How to Play Almost Friday: Drinking Game Rules
By Relatable | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the rules and setup for the Almost Friday card game, a party drinking game with 250 cards and 4 mini-games. Step-by-step instructions for your next gathering.
Quick answer
Almost Friday is a card-based drinking game for adults that brings weekend energy to any party. You'll need the 250-card deck (which includes 4 mini-games plus a Horse Race), drinks, and at least 3 players.
What you need to play
The game comes with 250 cards that include instructions for 4 different mini-games, plus a bonus Horse Race game within the deck. You don't need any extra equipment beyond drinks and a flat surface.
Each mini-game has its own rules printed on the cards, so you can rotate through different styles of play during a single session. The variety keeps the energy up and prevents the game from feeling repetitive.
Who this game works best for
Almost Friday is designed for adult parties, pre-games, birthdays, and holidays. The card-based format works well for groups of 3 to 8 players, though larger groups can take turns or split into teams.
The game relies on reading and following printed instructions, so it's best suited for players who are comfortable with simple card game mechanics. If your group prefers minimal rules and maximum chaos, the Horse Race mini-game is a good starting point.
How to play Almost Friday step by step
- Set up the game: Shuffle the 250-card deck and place it in the center of the table. Each player should have their own drink within easy reach. Decide whether you'll play one mini-game or rotate through multiple. Common mistake: not shuffling thoroughly. Cards are grouped by mini-game, so a light shuffle can lead to back-to-back similar rounds.
- Choose a mini-game to start: Pick one of the 4 mini-games included in the deck. The rules for each are printed on the cards themselves, so you can start playing immediately without memorizing anything beforehand. Checkpoint: read the first instruction card aloud so everyone knows the rules before the round begins.
- Follow the card instructions: Players take turns drawing a card from the center deck and following the action printed on it. Actions may include drinking, assigning drinks, performing a challenge, or passing the turn. Common mistake: skipping a card action because it seems too mild or too wild. Stick to the printed rule to keep the game fair.
- Incorporate the Horse Race mini-game: When the Horse Race cards appear, follow the special instructions to run a side competition within the main game. This adds a betting or racing element that changes the pace. Checkpoint: pause the current mini-game when Horse Race cards come up, then resume after the race concludes.
- Switch mini-games or end the session: After a few rounds or when the deck runs low, you can switch to a different mini-game by reshuffling and drawing a new set of instruction cards. The game ends when players decide to stop or when the deck is fully played through. Common mistake: playing only one mini-game for the whole night. Rotating keeps the energy high and prevents boredom.
Game features at a glance
- Almost Friday — The Card Game: Includes 250 cards and 4 mini-games, plus a wild Horse Race within the game. You get multiple ways to play from a single deck, so the game stays fresh across several rounds or different parties.
Almost Friday — The Card Game
