Christmas Party Games for Families: Easy Ideas with No Prep

A good party game needs three things: it is easy to explain, anyone can join, and it does not need a shopping trip. These Christmas games all work with paper, pens and a few things you already have at home.

Quiet games for the table

Word searches. A word search works for every age and keeps people occupied while the food is being finished. Give each person a copy and a pen, and see who finds all ten words first. For small children, read the word aloud and point to its first letter.

Word scrambles. Each scramble is a holiday word with the letters mixed up. Play it as a race, or as teams. It is a good game for older children and adults who like puzzles.

Games that get everyone moving

Pass the gift. Everyone sits in a circle and passes a wrapped gift each time they hear the words left or right in a short story. At the end of the story, whoever is holding the gift keeps it. It is loud, funny and works with any group size. A small, inexpensive gift is plenty.

One-minute challenges. Each challenge uses simple things: cookies, paper cups, cotton balls, or a ribbon. Give each player one minute and let the group cheer. Keep the challenges safe and short, and let anyone pass.

Games for conversation

This or that. Give each person a list of choices, such as hot cocoa or eggnog, snowman or snow angel. Everyone circles one answer in each row, and then you compare. It starts a lot of chatter and helps newcomers join in.

Tips for a smooth game night

• Pick three or four games, not ten. Fewer games, played well, are more fun.
• Mix a quiet game with an active one so people can rest.
• Keep a small prize bowl with stickers, candy canes or a small treat.
• Use teams so shy players are not on the spot.
• Keep a pen and a spare copy of each sheet. People always lose their pens.

Keep score simply

A score sheet with the names of teams and a few rounds is enough. Give a point for each correct answer or for finishing first. If you prefer no winners, play for fun and skip the scores.

Printable games to start with

Our Christmas Party Games Pack includes 6 word searches, 6 word scrambles with answer keys, 2 pass-the-gift stories, 2 this-or-that pages, 12 one-minute challenge cards and a score sheet. Try a few first with the free Christmas party games sample.

You can also browse every free sample on the Free Printables page, or see all digital downloads.