Happy Hour with Live Guitarist

Purpose of the activity

This activity is designed to provide residents with a relaxing and enjoyable social experience to cap off the week. The primary goals are to foster a sense of community, encourage social interaction among residents, and provide positive sensory stimulation through live music. Hearing familiar songs can also spark positive memories, improve mood, and offer a shared cultural experience that bridges connections.

Materials needed

A professional and engaging guitarist.
A comfortable, armless chair for the guitarist.
Sufficient seating for all residents, arranged to face the musician.
Several small tables for residents to place drinks and snacks on.
Tablecloths and simple, non-intrusive centerpieces for tables.
A designated table for serving food and beverages.
An assortment of non-alcoholic beverages (e.g., sparkling cider, various juices, soda, water with lemon).
Optional alcoholic beverages, served according to community policy (e.g., a choice of red and white wine, beer).
Easy-to-eat finger foods and snacks (e.g., cheese cubes, crackers, fruit platter, pretzels, mini pastries).
Appropriate glassware (plastic or real, depending on community policy).
Small plates and cocktail napkins.
A portable microphone and speaker, if the room is large or the guitarist requires amplification.
A small sign or poster welcoming residents to the Happy Hour.
A current list of resident dietary restrictions and allergies for reference.

Estimated duration

60 to 90 minutes. This allows for a full set of music and ample social time without being overly long or tiring for residents.

Ideal group size

15 to 30 residents. This range is large enough to feel festive but small enough to allow staff to engage personally with attendees and maintain an intimate atmosphere. The size can be adjusted based on the available space.