Game Review: Festive Board Games for the Holiday Season

🎁 Gift Exchange Games: The Joy of White Elephant and Secret Santa

1. White Elephant

If you’re looking for a fun way to keep everyone on their toes and bring tons of laughter to your holiday gathering, White Elephant Gift Exchange is your ticket to an unforgettable evening! I’ve seen this game single-handedly transform a room full of reserved adults into a lively group full of bargaining, plotting, and laughing so hard they’re crying. It’s one of the most fun indoor Christmas games for large groups, and I’ll tell you exactly why!

What’s the Deal with White Elephant?

At its core, White Elephant is about swapping quirky gifts with each other—sometimes great ones, but often truly bizarre. It’s a little gift-giving and a lot of friendly competition wrapped up with a bow of hilarious unpredictability. The whole point is that it’s not just about getting a “nice” gift; it’s about enjoying the craziness of trading, stealing, and defending random treasures that range from handy to downright absurd.

Last year, my friend brought a “mini cactus in a hat” as their White Elephant gift, and it became the most sought-after item of the night. (People have a soft spot for tiny, cute plants in hats, apparently.) Watching my aunt wrestle the cactus away from my cousin with a serious “it’s mine” expression had us doubled over. It’s just that kind of game—sometimes sweet, sometimes silly, and always memorable.

How to Play White Elephant: Step-by-Step

Whether you’re new to this game or just need a refresher, here’s how to pull off a White Elephant game that’ll leave everyone talking until next Christmas:

Step 1: Set the Gift Rules

First things first, set some gift guidelines. Typically, White Elephant gifts are meant to be affordable and funny, so set a price limit (often $10-$20 works well) and let everyone know whether they should aim for quirky, useful, or “as ridiculous as possible.”

PRO TIP: Remind everyone to wrap their gifts without marking who they’re from—mystery adds to the fun!

Step 2: Draw Numbers to Decide the Gift-Picking Order

Have everyone draw a number from a hat or bowl. The numbers determine the order of who picks and opens a gift. This is important because, in White Elephant, the last person has the most power—they get to choose from all the gifts opened so far!

Funny side note: My uncle was so desperate to pick last one year that he sneakily re-drew his number, only to end up picking… third. He spent the whole game plotting how he could “steal back” the plush narwhal he had his eye on.

Step 3: Time to Open Gifts!

Starting with #1, the first person picks any wrapped gift from the pile and opens it for everyone to see. They have no choice but to keep it… for now.

The second person then gets two options: they can pick a new wrapped gift from the pile, or they can “steal” the gift from player #1 if they like it better. If they steal, player #1 gets to pick another gift from the pile.

Step 4: Steal (or Swap!) Up to Three Times

Here’s where the real fun happens. As each new player’s turn comes around, they can either pick an unopened gift or “steal” one that’s already been opened. To keep it fair (and sane), most people agree on a limit of three “steals” per gift. Once a gift has been stolen three times, it’s “locked” and can’t be taken anymore.

One time, a life-size inflatable flamingo was the highlight of our White Elephant. It was stolen so many times that we had to lock it down because people were not letting it go!

Step 5: The Final Pick

Once everyone has gone, the first player—the one who didn’t get a chance to steal—now has a shot at swapping their gift for any that are still “open.” This twist gives the first person a shot at snagging the most popular item of the night!

2. Secret Santa

Secret Santa is like the holiday season’s answer to stealth mode. There’s something thrilling about being someone’s anonymous gift-giver, figuring out what they’d like without them knowing it’s you. The classic Secret Santa setup ensures that everyone’s included and is perfect for creating warm, thoughtful moments in the middle of all the festive chaos.

Fun Story: One year, I was a Secret Santa for my friend who was obsessed with hot sauces. I spent weeks gathering tiny bottles of exotic hot sauces from around the world and created a “Hot Sauce Advent Calendar.” The look on his face when he found out I was the culprit behind the gift was priceless!

How to Play Secret Santa: The Quick Guide (in Case You’re Inspired!)

If you want to add a little extra cheer to your own holiday gathering, here’s a foolproof way to organize Secret Santa:

1. Gather the Group: Secret Santa works best with at least 4-5 people but gets crazier the more you add!
2. Draw Names: Write everyone’s name on slips of paper and have each person draw a name. Make sure no one draws their own name—and don’t tell anyone who you got!
3. Set a Budget: Agree on a spending limit to keep it fair and fun. It doesn’t have to be much. Some of the best gifts are small, quirky, and personal.
4. Find the Perfect Gift: Think about something funny, meaningful, or downright weird that your “target” will love. Try not to make it too obvious it’s from you.
5. Reveal Time! On the big day, hand out gifts one by one. Let people guess who their Secret Santa might be. It’s more fun if no one knows until after they’ve opened their gifts!

Secret Santa holds a special place in my heart because it combines the thrill of mystery with genuine gift-giving. I love putting thought into each gift, especially when it’s a quirky or meaningful item. My favorite round of Secret Santa was the year of the Hot Sauce Advent Calendar. Watching my friend go through each spicy surprise was hilarious and heartwarming all at once. Secret Santa may not be as boisterous as White Elephant, but it brings a deeper sense of connection that I love sharing with my family and friends.

Trivia-Based Games

🎬 Holiday Movie Trivia 🎬

If your holiday season is never complete without a marathon of classic Christmas movies, Holiday Movie Trivia will be your go-to game this year. Imagine yourself battling it out over questions about George Bailey’s adventures in It’s a Wonderful Life or quoting Buddy the Elf with friends and family—it’s the game for true holiday movie buffs. Gather round with your favorite seasonal snacks, and get ready to prove you know your Jimmy Stewart from your Tim Allen!

