Tell attendees to pack their magnifying glasses because Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio is offering an intriguing team-building option—murder mystery events for groups. The hotel has partnered with local entertainment company Baker Street Mystery to host the “whodunit” events so attendees can practice their detective skills and figure out which of their coworkers is acting extra suspicious.
“We are thrilled to debut exciting and interactive murder mystery events to meeting planners and groups at the resort,” says Michael Hrabovsky, director of sales, events, and marketing at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, in a prepared statement. “The mystery-themed events are filled with intrigue, entertainment, and delicious food and beverage created by our talented culinary team.”
At the beginning of each mystery event, attendees are given an envelope containing information about the “character” they will be playing during the event and different objectives to accomplish. The host gives a short introduction, and then participants mingle with other characters to set things in motion as their objectives require. The “murder” occurs in the middle of the event, and afterward attendees attempt to figure out who the “killer” is among them. Evidence is presented, a vote is conducted, and lastly, the big reveal is made by the host. Attendees are encouraged to dress up to add to the ambience.
“It’s a lot of fun because you go around and … you get to talk to everyone, mingling around and talking to different people,” says Hyatt Hill Country’s Executive Analyst Jamie Hall, organizer of the murder mystery events. “And, yeah, you’re acting a little goofy because you’re in character. But it’s a fun way to connect everyone instead of just sitting around a table and drinking.”
The hotel hosts murder mystery events that are open to the public, but planners can also arrange private events for groups of at least 20. Themes can be chosen such as “Murder at Margaritaland” or a classic 1920s theme. Hall says her favorites include “Ho, Ho, Homicide,” a festive holiday theme, and a “vineyard” theme that she says pairs well with a fine-dining experience. Planners can also request a customized theme.
As part of the fun, prizes are awarded to the person with the best costume, the best actor, and to the person who correctly solves the crime. The activity can be scheduled with one of the resort’s event or sales representatives.
