How to Host a Poker Tournament

Playing poker is a very enjoyable activity and there's no better way to jack up the fun than by hosting your very own poker tournament. Not only is this a great avenue to test and hone your poker skills, this is also a great way to socialize and bond with your family and friends.

Hosting a poker tournament doesn't have to be complicated. What you have to keep in mind though, is that unlike your normal party, a poker game is not "free for all". You have to limit the number of people that you invite - only those who will actually play the game. If you would like to invite other people, you must make sure that a separate area is reserved for them to keep them from distracting those who are playing.

The first rule in hosting a poker tournament is to get the confirmed number of attendees. Make sure that you ask the friends who you invite to RSVP, so you would know exactly how many chairs you will set up for the big tournament night. You would need to take care of this very important detail so that you will know the number of decks you will be needing, the amount of food you will be serving as well as the number of poker chips that should be handy.

For every table, there should be at least two full decks of playing cards. This would speed-up the playing process, as one player can be shuffling the used deck while the fresh one is being dealt. The extra deck also serves as the "security" or back up deck, in case something happens to the other one.

Before starting the game, make sure that you count each deck and that they have 52 cards. The jokers may be needed as well depending on what game you will be playing. After making sure that your cards are complete, give equal distribution of poker chips for every player. In the absence of poker chips, you may use items that you can find around your house that can substitute as betting units like buttons, matchsticks or even M&Ms. Just make sure that every poker player knows the corresponding value of the units.

Make sure that your playing area has sufficient lighting and establish a rule on smoking - to be fair to all, it should be decided if the table will be a smoking table or a non-smoking table. Get your chips and refreshments ready, and then you're ready to welcome the guests in for a nice round of poker!