One time, I played this with my cousins who are absolute movie buffs. The game turned into a laugh riot because every time someone missed a question about Elf, they had to mimic one of Will Ferrell’s iconic scenes. I realized that this game not only tests your knowledge but also lets you relive the magic of these films with your loved ones.

How to Play:

1. Divide into teams or play solo.
2. Set up a “Trivia Master” who reads the questions.
3. Answer questions in turns. Correct answers earn points.
4. Bonus round: Guess the character or movie from famous quotes!

Perfect for the holidays because it’s all about the movies that bring us that festive feeling. Whether you’re battling over who knows Home Alone best or debating Santa’s best performance, it’s bound to put everyone in a merry spirit.

Playing Holiday Movie Trivia felt like cozying up by a virtual fireplace with all the best Christmas movies flickering before us. The game’s questions ranged from classics like Miracle on 34th Street to more recent hits, and it even stumped my brother, who I was sure had every Christmas movie memorized. I loved how easy it was for everyone to jump in, and even those who didn’t know the answers still enjoyed the playful competition. This game became an instant favorite, and I’m sure it’ll return for future holidays.

🌎 Christmas Around the World Trivia 🌎

Take a holiday journey around the globe with Christmas Around the World Trivia. If you think you know all about seasonal traditions, this game will open your eyes to customs you’ve probably never heard of—like how Australians celebrate with a beach BBQ, or why Ukrainians decorate their Christmas trees with spider webs (spoiler: it’s actually good luck!). You’ll have a blast exploring the diverse ways people celebrate this joyous time of year.

During our first round, one of my friends thought she’d win easily because she’s traveled a lot, but Christmas Around the World Trivia threw us some serious curveballs. Turns out, no one knew the tradition in Japan of eating fried chicken on Christmas! Each round had us laughing and learning, and we even looked up videos of some of the customs afterward.

How to Play:

1. Pick teams or play individually.
2. Set up a quizmaster to read the questions.
3. Points are awarded for correct answers.
4. Bonus questions may involve guessing the country based on a described custom or tradition!

Exploring unique customs from different cultures brings a fresh, educational twist to the holiday table. It’s suitable for Christmas because it deepens everyone’s appreciation for the season and gives a chance to celebrate diverse traditions.

My Experience:
Playing Christmas Around the World Trivia was not only entertaining but also surprisingly enlightening. I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about different cultures, but this game humbled me with questions about everything from Italy’s Feast of the Seven Fishes to how Venezuelans roller-skate to early-morning Christmas Mass. We all learned something new, and it sparked interesting conversations about our own family traditions. It felt like the perfect blend of education and fun, making it a holiday hit.

Active/Physical Games:

Jingle Bell Toss

Ready to test your aim and patience? Jingle Bell Toss takes the classic ring toss and gives it a holiday twist. Players aim to toss jingle bells into festive containers or hoops from a set distance. The jingle of each bell adds excitement and the competitive spirit keeps everyone engaged, especially as players try to one-up each other!

Fun Story: Last year, my cousin couldn’t get a single bell in the container for most of the game, but in one last Hail Mary, he tossed three in a row. It felt like a Christmas miracle—one of those hilarious, memorable moments that made the night.

How to Play:

1. Set up several containers or rings a few feet away from the tossing area.
2. Hand each player a set number of jingle bells.
3. Players take turns tossing bells into the containers. Each container can have a different point value, depending on its difficulty level.
4. The player with the most points wins!

Jingle Bell Toss brings out the inner kid in everyone. It’s competitive but easy enough for kids and adults to enjoy equally. I love that it requires minimal setup and gets people moving without feeling like a workout. Plus, there’s nothing like the satisfying “jingle” when someone finally makes a successful toss!

Santa's Beard Relay (with Cotton Balls)

If you’re looking for laughs, Santa’s Beard Relay is a sure-fire hit! Players have to transfer cotton balls—“Santa’s beard”—from one end of the room to the other, using only a dab of Vaseline on their nose to pick them up. The result? Hilarious faces, silly antics, and tons of holiday cheer!

Fun Story: During our last family Christmas, my aunt, known for her serious demeanor, took her turn at the beard relay. Watching her scuttle across the room with cotton balls clinging to her nose had everyone in stitches. We still talk about her “Santa beard” to this day!

How to Play:

1. Divide players into two teams.
2. Place a bowl of cotton balls at one end of the room and an empty bowl at the other.
3. Each player applies a bit of Vaseline to their nose and uses it to pick up a cotton ball, then runs to drop it in the empty bowl.
4. The first team to transfer all their “beard” wins!

My Experience: Santa's Beard Relay is a riot every time we play it! The sight of everyone with cotton balls stuck to their noses and scrambling to move them without dropping makes the game. It’s one of those rare games that doesn’t take itself too seriously and guarantees a lot of laughs and happy memories.

Candy Cane Olympics

Game Intro: Looking for a mix of mini-games all wrapped up in a candy cane theme? Enter the Candy Cane Olympics! From spoon races to hook-and-hold challenges, this game combines a series of quick events that use candy canes as the main prop, making for an endlessly entertaining experience. Each mini-game is a fun, sweet challenge that brings out everyone’s competitive side!

Fun Story: One of our favorite rounds involves hooking candy canes onto each other without dropping them. My dad went all in and ended up with nearly every candy cane on his arm like a bracelet, making him the unlikely champion that year!

How to Play:

1. Set up several stations, each with a different candy cane challenge (e.g., a relay race holding a candy cane in your mouth, or “fishing” for candy canes by hooking them together).
2. Players go through each challenge, earning points at each station.
3. The player with the highest total score at the end wins!

