Holiday Bingo and Countdown Ideas for Families

The weeks before the holidays can be busy and a bit hectic. A few simple, screen-free activities give the whole family something to do together. None of these need batteries, and most take only a pen and some paper.

Run a bingo game for a crowd

Bingo works for almost any age. Print one card for each player and cut a call list into slips. Draw one slip at a time, and read it aloud. Players mark the matching words on their cards, and the first to complete a row shouts bingo. A few tips:

• Use something small to mark squares: buttons, coins, dried beans, or a crayon.
• Use a free center square so everyone starts with one mark.
• Play several rounds with different patterns, like a full line, four corners or a full card.
• Keep a small prize bowl with stickers or treats for the winners.

For young players, read the words aloud and point to them on the card. Older children can take turns being the caller.

A 24-day countdown with small things to do

Instead of a treat behind every door, give each day a small activity. Ideas that cost little: make hot chocolate, write a note to a neighbor, look at the lights in your area, bake something together, read a story by candlelight, clear out a closet for donations, or have a family game night. Write them on a list and tick them off.

A kindness calendar

Similar to the countdown, but each day is a small act of kindness: hold a door, call someone you have not talked to, leave a thank-you note, share a snack, help with a chore without being asked. Children like checking off each day, and it gives everyone a reason to notice the good things.

A holiday scavenger hunt

Make a list of things to spot: a red bow, a snowman, a string of lights, a wreath, a candle. Give each child a copy and a pencil and take a walk around the neighborhood, or search the house. It is a fun way to get everyone outdoors on a cold afternoon.

Make gift tags together

Print a sheet of tags, cut them out, and let each child write names and colors on them. Punch a hole, add string, and tie them onto gifts. It gives children a part in the wrapping.

All in one printable pack

Our Holiday Bingo and Countdown Pack includes 30 different bingo cards with a call list, a 24-day countdown, a kindness calendar, a scavenger hunt, a wish list and cut-out gift tags. The words are seasonal rather than religious, so it suits many celebrations. Try the free holiday bingo sample first.

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