Your first LARP event is the biggest step, and it is far less daunting than it looks. This guide covers how to choose a game, what to book, what to pack and what the weekend is actually like, so you arrive knowing what to expect. If you’re completely new to the hobby, start with what is LARP?, our plain-English explainer.
My first event was a small group in Swindon called Caerholm; there were elaborate costumes and a lot going on. But I stuck with it and had a blast. In fact, I played in that system for about 10 years and have loads of great memories.
In this guide
Choosing your first LARP event
Pick something close to home and short. A day game or a small weekend club within an hour or two costs less, requires less kit, and lets you see whether you enjoy it before committing to a big festival. Look through the UK LARP systems directory, open the websites of two or three games near you, and read their new player pages.
Good signs for a first event:
- a clear “new to LARP” or “start here” page
- loaner kit or costume for newcomers
- a short rules summary rather than a huge book
- quick, friendly replies when you email or message them
Play or crew?
For a first LARP event, crewing is worth considering. Crew (monsters) usually pay less, get a costume handed to them, and get to fight, act and see how the game works from behind the scenes. Many long-time players started as monsters. If you would rather play your own character from day one, that is fine too: most games are used to beginners and will help you make one.
Booking and costs
Tickets range from a few pounds for a day game to well over £100 for a festival weekend, and some games charge less for crew, children or early booking. Check what the ticket includes, such as camping, food or a car parking space. Most games also ask you to sign up to their code of conduct, and some ask for a short character form before you arrive.
My first few events cost me nothing at all: I was lent weapons and armour and a costume. Plus, the crew allowed me to play for free to try the system out.
What to pack for your first LARP event
For a weekend, think camping trip plus costume:
- tent, sleeping bag, roll mat and a warm layer for night
- waterproofs and spare socks (it is the UK)
- comfortable boots you can walk and run in
- simple costume: a tunic or loose shirt, plain dark trousers and a belt (see our guide to LARP kit for beginners)
- a water bottle, snacks and any medication
- a torch or headtorch, ideally with a red or warm light
Herofest’s what to bring list is a good example of the kind of kit list most games publish, so check your own game’s version too.
What happens on the day
Most events start with sign-in, a kit and weapon check, and a safety briefing. Listen carefully: this is where you learn the safety call, the areas that are out of character, and any site rules. Then time-in is called, and the game begins.
From there, expect a mix of talking, exploring, fighting and waiting around a campfire for something to happen. That last part is normal and often where the best roleplay is. Ask other players for help in character or out of character: LARPers are generally very welcoming to new people.
For me, I love immersing myself in a good storyline and developing a character. I played a Human Paladin for most of my 10 years and almost reached max level before, sadly, the system closed down for good.
Looking after yourself
Drink water, eat proper meals, and get some sleep. Step out of character and tell a crew member if you are hurt, unwell, or uncomfortable, and use the safety call if anyone is in danger. Nobody minds a pause for safety.
After your first event
Give yourself a day to recover, then write down your character’s story so far while you remember it. If you enjoyed it, book the next one, and start adding to your kit a piece at a time.
After each LARP event, I am buzzing; my mind is awash with thoughts and feelings from the event, and I want to burst with positivity. I just want to tell the world what a great time I had, even if they don’t quite understand it.