My Experience: The Candy Cane Olympics turns ordinary candy canes into a full-on event! I love how simple items can turn into challenging props that require balance, speed, and sometimes creativity. Watching everyone struggle to keep candy canes on a spoon while running is just hilarious—and it makes for fantastic photo ops!

Snowball Fight (with Cotton Balls)

Game Intro: Who doesn’t love a snowball fight without the freezing cold? This cotton ball-based snowball fight is the best way to bring some winter magic indoors. It’s fast, easy to set up, and there’s no risk of anyone getting hurt, making it perfect for all ages!

Fun Story: The kids usually get the most into this game, but last year, we adults went all out! The living room turned into a full battlefield with cotton balls everywhere, and at one point, my grandma even joined in, pelting everyone with “snowballs.” It was absolute chaos and pure holiday joy.

How to Play:

1. Divide players into two teams.
2. Use cotton balls as “snowballs” and let the teams throw them at each other.
3. The team with the fewest “snowballs” on their side at the end wins!

My Experience: Snowball Fight is pure, unfiltered fun. There’s nothing complicated about it, and yet it brings everyone together in laughter and excitement. I love how the whole family, from the youngest cousins to my grandma, gets in on the action. The best part? The cleanup is a breeze compared to real snow!

🎈 Christmas Balloon Burst

Game Intro: Looking for a way to add some literal “pop” to your holiday celebration? Christmas Balloon Burst is here to save the day! This game is like an energetic explosion of laughter, strategy, and—let’s be real—a bit of chaos. The goal? Pop as many balloons as possible in the allotted time, with fun twists thrown in for extra challenge. It’s the ultimate game for those who like fast-paced action and don’t mind a little mess.

Fun Story: The first time I played Christmas Balloon Burst, my uncle got so into it that he ended up slipping on a balloon and falling right into the Christmas tree. The look of shock (followed by laughter) on his face was priceless—and thankfully, he was fine!

How to Play:

1. Preparation: Inflate a bunch of balloons and, if you want to add an extra twist, place small notes inside a few of them with “prizes” or challenges.
2. Set the Timer: Decide on a time limit—usually between 1-2 minutes.
3. Start the Game: Players must use only their feet to stomp and pop as many balloons as they can.
4. Winner Announcement: The player who pops the most balloons (or finds the most “prize” notes) wins!

My Experience: Christmas Balloon Burst brings out the competitive kid in everyone. I love that it’s a physical game that keeps everyone on their feet and is a perfect icebreaker for all ages. The excitement of each pop and the race against time adds a burst of energy to any holiday gathering. For me, it’s the simple setup and endless laughter that make this game a must-have for Christmas parties.

🎄 Ornament on a Spoon Race

Game Intro: Get ready to test your balance, concentration, and a bit of luck with the Ornament on a Spoon Race! It’s a holiday twist on the classic egg-and-spoon race, where participants must carefully balance a Christmas ornament on a spoon as they race to the finish line. The stakes are high as ornaments are fragile, and the holiday decor keeps everyone feeling festive.

Fun Story: Last Christmas, my cousin thought he had the Ornament on a Spoon Race in the bag until he started overconfidently racing to the finish line. His ornament slipped, and in his frantic recovery, he ended up tripping over his own feet—taking the “grand” fall with it! We were all in tears laughing.

How to Play:

1. Setup: Give each player a spoon and a lightweight, unbreakable ornament.
2. Create a Race Path: Mark a starting line and a finish line (or make it a relay race for teams).
3. Start Balancing: Players must balance their ornaments on the spoon while walking (or running!) to the finish.
4. Race to the Finish: The first player to cross the finish line with their ornament intact wins! If the ornament falls, the player has to return to the start and begin again.

My Experience: The Ornament on a Spoon Race is a holiday classic for me. It’s fun to watch as everyone concentrates with absolute intensity, only to lose balance at the last second. This game really brings out the holiday cheer, and the laughter as people stumble and recover makes it unforgettable. Plus, I love how easy it is to set up—just grab some spoons and ornaments, and you’re good to go!

🎁 Present Wrap Race

Game Intro: If you've ever had a last-minute rush to wrap gifts before guests arrive, then you're already familiar with the frantic energy of the Present Wrap Race. This game transforms the usual holiday chore into an all-out speed competition. Imagine everyone laughing and struggling as they try to cut, tape, and wrap under the pressure of the ticking clock! It’s fast-paced, it’s messy, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next holiday party.

Fun Story: One Christmas, my cousin, known for his perfectionism, got so absorbed in trying to make his gift look flawless that he lost the game entirely. Meanwhile, my young niece simply wadded paper around her present and slapped on tape haphazardly—and won! The sight of her “wrapped” gift was a highlight of the night, proving that sometimes, speed really does beat style.

How to Play:

1. Prepare the Gifts: Each player is given an unwrapped item to wrap. Small boxes or any holiday trinkets work well.
2. Set the Timer: Players have a set amount of time (usually 1-2 minutes) to wrap their gift as quickly—and neatly—as possible.
3. Begin the Race! Start the timer, and everyone begins wrapping at once. For an extra challenge, require players to wrap with one hand or blindfolded!
4. Judge the Results: At the end of the round, judges award points for both speed and creativity. Players with the neatest or funniest results get extra points.
5. Winner Declared: The person with the highest score after several rounds is crowned the Wrap Race Champion.

