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by Erika Albertini, PT, DPT December 21, 2023 12 min read

Fun Holiday Games & Tips for the Whole Family

Summary:

As the holiday season draws near, whether you’re planning cozy indoor festivities or embracing the winter wonderland outdoors, there's always something for everyone. I have some excellent ideas to make your festive celebrations more fun and exciting with joyous games and activities that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, I'm spilling the beans on tips to ensure your holiday bash is a smashing success. Get ready to mix it up, embrace friendly competition, and capture those unforgettable moments. So, are you ready to make this holiday season the most entertaining and memorable one yet?

There's no better time to gather the family and indulge in joyous games and activities to create lasting memories than the Holidays. It's the season for embracing our family traditions and creating new ones. An article by  PsychCentral says that Holiday traditions become an essential aspect of how we celebrate, and there is a reason why we keep them as a part of our lives for so long. Simply put, we hold onto holiday traditions because they add meaning to our celebrations and help us bond with those we love. 

Whether you're celebrating indoors or embracing the winter chill outdoors, there are plenty of options to keep everyone engaged.  In this guide, we'll explore a mix of traditional and modern holiday games suitable for all ages, ensuring your holiday season is filled with laughter and joy.

INDOOR FESTIVITIES:

  1. Host Holiday Family Trivia:  How about hosting a Holiday Family Trivia night? Get to know the faces around the table better. When everyone arrives, have them jot down a fun fact about themselves. After dessert or during some downtime, take turns sharing these facts; the challenge is for everyone to guess who each fact belongs to. It's a game and a bonding experience all wrapped up in one festive package.
  2. Oven Mitts Game:  Here's a fun idea…how about trying the Oven Mitts Game when you open your gifts? It adds a hilarious twist to the unwrapping process. Trust me, it's as challenging as it sounds! Plus, it'll make everyone slow down and savor the excitement of tearing into their presents. And the best part? You’ll end up with some fantastic and funny photos to remember the moment.

A young woman delights in the joy of unwrapping her gift, skillfully navigating the task with oven mitts on.

How about trying the Oven Mitts Game when you open your gifts?


  1. Saran Wrap Game:  It's perfect for groups of four or more. Progressively wrap up small toys, candy, gag gifts, or even cash into a massive ball of plastic wrap. Have your guests stand or sit around the table and pass it around.  A timekeeper says when the ball needs to move to the next person. Imagine the laughs as everyone takes turns trying to unwrap it to score fun prizes. It's a hilarious game that'll have guests of all ages giggling. What do you think? 
  2. Five-Second Rule:  Here's the deal: each player has five seconds to respond to a holiday-themed challenge. Try naming three Holiday songs, three Holiday movies, or even three of Santa's reindeer. It's trickier than it sounds, especially with the time pressure. Each player scores a point for every successful answer within the time limit. It's a fun way to keep things lively!
  3. Jingle Bell Shake:  Grab an empty tissue box, tie it around your backside (poke holes on opposite ends and secure it with a rope or ribbon), and toss in 10 or more little jingle bells. Start the music, and you have one minute to dance and shake out as many bells as possible. It's a blast! You can even have different prizes based on how many bells you jingle out. Shake them all out in a minute, and you snag the 'big' prize. Ready to jingle and dance?

A lively group of friends joyously engages in the festive game of Jingle Bell Shake, reveling in the holiday spirit.

Ready to jingle and dance?


  1. The Rewind Pong:  Our twist on Beer Pong. This is a lively and popular party game played on a rectangular table. Each team, typically composed of two or more players, takes turns throwing ping pong balls across the table, aiming to land them in cups filled with, in this case, Rewind Greens arranged at the opposite end. When a ball lands in a cup successfully, the opposing team must consume the Rewind Super Greens juice within and remove the cup. The game continues until one team successfully eliminates all the other team's cups. Variations and house rules, such as redemption shots and bouncing the ball, add to the excitement, making it a vibrant and engaging activity. Ready to Rewind Pong?

