The holiday season is the perfect time to bring everyone together for fun and laughter. Kids especially love this time of year because of all the exciting activities.
From classroom parties to family gatherings, holiday games for kids can make any event special.
These games aren’t just fun – they help kids use their creativity, learn teamwork, and enjoy friendly competition.
Best of all, most of these games are easy to set up and don’t need expensive materials.
Get ready to enjoy the best time of the year with these entertaining games!
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Fun and Exciting Holiday Games For Kids
Looking for fun ways to keep kids entertained during the holidays?
This list has something for everyone! From active games to creative crafts, each idea is perfect for spreading holiday cheer.
These holiday games for kids will bring smiles and laughter to any party or gathering.
Check out the list and pick your favorites for a memorable holiday season!
Classroom Games
Classroom games make learning and fun come together!
These games are perfect for groups of kids during holiday time.
They’re simple to set up and don’t require fancy materials. Teachers love these games because they’re educational too.
Kids can learn teamwork, practice patience, and laugh together.
The best part? These games make the classroom feel like a mini holiday party!
Snowball Toss
Use white paper balls and buckets for a fun indoor “snowball” game.
Snowball Toss is a fun and easy indoor game!
All you need are white paper balls and a few buckets. Crumple some paper into small balls to look like snowballs.
Place the buckets at different distances. Kids take turns tossing the snowballs into the buckets.
Each bucket can have points based on how far it is. The person with the most points wins!
It’s perfect for classrooms or home parties and brings lots of laughs.
Pin the Nose on the Snowman
A holiday twist on “Pin the Tail on the Donkey.”
This game is like “Pin the Tail on the Donkey,” but with a holiday twist!
Draw or print a big snowman on a sheet of paper. Make a red paper circle to be the snowman’s nose.
Blindfold each player, spin them gently, and let them try to stick their nose on the snowman.
It’s so funny to see where the noses end up!
Everyone gets a turn, and the closest one to the real spot wins.
Holiday Bingo
Use holiday-themed cards with images like candy canes, Santa hats, and presents.
Holiday Bingo is a game everyone loves!
Make Bingo cards with fun holiday images like candy canes, Santa hats, and presents. Give each player a card and small markers like buttons or candies.
The host calls out the pictures, and players mark them on their cards. The first person to get a row, column, or diagonal shouts “Bingo!”
It’s easy to set up and exciting to play. Kids and adults will have a great time!
Christmas Word Scramble
Unscramble holiday-related words like “sleigh” and “reindeer.”
Christmas Word Scramble is a fun and brainy game for kids!
Create a list of holiday-themed words like “sleigh,” “reindeer,” and “ornament” but mix up the letters. Players must figure out the correct words by unscrambling them.
You can play individually or in teams. Give small prizes to the fastest players.
It’s a great way to test spelling skills while having holiday fun. This game is perfect for classrooms or family gatherings!
Santa Says
A holiday version of “Simon Says.”
Santa Says is just like “Simon Says,” but with a festive twist!
One person acts as “Santa” and gives commands like “Santa says clap your hands!” Players must only follow the command if it starts with “Santa says.”
If someone moves without hearing “Santa says,” they’re out.
Add holiday actions like “wrapping a gift” or “decorating a tree” for extra fun.
It’s a simple game that makes everyone laugh and stay active!
Ornament Balance Relay
Kids race while balancing ornaments on spoons.
This is a thrilling race game that’s easy to set up!
Give each player a spoon and a lightweight ornament.
Players must balance the ornament on the spoon and race to the finish line without dropping it.
For extra fun, make the track longer or add obstacles. If the ornament falls, players have to go back to the start.
It’s a perfect game for parties, and kids love the challenge!
Guess the Holiday Sound
Play sounds like jingling bells or carolers and have kids guess what they are.
This guessing game is all about using your ears!
Play sounds like jingling bells, carolers singing, or wrapping paper rustling. Kids take turns guessing what each sound is.
You can make it more challenging by using less obvious noises like a crackling fireplace.
Give points for correct answers, and the person with the most points wins.