My Experience: Present Wrap Race never fails to make everyone laugh. I especially love it because it’s simple to set up, and it brings out everyone’s unique wrapping style—some people go for speed, others for beauty, and some… well, they just try to get the job done! It’s also a surprisingly good icebreaker; watching a group of people stumble over tape and paper is a surefire way to get everyone talking. For our family, this game has become a holiday tradition, and we’re always on the lookout for funny new twists, like “no thumbs allowed.” It’s lighthearted, fast, and brings just the right amount of holiday chaos.

Creative/Artistic Games:

🎄 Christmas Cookie Decorating Contest

Ever found yourself in a cookie coma during Christmas, surrounded by the remnants of gingerbread and frosting? This game takes that experience to the next level by turning cookie decorating into a friendly competition! Here, each player receives a set of blank cookies (like gingerbread or sugar cookies) and an arsenal of decorating materials—think icing in every color, sprinkles, tiny edible glitter, and maybe a few candy snowflakes. Then, let the decorating madness begin!

How to Play:

1. Set Up: Lay out a decorating station with enough cookies, icing bags, and toppings for each player.
2. The Challenge: Give everyone a theme for their cookies (like “Christmas Wonderland” or “Snowman Central”), or let them go wild with their own ideas.
3. Time Limit: Set a timer for each round (10-15 minutes works well) and let everyone unleash their creative side.
4. Judging: After decorating, let an impartial “judge” (or group vote) decide the winner based on creativity, neatness, or holiday spirit.
5. Eat and Enjoy: The best part? You get to devour the results! Everyone wins when cookies are involved.

My Experience: I loved this one! There’s just something magical about combining the sweet scent of cookies with a hint of competition. The best part was watching everyone’s masterpieces slowly melt or crumble in their hands as they were devoured. My favorite moment? Watching my niece, age six, design an “abstract” snowman that mostly involved covering her cookie in blue frosting. This game is all about festive fun with zero pressure!

✉️ Christmas Card Making Contest

Next up is a game that brings back the old-school charm of Christmas cards! Who doesn’t love receiving a handmade card full of glitter, holiday cheer, and a dash of creativity? This game gives each player a mini-studio setup to create the most amazing Christmas card they can imagine, with glitter, markers, and stickers galore.

How to Play:

1. Set Up: Provide each player with a blank card and a variety of art supplies—think stickers, glitter, markers, and holiday-themed stamps.
2. Theme Options: Pick a theme (like “Winter Wonderland” or “Vintage Christmas”) or let players make it up as they go.
3. Time Limit: Give players around 15-20 minutes to design their cards.
4. Voting: Vote on categories like “Most Festive,” “Most Original,” or “Funniest.”
5. Gift the Cards: After judging, consider swapping the cards among players or gifting them to others.

My Experience: I’m not usually the arts-and-crafts type, but this game was a blast! I didn’t win the “Most Festive” award (apparently, my snowman looked “unsettling”), but I loved the creativity and the laughter that came with seeing everyone’s masterpieces. We ended up with a whole batch of cards to send to relatives, which made it feel extra special.

🎄 Christmas Tree Dress-Up Challenge

Imagine decorating a Christmas tree—but with yourself as the tree! This wild, out-of-the-box game lets you and your family or friends become the “Christmas trees” for a change. Think tinsel, ornaments, and maybe a bit of Christmas lights wrapped around a willing participant or two.

How to Play:

1. Gather Materials: Make sure you have enough decorations for each “tree” player (lights, tinsel, small ornaments).
2. Tree Stand-ins: Pick who will become the “trees” for the round (usually 1-2 people).
3. Decorating Time: The remaining players get 10-15 minutes to decorate the chosen “tree” players.
4. Photo Moment: Snap some photos for laughs and memories.
5. Judging: Choose the best “Christmas tree” based on creativity, humor, or the level of holiday spirit.

My Experience: This game was easily the show-stealer of the night! I got wrapped up in lights and decked out in ornaments, and by the end, I looked like the most ridiculous Christmas tree ever. We couldn’t stop laughing, and the pictures alone are worth it. It was an unforgettable, joy-filled experience that set the holiday mood like no other game.

Performance Games:

Holiday Karaoke

Game Intro: Think you’ve got the pipes to do justice to “All I Want for Christmas Is You”? Holiday Karaoke lets everyone choose a favorite Christmas tune and perform their heart out. Whether you’re an actual singing star or just having fun, this game is bound to keep the crowd entertained. Plus, the nostalgia of holiday songs takes everyone back to the magic of Christmases past.

Fun Story: Last Christmas, my dad—usually the quiet type—got up and sang “Last Christmas” by Wham! with such dramatic flair that the whole room erupted in applause. He even threw in a few dance moves that we had no idea he could pull off!

How to Play:

1. Set up a karaoke machine or use a karaoke app on a phone or tablet.
2. Let each player choose their favorite Christmas song to perform.
3. Encourage everyone to sing along for extra fun, especially during classic songs!
4. Award bonus points for creativity, costume props, or dance moves.

My Experience: Holiday Karaoke is my go-to party game because it’s inclusive and instantly puts everyone in a festive mood. I love seeing people choose songs that bring back memories and even do their own unique renditions. Nothing brings the family closer than belting out “Jingle Bell Rock” together, whether on-key or not. For me, it’s all about the laughter and the shared joy of music.

Christmas Carol Sing-Off

Game Intro: The Christmas Carol Sing-Off adds a competitive twist to classic caroling. This game splits players into teams to see who can deliver the most memorable (or ridiculous) rendition of a Christmas classic. With everyone trying to outdo each other, the result is a hilarious holiday showdown that celebrates the spirit of Christmas music in the best way possible!