 

 

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES:

  1. Snowball Fight Spectacular:  If you have a snowy wonderland outside, seize the moment! Bundle up in your coziest gear, head to the backyard, and dive into some good-natured snowball fun. And here's the kicker: you can take it up a notch by building awesome snow forts for an extra dash of excitement! It's not just a game; it's a chance for you to make the most of the winter magic, creating memories filled with laughter and shared joy.

A group of friends engages in a lively snowball skirmish, filled with laughter and relishing the wintry atmosphere.

If you have a snowy wonderland outside, seize the moment! 

 

  1. Holiday Scavenger Hunt:  Organize a festive scavenger hunt in your neighborhood or local park. Create a list of holiday-themed items or scenes for which participants must take pictures. For example, you could have them take a picture of a snowman, a decorated tree, or a holiday-themed storefront. Watch as the entire family collaborates to uncover hidden treasures. This activity adds an adventurous twist to your holiday celebrations.

  2. Human Piñata Chase:  You won't believe the laughter this game brings – the Human Piñata Chase is an absolute riot! Someone decks themselves out with candy and goodies pinned to their shirt, turning into a walking or running talking piñata. Now, the fun begins as everyone tries to catch them and grab as many treats as possible while they try to dodge. It's like a wild, hilarious twist on the classic piñata game, and the sight of friends and family dashing around, reaching for sweets, is pure comedy gold. The best part? It's not just about the candy; it's about the shared joy and infectious laughter that make this game an unforgettable experience.

A fit man wearing a shirt adorned with pinned gifts and toys, gleefully evades a spirited group of children in a vibrant outdoor scene, encapsulating the dynamic and joyful exchange.

The Human Piñata Chase is an absolute riot!


  1. Balloon Snatch:  Get a bunch of balloons and fill them with rolled-up cash or pieces of paper with points on them. Skip the blowing-up part; just put the papers inside. The game kicks off when one player blows up a balloon but leaves it untied, raising it into the air and letting it go. Now, the challenge is for everyone else to try and catch the balloon without letting it touch the ground. Catch it mid-air, and you win whatever's inside – cash or points! If it hits the ground, the player who caught it last gets to blow it up and release it again. It's a thrilling game of skill and surprises, and the best part is that the winner becomes the next balloon blower.
  2. Campfire Story Time :  Even though the weather might be chilly, gathering around a cozy campfire with loved ones has a unique way of warming both the body and soul. Imagine roasting marshmallows over the crackling flames while sharing stories in the timeless tradition of our ancient ancestors. It's a simple yet profoundly wholesome activity, especially in a time when complex technology dominates our lives. We can even read some classic stories to embrace the holiday spirit.  

 

INTEGRATING TRADITION WITH MODERNITY:

The holiday season is a time to cherish the company of loved ones and create cherished memories. By blending traditional and modern games and activities, you can ensure that everyone in the family, from the youngest to the oldest, finds joy and excitement in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. Let's elevate our holiday festivities! Here are five exciting examples and how you can seamlessly integrate the old and the new:

  1. Virtual Holiday Trivia: The perfect way to merge tradition with modern tech. Imagine connecting with your extended family and friends over a video call, turning the screen into a festive battleground of knowledge. You can spice things up with questions that range from timeless holiday traditions to the latest pop culture references, creating a trivia game that's as diverse as it is entertaining. It's the ideal mix of old and new, ensuring that your holiday get-together is fun and  memorable blend of shared knowledge and laughter.

A joyous family engaging in a video trivia game with cherished ones who are separated by distance during the Christmas season.

Merge tradition with modern technology to include your loved ones far away.


