Why Christmas Games Matter
Christmas is that magical time of year when nostalgia meets chaos. From decking the halls to sneaking extra helpings of pudding, it’s all about creating moments that stick.
And if there’s one surefire way to make everyone laugh, bond, and possibly argue about rules—it’s Christmas games.
Whether you’re hosting a cosy family gathering or throwing a party for the ages, these games will add the sparkle to your festivities. Let’s dive in.
Classic Christmas Games That Never Go Out of Style
Secret Santa
The undisputed king of Christmas games, Secret Santa needs no introduction.
But why stick to the basics when you can take it up a notch? Try themes like “DIY gifts” or add a layer of mystery with cryptic clues about the gifter.
Bonus points if your clues include bad puns—it’s Christmas, after all! For more ideas on Secret Santa themes, check out Minted’s Secret Santa gift guide.
White Elephant
For those unfamiliar, White Elephant is like Secret Santa’s cheekier cousin.
Guests bring quirky, funny, or downright bizarre gifts, and players take turns unwrapping or stealing from others.
Set a budget and watch as Aunt Susan fights over a singing fish plaque. It’s all part of the fun.
Charades – Holiday Edition
You think charades is easy? Try miming “The Twelve Days of Christmas” while your team shouts out everything but the answer.
Holiday-themed charades are an absolute riot, whether you’re acting out Rudolph or trying to depict “snowball fight” without props. Download free charades prompts here.
Fun Family Christmas Games for All Ages
Cookie Decorating Contest
Hand out cookies, frosting, and sprinkles, then set the timer. Who can craft the prettiest snowflake or the most demented gingerbread man?
For an added challenge, pair up family members and blindfold one while the other directs. Hilarity guaranteed.
Reindeer Ring Toss
Grab a reindeer headband (preferably with antlers) and some rings.
One person wears the antlers while the rest try to land rings on them. It’s simple, chaotic, and makes for excellent photo ops.
20 Questions: Christmas Edition
Think of a Christmas-themed object, and let the guessing begin. Can your family figure out “mistletoe” in under 20 questions? It’s a mix of logic, wit, and festive cheer.
High-Energy Christmas Games for Adults and Parties
Christmas Movie Trivia
Split into teams and test everyone’s holiday film knowledge. How many reindeer pull Santa’s sleigh in The Santa Clause?
What’s Kevin’s dad’s first name in Home Alone? For verified trivia questions, use IMDb as a resource. If you know the answers, congratulations—you’re the holiday hero.
Cocktail-Making Contest
Put your guests’ mixology skills to the test. Create stations with ingredients for classic holiday drinks like eggnog or mulled wine.
Not into alcohol? Mocktails work just as well. The winner gets bragging rights (and maybe another drink).
Sweater Contest
Dust off those jumpers with blinking lights and sequins. Award prizes for categories like “Most Outrageous” and “Best DIY.” Let’s be real, the more ridiculous, the better.
Funny Christmas Games
Add a bit of extra humour with games like “Pin the Nose on Rudolph” or “Guess the Christmas Scent.” Blindfolds, bad aim, and festive smells guarantee laughs.
Quick Icebreakers and Minute-to-Win-It Style Christmas Games
Pass the Bow
Like hot potato but with a giant bow. Play festive music, and when it stops, whoever has the bow is out. It’s simple, quick, and a guaranteed hit.
Guess the Christmas Scent
Blindfold participants and have them sniff jars filled with cinnamon, pine needles, or gingerbread.
It’s sensory fun for all ages and surprisingly harder than it sounds.
Plastic Wrap Ball Game
Wrap small gifts and trinkets into layers of cling film, making a giant ball.
Players unwrap as fast as they can while the person next to them rolls dice. When doubles are rolled, the ball passes on. Chaos ensues.
Creative and Themed Christmas Games for Groups
Gingerbread House Competition
Challenge your guests to recreate famous holiday movie houses. Who can best replicate the McCallister house from Home Alone? Add extra points for structural integrity and edible decor.
Name That Tune
Play snippets of holiday songs and see who can guess the title fastest. For the pros, stop the music mid-verse and have them sing the next line. Warning: some attempts will be… creative.
Reindeer Ring Toss
Perfect for group play, this simple game can be scaled up with multiple participants or team challenges. Add a timer to raise the stakes!
Digital Christmas Games for Tech-Savvy Families
Christmas Gravity Runner
This fast-paced online game is perfect for competitive families. Think endless runner, but with a Santa twist.
Ideal for remote gatherings or when the post-dinner energy dip hits. Play it on PrimaryGames.
Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Give a list of items to find around the house—bonus points if it includes random things like a silver bell or a Santa hat. It’s a fun way to get everyone moving without leaving their screens.
How to Pick the Right Christmas Games
- Know your audience: Choose games that suit your crowd. Granny might not enjoy Gingerbread House building, but she’ll crush it in Name That Tune.
- Keep it inclusive: Make sure everyone can join in, from toddlers to the great-grandparents. Use resources like AbilityNet for tips on inclusive activities.
- Prizes are your friend: Even small rewards like candy canes or certificates add extra excitement.
Bringing the Fun Back to the Festive
Christmas games aren’t just about winning (though it’s satisfying). They’re about the memories you create along the way.
So, mix classics with new ideas, embrace the chaos, and let the laughter carry you through the season. Got a unique game idea?