Fun Story: During one Sing-Off, my team decided to do a rock-inspired version of “Silent Night,” complete with air guitars and wild headbanging. The other team countered with an opera-style version of “Deck the Halls” that had everyone in tears from laughing so hard. It’s become a legendary family moment we still talk about!

How to Play:

1. Divide players into two or more teams.
2. Each team chooses a Christmas carol and a theme or style (e.g., rock, opera, country, etc.).
3. Teams take turns performing their version of the carol, and players can even add props or costumes.
4. An audience or designated judge decides which team has the most entertaining performance!

My Experience: The Christmas Carol Sing-Off brings out the creativity in everyone. I love that it’s not about singing talent but about how much fun you can make your performance. Themed performances turn even the simplest carol into a mini spectacle, and watching my friends and family come up with unexpected twists on classic songs makes it a highlight of every holiday season.

Holiday Lip Sync Battle

Game Intro: For those who might be shy about singing live, the Holiday Lip Sync Battle offers a way to shine without uttering a single note. Players pick a holiday song to lip sync, adding in dance moves, over-the-top expressions, and sometimes even costumes. With no vocal skill required, this game is all about the theatrics—and that’s what makes it so entertaining.

Fun Story: Last year, my cousin pulled out all the stops for a lip sync performance of “Santa Baby,” complete with a Santa hat and faux fur coat. She nailed the lyrics, exaggerating every line, and had the whole room rolling with laughter. We dubbed her the holiday MVP!

How to Play:

1. Players pick a Christmas song and “perform” it, lip-syncing the lyrics and using props or costumes if desired.
2. Encourage everyone to play up the dramatics! Bonus points for over-the-top expressions and moves.
3. Spectators vote on the most entertaining performance, crowning the holiday lip-sync champion.

My Experience: Holiday Lip Sync Battle is hands down one of my favorite games. It lets people be silly and expressive without the pressure of actual singing, which is perfect for shy participants. I’ve seen everything from perfectly choreographed routines to impromptu goofy dancing, and it all adds to the hilarity. Nothing quite beats watching family and friends go all out, especially when they get into character—it’s the kind of unfiltered fun that makes Christmas unforgettable.

Christmas Pictionary

Game Intro: Christmas Pictionary combines the classic drawing game with a seasonal twist, challenging players to sketch out holiday-related words and phrases. Think of trying to draw something as abstract as “Holiday Spirit” or as iconic as “Santa’s Sleigh” under the pressure of a timer! Watching family members attempt to illustrate these ideas is half the fun, especially when “snowman” starts looking suspiciously like a bowling pin.

Fun Story: One Christmas, I was tasked with drawing “Elf on the Shelf.” My drawing ended up looking like a cross between a scarecrow and a doll, but somehow, my team guessed it immediately. We still laugh about the “haunted” elf every holiday season.

How to Play:

1. Divide players into two teams.
2. One player from each team draws a card or picks a holiday-related word from a list.
3. That player has 1 minute to draw the word or phrase while their team tries to guess it.
4. If they guess correctly within the time limit, the team earns a point.
5. Continue until every player has had a chance to draw, and the team with the most points wins!

My Experience: Christmas Pictionary is always a highlight of our holiday gatherings. I love how it gets everyone—even the worst artists—involved and laughing together. One of my favorite memories was watching my uncle, a notoriously terrible artist, try to draw “candy cane.” It ended up looking like a squiggly line, but somehow, we guessed it and erupted in cheers. There’s something about Christmas Pictionary that makes everyone feel like a kid again, which is exactly what the holidays are all about.

Christmas Charades

Game Intro: Christmas Charades takes the classic acting game and adds a holiday twist, challenging players to mime everything from classic Christmas songs to festive activities. Whether you’re pretending to be Rudolph or mimicking “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” the game is an exercise in both creativity and communication. It’s ideal for groups who love a bit of drama, laughter, and holiday spirit.

Fun Story: One year, my cousin acted out “Deck the Halls,” which we interpreted as him frantically hanging ornaments all over an imaginary tree. He was so committed that he ended up draping himself in tinsel. His dramatic performance earned him the unofficial title of “Christmas Charades MVP” that year.

How to Play:

1. Divide players into two teams.
2. A player from Team A draws a card with a holiday-related phrase or activity.
3. Without using words, the player has 1 minute to act out the phrase while their team guesses.
4. If the team guesses correctly, they earn a point.
5. Rotate between teams until everyone has had a chance to perform. The team with the most points at the end wins!

My Experience: Christmas Charades never fails to bring out the holiday spirit! There’s something about seeing friends and family attempt to mime “Santa stuck in the chimney” or “Jingle Bells” that just makes the whole room come alive with laughter. My favorite part of Christmas Charades is the creativity that comes out when people have to act out these ridiculous scenarios. It’s a great way to get everyone moving and laughing, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults.

🕵️‍♀️ Detection Games: Guess the Christmas Smell, Holiday Password, and Name That Christmas Tune

Detection games add an element of mystery and skill to holiday gatherings, encouraging everyone to use their senses and quick thinking to win. With games like Guess the Christmas Smell, Holiday Password, and Name That Christmas Tune, players get to sniff, describe, and listen their way to victory. These games add just the right amount of challenge and are perfect for groups who love a bit of playful competition. Here’s why they should make an appearance at your next holiday party!

Guess the Christmas Smell

Game Intro: In Guess the Christmas Smell, players rely on their noses to identify various holiday scents. From cinnamon to peppermint and pine, these smells make us think of cozy winter nights and holiday baking. This game is a perfect sensory experience, and it’s fun watching players try to identify scents with nothing but a sniff. Some are easy to guess; others may surprise you!

