t get the chance to try it out this hurricane season, maybe try it on a snow day! The weather may be different, but the premise is the same: to have fun spending time with your friends, family or anyone else who’s important to you.