  1. Escape Room at Home: Ready for an unforgettable night of teamwork and mystery-solving? How about turning your living room into an adventure zone with an Escape Room at Home? There are these awesome DIY escape room kits available that come loaded with all the clues and challenges for a super immersive experience. Picture it: the whole family working together, unraveling mysteries, solving puzzles, and unlocking the next level of excitement right in the comfort of your home. Bring the thrill of an escape room straight to your living room.
  2. Online Carol Karaoke:  It's such a cool idea! Keep the spirit of caroling alive by hosting a virtual karaoke session. Participants can sing their favorite holiday tunes using video conferencing tools. Create a shared playlist to ensure everyone has their favorite songs ready. It combines the joy of singing carols with the convenience of a digital platform.
  3. Smart Home Holiday Light Show:  Elevate the classic holiday light display by incorporating smart technology. Use smart plugs and bulbs that can be controlled via a smartphone app or voice commands. Program synchronized light shows to festive music, creating a modern and interactive experience for residents and onlookers.
  4. Digital Photo Booth:  Instead of the usual physical photo booth, you can set up a virtual one using your smartphones or a dedicated app. You can capture those festive moments with fun overlays, holiday-themed filters, and even virtual props – bringing a playful twist to the traditional holiday photo session. And, you can instantly share these digital memories with friends and family, making it a modern and inclusive way to celebrate and remember the joyous holiday moments.

 

ENSURING FESTIVE FUN

The goal is to create lasting memories with your loved ones and have lots of fun and laughter. That’s why I’m going to share some tips with you on how to keep everyone entertained during your holiday games. Let’s get started and make your holiday celebrations joyful and memorable for everyone.

Mix It Up for Everyone's Taste: We've got to cater to everyone's interests, right? Include a variety of games, from classic board games to more interactive group activities, so that there's something for everyone. This way, you'll make sure no one feels left out, and you can all have a good time.

Explain The Rules And Provide Examples: Take a moment to gather everyone together and enthusiastically go over the rules, making sure to address any questions they might have. Use age-appropriate language and provide concrete examples to illustrate each rule By making the rules easy to understand and offering practical examples, you'll ensure that everybody is not only excited about the games but also ready to dive in and have a jolly good time.

Consider Age-Appropriate Games:  If you have a range of ages in the family, make sure the games are suitable for everyone. A good balance between games for adults and ones that the kiddos can enjoy will keep everyone engaged and having fun.

Team Up for Family Bonding: It would be cool to have some team-based games. It's a great way to work together, bond, and create awesome family memories. Whether it's a scavenger hunt or a trivia challenge, teaming up will add to the festive vibe.

Keep Your Traditions Alive: Remember those family traditions you love? Weave them into your holiday games to make things extra special. It'll bring a bit of nostalgia and warmth to your celebration, reminding you of the good times you've had in the past.

Stay Flexible and Go with the Flow: Planning is great, but let's also be open to going with the flow. Sometimes, the best moments happen when we're not sticking too strictly to the rules. Flexibility will keep things dynamic and exciting.

A Little Friendly Competition Never Hurt: How about adding a touch of friendly competition? You could keep the score or have a small prize for the winners. But remember, it's all about having fun together – winning is just the icing on the holiday cake!

Bring in Some Tech Magic: You could spice things up with a bit of technology. Using a tablet for a virtual holiday quiz or exploring interactive apps to give your games a modern twist. It'll be a fun way to merge tradition with tech.

Personalize the Experience for Your Crew: You know everyone's preferences better than anyone else. Tailor your games to suit your family's interests. Whether it's a karaoke night for music lovers or a crafting activity for creative souls, personalizing the experience will make it extra special.

Encourage Everyone to Jump In: Make sure everyone feels included. So, pick games that everyone can join in on and enjoy. We want to create a welcoming atmosphere so nobody feels left out.

Reward Tokens of Celebration: Remember the magic of prizes and gifts. It's the season of giving, after all. Make sure to celebrate the winners and every enthusiastic participant by handing out prizes and small gifts. A simple gesture, like a small trinket or a festive treat, can go a long way in making everyone feel appreciated and contributing to the overall festive spirit.