Fun Story: Last Christmas, we played Guess the Christmas Smell, and my aunt swore one of the scents was “gingerbread,” when it was actually “cinnamon.” She refused to believe she got it wrong and insisted she could smell the “ginger!” It was such a fun, silly moment that we still laugh about.

How to Play:

1. Gather several holiday-themed scents in small containers.
2. Blindfold each player or ask them to close their eyes.
3. Hold a scent under the player’s nose and have them guess what it is. Give each player one try per scent.
4. For each correct guess, award a point. Continue with the remaining scents.
5. The player with the most correct guesses wins!

My Experience: Guess the Christmas Smell has quickly become a family favorite. There’s something so heartwarming and nostalgic about being able to smell all the classic holiday scents, especially when you’re trying to identify them with your eyes closed! I also love how the game brings everyone together and creates a cozy, festive atmosphere. It’s always fun to see who can guess the scents correctly and who hilariously gets it wrong.

Holiday Password

Game Intro: Holiday Password is a word-guessing game with a festive twist! Players take turns giving clues to help their teammates guess Christmas-themed words. It’s a fantastic way to test everyone’s quick thinking and word association skills. The challenge lies in giving clues that are both creative and helpful without making it too obvious. It’s fast-paced, funny, and an awesome choice for a competitive holiday crowd.

Fun Story: One year, my dad tried to get us to guess “snowman” by saying, “It’s what happens when you can’t find a snow shovel.” We had no idea what he meant and ended up guessing everything but snowman. He’s now banned from giving cryptic clues!

How to Play:

1. Divide players into teams of two.
2. One player from each team picks a card with a Christmas-themed word.
3. The player gives one-word clues to their teammate to help them guess the word without saying it.
4. Each team has 30 seconds to guess the word. If they guess correctly, they earn a point.
5. Alternate between teams until everyone has had a turn. The team with the most points wins!

My Experience: I love Holiday Password because it’s a game that brings out everyone’s competitive side while keeping the holiday vibes alive. There’s a special thrill in finding just the right word to help your partner guess correctly without giving it away too easily. It’s fun to watch people’s faces as they try to make connections from clues and to see the creative hints people come up with. This game always gets us laughing, and it’s become a Christmas staple for our family.

Name That Christmas Tune

Game Intro: Name That Christmas Tune challenges players’ knowledge of classic holiday songs. It’s amazing how quickly some people can identify a tune after just a few notes, while others might need the whole chorus. This game is perfect for music lovers and anyone who feels nostalgic about holiday music. It’s both competitive and heartwarming, bringing back memories tied to each song.

Fun Story: My mom has an uncanny ability to guess songs after just two seconds of listening. When she guessed “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” before the intro even finished, we were all in awe. It’s now become a running joke that she’s a Christmas music encyclopedia.

How to Play:

1. Create a playlist of popular Christmas songs.
2. Play a short snippet of each song, starting with just a few seconds.
3. Players take turns guessing the song title and artist. If they guess correctly, they earn a point.
4. If they can’t guess, play a few more seconds of the song and give others a chance.
5. The player with the most correct guesses wins!

My Experience: Name That Christmas Tune is a game that’s close to my heart because I’m a huge fan of holiday music. This game has a way of bringing back memories, as every song reminds me of past Christmases and family traditions. It’s always fun seeing who’s the fastest at recognizing a song—and watching as others confidently shout out the wrong title! It’s the kind of game that instantly puts everyone in a festive mood, which is why it’s always on our Christmas game list.

🕵️‍♂️ Hunt Games: Elf on the Shelf Hunt, Christmas Scavenger Hunt, and Candy Cane Hunt

Hunt games take the excitement of hide-and-seek and add a holiday twist, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. From finding mischievous elves to hunting down hidden candy canes, these games combine action, surprise, and a bit of strategy. Perfect for chilly winter days indoors or a fun holiday activity for Christmas morning, these hunt games bring out the thrill of discovery and keep the holiday energy high.

Elf on the Shelf Hunt

Game Intro: If you’re familiar with the mischievous Elf on the Shelf tradition, this game is bound to be a hit. Each morning (or night, depending on your audience), the elf hides somewhere new, and it’s up to the players to find him! Whether the elf is nestled in the Christmas tree or hiding behind the cookie jar, every discovery is another dose of holiday cheer. The game’s simple yet exciting concept makes it a favorite, especially with younger kids.

Fun Story: Last Christmas, we hid our Elf on the Shelf so well that we almost forgot where he was! My nephew found him perched inside a light fixture, looking down like a festive little spy. The search was on, and the giggles were non-stop!

How to Play:

1. Choose a starting time (morning or night works best).
2. Hide the Elf on the Shelf in a creative, somewhat challenging spot.
3. Players search for the elf until they find him.
4. Re-hide the elf in a new spot each day or each round to keep the game going all season long!

My Experience: The Elf on the Shelf Hunt has quickly become a family tradition. I love how it brings a magical, mischievous element to the house that makes everyone feel like a kid again. Watching the little ones light up as they search for that sneaky elf is always a highlight of the season. It’s also great for sparking creativity as you come up with new hiding spots each day.

Christmas Scavenger Hunt

Game Intro: A Christmas Scavenger Hunt is the ultimate holiday adventure, combining clues, riddles, and holiday-themed items to create a hunt like no other. This game can be customized to any setting, whether you’re staying in or braving the cold outside. From ornaments to candy canes, each clue leads to a new discovery, and by the end, players are filled with a sense of holiday accomplishment. It’s a great way to get everyone involved, regardless of age!

