Bingo may be a game of chance, but don’t tell that to the superstitious players who’ve turned every dab and card shuffle into a lucky ritual. Whether you’re at your local bingo hall or playing online bingo in your pyjamas, you’ll find that many players have quirky habits they believe give them the edge.
From guarding the same seat every week to clutching bizarre lucky charms, the bingo world is full of traditions that are as entertaining as the game itself. Let’s take a look at ten bingo hall superstitions that players absolutely swear by – and who knows, you might end up adopting a few of your own!
1. The Lucky Seat
Some bingo players will arrive early just to secure “their” seat – and heaven help the newbie who unknowingly takes it. Whether it’s by the window, near the caller, or tucked in the back corner, many believe that sitting in the same spot week after week improves their chances. It’s more than comfort – it’s destiny.
2. The Ritual Dabber
You’ll notice many players have a favourite dabber – and they won’t play without it. From bright pink to glittery gold, some even name their dabbers! It’s not unusual to see players bring multiple dabbers… just in case. After all, if it’s been lucky once, it must be lucky again.
3. Touching Cards for Luck
Before the game kicks off, some players gently tap or touch their cards to “bless” them. Whether it’s a quick double-tap, a little rub, or a whispered word of encouragement, these small gestures are believed to bring fortune and focus.
4. Carrying a Lucky Charm
Troll dolls, crystals, miniature teddy bears – the bingo table can look like a shrine of good luck! Many players carry personal trinkets believed to attract wins. Some charms are passed down through families or given as gifts from fellow bingo enthusiasts.
5. Wearing a Lucky Outfit or Accessory
That lucky scarf? Those socks with tiny bingo balls on them? Some outfits are reserved for bingo night only. Players will often wear the same accessory or clothing item if it coincided with a previous win. Fashion may fade, but luck? That sticks.
6. The “Winning Table” Myth
Ever heard someone say, “That table’s lucky tonight”? It’s a common belief that certain areas of the hall have a winning streak. If a player wins from a particular table, others might try to snag that spot in the next game. It’s a bit of bingo feng shui.
7. Avoiding the “Jinxed” Numbers
Just as some numbers are lucky, others are strictly avoided. If a player believes a certain number never gets called, they might steer clear of cards featuring it. Whether it’s personal bad luck or pure coincidence, jinxed numbers are a no-go for some.
8. Positive Energy Only
Some players believe in keeping the vibe upbeat – no moaning, no stress, just good energy. The idea is that negative thoughts can somehow “block” the win. You’ll often hear phrases like, “Think lucky!” or “Keep the good vibes flowing.”
9. No Crossing Legs While Playing
One of the most curious – yet widely believed – superstitions is that crossing your legs during a bingo game blocks your luck. To avoid “crossing out” a potential win, players make a point of keeping their feet flat and open. It might look like a yoga pose, but it’s all part of the ritual!
10. Rituals Before the Game Starts
Whether it’s buying the same snack, saying a silent prayer, or walking around the hall once before sitting down, pre-game routines are taken very seriously. These little rituals help players get into the zone – and feel that Lady Luck is smiling down.
Superstitions might not change the odds, but they definitely make the game more fun. For many bingo lovers, these rituals are part of the joy, camaraderie, and excitement of a night at the hall (or even a session of online bingo from the sofa).
Do you have a bingo superstition you never skip? Or have you witnessed a particularly bizarre one? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media – we’d love to hear your lucky secrets!