Capture the Laughs and Smiles: Lastly, don't forget to capture those precious moments. Take photos and videos to remember the laughter, the friendly competition, and all the joy you share. These memories will be gold in the future.

Capturing a joyous family moment, she raises her phone to preserve the delightful scene of loved ones relishing each other's company.

Remember to capture those precious memories.


By incorporating these tips, you can elevate your holiday games to a whole new level, creating an entertaining and inclusive atmosphere for everyone involved. The goal is to celebrate the joy of the season together, making lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

  WRAPPING IT UP:

In our journey through the world of holiday games and activities, remember that the essence of the season lies in creating cherished memories with our loved ones. Whether you're planning indoor festivities filled with laughter and surprises or embarking on outdoor adventures in the winter wonderland, the goal is to weave a tapestry of joy and shared experiences. By seamlessly blending traditional and modern games, we ensure that every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, finds excitement in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. As we gear up for festive fun, let's keep things dynamic and inclusive. From explaining the rules with enthusiasm to encouraging everyone to jump in, from embracing friendly competition to bringing in a touch of tech magic, these tips are our guide to ensuring a holiday season brimming with joy and laughter. So, dive in, capture those precious moments, and let the festivities begin! 

Wishing you and your family a season filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Cheers to a joyous holiday celebration!

 

FAQs:

Q1: What types of games are recommended for indoor festivities?

We've got some fantastic indoor options. Like Holiday Family Trivia to get everyone bonding, the Oven Mitts Game for a hilarious unwrapping experience, the Saran Wrap Game for laughs and prizes, the quick and exciting Five-Second Rule, and the super fun Jingle Bell Shake. These games are guaranteed to bring joy and connection to your indoor festivities.


Q2: Can you suggest outdoor activities for the winter season?

Absolutely! Let's make the most of the winter magic with a Snowball Fight Spectacular and build awesome snow forts for extra excitement. There's also a festive Holiday Scavenger Hunt, a riotous Human Piñata Chase, a thrilling Balloon Snatch game, and a heartwarming Campfire Story Time for cozy family moments.


Q3: How can we blend tradition with a modern touch in our holiday celebrations?

I've got some exciting ideas! You can host a Virtual Holiday Trivia over video calls, turn your living room into an Escape Room at Home, enjoy Online Carol Karaoke, elevate your holiday light display with a Smart Home Holiday Light Show, and set up a Digital Photo Booth for modern and inclusive memories.


Q4: What are some tips for ensuring festive fun during holiday games?

Mix up the games for everyone's taste, explain rules with enthusiasm and examples, choose age-appropriate games, encourage family bonding through teamwork, blend in family traditions, stay flexible, add a touch of friendly competition, bring in some tech magic, personalize the experience, make sure everyone participates, and reward participants with tokens of celebration.


Q5: How can I capture the memories of our holiday celebration?

Don't forget to grab those memories. Take photos and videos throughout the festivities to capture the laughs, friendly competition, and shared experiences. It's the perfect way to make sure those joyous moments last a lifetime. These photos and videos are more than just pixels on a screen; they're time capsules of happiness, preserving the essence of our festive moments.

 

TAKE ACTION: Transform Your Holidays!

  1. Gather the Troops: Reach out to the family and friends – it's time to plan the ultimate holiday get-together. Whether it's a cozy indoor festivity or an adventurous outdoor escapade, get everyone on board for a celebration like never before. Tailor the games and activities to suit your family's unique preferences.
  2. Choose Your Games: Dive into the curated list of indoor and outdoor games that promise joy and excitement for all ages. Pick the ones that resonate with your crew. Remember, variety is the spice of life!
  3. Create Lasting Memories:  Equip yourself with cameras, smartphones, or any memory-capturing devices. Throughout the festivities, snap photos and record videos. These will be your treasures, capturing the laughter, friendly competition, and shared experiences that define the season's true spirit.

 

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