Fun Story: Last year, we planned a Christmas Scavenger Hunt that led to a grand “treasure” hidden in our garage. The kids expected a small treat but were overjoyed when they found a massive candy-filled Christmas stocking. The excitement was priceless!

How to Play:

1. Prepare a list of holiday-themed clues leading players from one spot to the next.
2. Hide each clue in strategic spots around your home or yard.
3. Begin with the first clue, which leads players on a trail of hints to the final treasure.
4. The first team or player to find the final treasure wins!

My Experience: The Christmas Scavenger Hunt is always a crowd-pleaser. I enjoy how it encourages teamwork and problem-solving in a festive way. Planning the clues is almost as much fun as watching everyone search, especially when they start coming up with creative guesses for each hint. Seeing kids and adults work together, laughing and guessing, is exactly what the holidays are about.

Candy Cane Hunt

Game Intro: Candy canes are a Christmas staple, and the Candy Cane Hunt brings a sugary twist to hide-and-seek! Players search high and low for hidden candy canes, collecting as many as they can. The game’s beauty lies in its simplicity—no clues or complicated rules, just the excitement of searching and collecting. It’s perfect for young kids or even for adults who want to let loose and feel like kids again. And of course, the reward is as sweet as it gets!

Fun Story: A few years back, we had a Candy Cane Hunt on Christmas Eve. My cousin hid a few “bonus” candy canes in odd spots, like inside boots and behind picture frames, and watching everyone scramble around the room was hilarious. Those hidden candy canes became prized possessions!

How to Play:

1. Hide candy canes around a designated area.
2. Set a timer for 5-10 minutes, and let players search for as many candy canes as they can find.
3. The player who finds the most candy canes (or a special “golden” candy cane, if desired) wins.
4. Let everyone enjoy their treats as a reward!

My Experience: The Candy Cane Hunt is a simple game, but it’s surprisingly fun for all ages. I love how it brings out the kid in everyone, and it’s great for getting everyone moving and laughing. There’s something so festive about finding those little candy canes hidden around, and I always look forward to this game as a quick, lighthearted holiday tradition.

🎄 Classic Games with a Christmas Twist: Christmas Bingo, Pin the Nose on Rudolph, Holiday Musical Chairs, and Santa Says

Sometimes the best holiday memories are made by putting a festive spin on the games we’ve loved for ages. These classic games with Christmas twists add excitement, laughter, and nostalgia to any holiday gathering. Whether it's trying to pin Rudolph's nose, dancing around chairs to carols, or taking orders from "Santa," these games are designed to keep everyone, from kids to grandparents, entertained and in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Bingo

Game Intro: Christmas Bingo brings the charm of traditional bingo with a merry twist. Instead of numbers, each square has holiday-themed images or phrases like “candy cane,” “stocking,” and “snowflake.” With festive markers, this game has everyone calling “Bingo!” with a bit of extra cheer, and it’s especially great for those who love a casual, easy-to-play game. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to keep everyone entertained while munching on holiday treats.

Fun Story: Last year, my cousin decided to make it a “themed bingo,” bringing ridiculous holiday hats for everyone to wear. By the end, we were playing bingo dressed as a reindeer, snowman, and even Santa himself. It definitely made for some memorable photos!

How to Play:

1. Hand out a Christmas Bingo card and markers to each player.
2. Draw and call out the Christmas-themed items from a hat or bag.
3. Players mark off called items that match their cards.
4. The first to complete a row, column, or diagonal yells “Bingo!” and wins a prize.
5. Keep playing with different Bingo patterns to keep the excitement going!

My Experience: Christmas Bingo has become one of our family’s go-to holiday games. It’s easy to set up and lets everyone relax and play without needing a lot of rules. I love the festive touch of using holiday symbols instead of numbers, and it’s always hilarious to see everyone get so competitive over a bingo win. Plus, it gives everyone an excuse to sit around the table and enjoy each other’s company.

Pin the Nose on Rudolph

Game Intro: A twist on the classic “Pin the Tail on the Donkey,” Pin the Nose on Rudolph invites players to attempt to give Rudolph his signature red nose while blindfolded. This one is a blast, especially with kids, as it’s a mix of skill and pure luck. And with a Christmas twist, it’s much more festive (and silly!). Watching family members spin around and try to “find” Rudolph’s face adds endless laughter.

Fun Story: We decided to play Pin the Nose on Rudolph with my little cousin last year, and she ended up pinning Rudolph’s nose on a potted plant instead of the wall. It’s still a joke in our family that Rudolph got “lost in the garden!”

How to Play:

1. Place a large picture of Rudolph on the wall.
2. Give each player a red sticker or paper “nose.”
3. Blindfold each player, spin them gently, and let them attempt to place the nose on Rudolph’s face.
4. The player who gets the closest wins!

My Experience: I love Pin the Nose on Rudolph because it’s silly and interactive, which makes it perfect for family gatherings. Watching everyone try (and fail) to place the nose correctly is hilarious, especially when the nose ends up on Rudolph’s antlers or far off on the wall. It’s a simple game, but it’s those moments that make for the best memories.

Holiday Musical Chairs

Game Intro: Holiday Musical Chairs brings all the fun of the classic game with a playlist of Christmas carols to keep everyone moving. Picture this: everyone racing around the chairs to “Jingle Bells” or “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” When the music stops, the scramble to grab a chair is on! This one is an absolute laugh-fest and great for groups of all ages. It adds a competitive edge to the festivities and is a wonderful way to burn off those holiday cookies.

Fun Story: One Christmas, my aunt almost won Holiday Musical Chairs but got a little too excited and tripped, sending us all into fits of laughter. She’s still the reigning “almost-champion,” and we’ve made it a point to play every year since.

