In my prior career with the US Marine Corporation, we used to have "Mess Night," where we would have a formal evening dinner and recount all sorts of our traditions, and above all, have a good time and talk to each other.
There were 3 rules to the conversation you had to follow at all times: NO talking about *work*, NO talking about *religion*, and NO talking about *politics*.
When you didn't discuss these things, everybody had a great time and got to know each other better. In my regular life, I enjoy talking to people, and never bring up any of those 3 things. I'm constantly amazed by people who can't talk about anything other than those 3 things, especially work! I always wonder, why talk about work? I mean I love my job and enjoy it immensely, but I don't want to discuss it with anybody when I'm not at work. Same goes for the other stuff.
Just my $0.02...