The top 8 ways to throw an epic barracks party

Tim Kirkpatrick
Jul 30, 2022 4:59 AM PDT
3 minute read
Army photo

SUMMARY

Being a member of the lower-enlisted community means you’re not going to make a lot of cash, so you’re probably living in the barracks. On the weekends, you just want to have a little fun before the work week starts up again. Since most…

Being a member of the lower-enlisted community means you're not going to make a lot of cash, so you're probably living in the barracks.


On the weekends, you just want to have a little fun before the work week starts up again. Since most troops don't have cars, they hang out at the barracks and drink.

We call these epic social gatherings "barracks parties."

Some parties can be dull while others can be freaking awesome — and military life is all about making memories.

So we compiled a list of ways to make your next barracks party that much better.

1. Have a theme

The easy way out is to have a video game tournament, but we know you can do better than that. Use your creativity and come up with some themes like Vegas or "Nerf gun night." It'll bring those in attendance closer together and may even improve your tactical skills.

 

It's on like Donkey Kong!

2. Get someone to step out of their comfort zone

You know that guy or gal in your unit who doesn't fit in too well? A barracks party should be a judgment-free zone, so encourage the introverted homeboy or girl to let their guard down a little and break loose.

Surprises during a party are a good thing. Write that down.

3. It's all about the location

Barracks rooms are typically pretty small and squeezing a dozen or so people inside can get super congested. To maximize the fun, consider choosing a room on the first floor that has easy access to a community courtyard.

It will extend the party area, and therefore increase the life of the fiesta. You'll thank us later.

 

A barrack's courtyard at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Ca.

4. Know where the duty is

As the saying goes, "The Duty Has No Friends."

That statement is kind of true. Since there are different levels (ranks) of duty each day, make sure you're on good terms with them. They can alert you before the MPs show up unannounced because of a reported disturbance.

Make sure you pay them back in the future when you're on duty, and they're the ones throwing a barracks party.

 

You can tell this lance coolie would rather be at a barracks party.

5. Have good lighting

Since barracks rooms are small, look into getting a few black or strobe lights to enhance the positive atmosphere. Consider breaking out your glow belts (because they do glow) and put them to good use.

6. Develop a new drinking game

Beer pong is fun, and everyone knows how to play it. But consider creating a new game to draw people's attention. You never know, your new "upsidedownquarterspong" game could take off.

7. Invite those you trust

Party "buzzkills" suck. No one likes exiting the fun to take care of the sick drunk or a prick that wants to start a fight. So invite the people who have good drinking track records.

8. Record that sh*t! Edit that sh*t! Then screen that sh*t!

It's a lot of fun to see yourself act like a fool. Just be safe. The footage could turn into evidence.

That is all.

What were your barracks parties like?

Feature image: Dreamworks

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