How to Play:

1. Arrange chairs in a circle, with one fewer chair than the number of players.
2. Start playing Christmas music and have players walk around the chairs.
3. When the music stops, each player scrambles for a chair. The one left standing is out.
4. Remove one chair and continue until only one player remains—the winner!

My Experience: There’s something magical about adding Christmas music to Musical Chairs. It’s as if the songs give everyone that extra boost of energy! Watching everyone, from kids to grandparents, get competitive over chairs is priceless. This game always leaves us in fits of laughter, and it’s one of the best ways to kick up the holiday spirit.

Santa Says

Game Intro: A festive take on “Simon Says,” Santa Says keeps everyone on their toes as they follow Santa’s commands—only if he says “Santa says,” of course! This game is ideal for young kids, but even adults get a kick out of it, especially as the commands get funnier or sillier. It’s a perfect mix of concentration and whimsy, and it’s guaranteed to spark holiday laughter with a healthy dose of friendly competition.

Fun Story: Last holiday season, we decided to play Santa Says, and my little niece was the only one who kept up, even as everyone else kept getting caught out. She now considers herself “Santa’s right-hand helper,” and we still laugh about it!

How to Play:

1. Choose one person to be “Santa.”
2. Santa gives commands, starting with “Santa says…” (e.g., “Santa says touch your nose”).
3. Players must follow only if “Santa says…” precedes the command. Otherwise, anyone who follows the command is out.
4. The last player remaining wins.

My Experience: Santa Says is one of those games that’s just so fun to watch—and even more fun to play. The Christmas theme makes it extra special, and watching everyone mess up, even adults, is hilarious. It’s also a great game for mixed-age groups, since it’s simple enough for kids but still challenging enough for everyone to enjoy.

🎄 Quick Challenge Games: Minute to Win It Christmas Games, Holiday Paper Airplane Contest, and Christmas Word Chain

Get ready to bring the high-energy chaos of Minute to Win It to your holiday party! These quick-challenge games are perfect for family gatherings where everyone is eager to show off their silly side and battle it out in rapid rounds of holiday-themed tasks. With only a minute on the clock, players are racing against both time and each other, bringing just the right amount of competitive spirit to Christmas.

Minute to Win It Christmas Games

Game Intro: Imagine a series of mini-games with all the Christmas spirit but ten times the speed! These games test your ability to do simple tasks with a festive twist: stacking Christmas cookies, transferring jingle bells with chopsticks, or balancing marshmallows on candy canes. And with only 60 seconds to do each, the fun is as intense as it is hilarious.

Fun Story: Last Christmas, I watched my uncle frantically try to stack five marshmallows on his nose in one of these challenges. He almost got them all balanced—right before sneezing and sending them flying!

How to Play:

1. Select a variety of Christmas-themed challenges, such as:
   • Stacking Christmas cookies as high as possible.
   • Moving jingle bells from one bowl to another with chopsticks.
   • Balancing marshmallows on candy canes.
2. Each player or team has just 1 minute to complete each task as quickly and accurately as possible.
3. Rotate challenges for a full game experience, scoring points for each successfully completed round.
4. The player or team with the most points at the end wins!

My Experience: I love Minute to Win It Christmas Games because they get everyone laughing and cheering, and they bring a unique excitement to holiday gatherings. The simple setup makes it easy to play, and the one-minute timer adds just the right amount of pressure for a thrilling holiday showdown. It’s amazing how these mini-challenges can turn the simplest tasks into the ultimate holiday showdown!

Holiday Paper Airplane Contest

Game Intro: Paper airplanes are fun on their own, but in a holiday setting? Even better! The Holiday Paper Airplane Contest is all about crafting Christmas-themed paper planes, decorating them with holiday colors, and trying to fly them the farthest. It’s a lighthearted game for both kids and adults, with a bit of holiday engineering involved!

Fun Story: I’ll never forget last year when my nephew folded an “unbreakable” Santa plane—it crash-landed after barely a foot. But the laughs we shared watching him try to “fix” it by adding more tape were priceless!

How to Play:

1. Provide each player with a sheet of paper, markers, and optional holiday stickers.
2. Players fold and decorate their planes with a Christmas theme.
3. Set a launch line and have players take turns flying their planes.
4. The plane that travels the farthest distance wins!

My Experience: This game is a delightful and easy activity that lets everyone be creative while bringing out a bit of holiday magic. Kids especially love the crafting aspect, while adults get surprisingly competitive. I find it’s a great way to have a more relaxed yet entertaining game in the mix.

Christmas Word Chain

Game Intro: Think you know every Christmas word in the book? Christmas Word Chain puts your holiday vocabulary to the test in a fast-paced game of words. The goal? Keep the Christmas words flowing, with each new word starting with the last letter of the previous word. It's simple, but the pressure builds quickly as players scramble to come up with the next word. Great for larger groups, this game can get everyone shouting holiday words with a surprising amount of intensity!

Fun Story: One round, my mom got stuck after “Yule” and panicked, blurting out “Eagle.” We still tease her about Christmas eagles every year!

How to Play:

1. The first player says a Christmas-related word, like “Santa.”
2. The next player has to say a Christmas word that starts with the last letter of the previous word, such as “Angel.”
3. Continue around the circle. If a player takes too long or repeats a word, they’re out.
4. The game continues until only one player remains!

My Experience: Christmas Word Chain is a surprisingly challenging game that brings out everyone’s competitive side. I especially love how it pushes you to think of the obscure holiday terms that only come to mind once a year. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those moments when you want something low-key but still tons of fun.