It’s easy to prepare and so much fun to play. Everyone will enjoy this holiday listening game!
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Christmas Party
Christmas parties are a time for laughter, food, and games!
These games are great for kids and even adults to join in.
Whether you’re singing karaoke or building gingerbread houses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
These games create happy memories that last long after the party ends. No fancy setups are needed – just good vibes and a festive mood!
Christmas Charades
Act out holiday activities or movies like “Decorating a Tree” or “The Grinch.”
Christmas Charades is a lively game that gets everyone laughing!
Write down holiday-themed activities or movies, like “Decorating a Tree” or “The Grinch,” on small cards.
Players take turns acting out the clues without speaking, while the rest of the group guesses.
You can divide into teams for extra fun. The faster a team guesses, the more points they earn.
It’s simple to set up and guarantees lots of holiday cheer!
Candy Cane Hunt
Hide candy canes around the party area and let kids find them.
Candy Cane Hunt is a sweet and exciting game!
Hide candy canes around the room or yard before the game starts. Give kids baskets or bags to collect them.
The child who finds the most candy canes wins a small prize. To make it more challenging, hide candy canes in tricky spots.
It’s a fun way to keep kids active while adding a festive twist. Plus, they get to enjoy the candy afterward!
Build a Gingerbread House Race
Teams compete to build the most creative gingerbread house.
This game combines creativity and competition!
Provide teams with gingerbread pieces, frosting, and decorations.
The goal is to build the most creative and sturdy gingerbread house within a set time.
Judges can decide the winner based on creativity, design, or teamwork. It’s messy but so much fun!
Everyone will love showing off their edible creations, and it’s a perfect way to bring the holiday spirit to a party.
Musical Gifts
Like musical chairs, but pass around a wrapped gift; whoever has it when the music stops unwraps a layer.
Musical Gifts is a holiday version of musical chairs!
Wrap a small prize with multiple layers of wrapping paper. Players sit in a circle and pass the gift while music plays.
When the music stops, the person holding the gift unwraps one layer.
The game continues until the last layer is removed, revealing the prize.
It’s exciting for everyone and adds a playful twist to the party. Kids and adults love the suspense!
Reindeer Ring Toss
Toss rings onto “reindeer antlers” (headbands with antlers or cone-shaped objects).
Reindeer Ring Toss is a silly and fun game for all ages!
You’ll need rings and something to act as reindeer antlers. Use headbands with antlers or even cones decorated as antlers.
Players take turns tossing the rings, aiming to hook them onto the antlers. The person who gets the most rings wins.
It’s simple to set up and perfect for holiday parties. Everyone will love the laughter and friendly competition!
Christmas Karaoke
Kids sing their favorite holiday songs.
Christmas Karaoke brings music and joy to any holiday gathering!
Set up a karaoke machine or just play instrumental versions of popular holiday songs.
Kids take turns singing their favorite tunes like “Jingle Bells” or “Frosty the Snowman.” You can even hold a mini contest and give small prizes for the best performance.
It’s a great way to encourage kids to be creative and confident. Plus, everyone gets to sing along and have fun!
Snowball Fight (Indoor Version)
Use soft, white pom-poms or balled-up socks as “snowballs.”
This indoor snowball fight is exciting and safe!
Use soft white pom-poms or socks rolled into balls to act as “snowballs.”
Divide the room into two sides and split players into teams. Set a timer and let the “snowballs” fly!
The team with the least snowballs on their side when time runs out wins.
It’s perfect for days when it’s too cold outside but you still want to bring the snowy fun indoors!
Easy DIY’s
DIY crafts are perfect for getting creative during the holidays!
Kids can make ornaments, cards, or even colorful garlands. These crafts are simple to create and use materials you likely already have at home.
Making things with your own hands feels special and meaningful. It’s also a great way to bond with family and friends.
Plus, you’ll have cute decorations or keepsakes to cherish. DIY projects are fun, mess-free (mostly), and full of holiday cheer.
DIY Ornament Decorating
Provide plain ornaments, markers, glitter, and glue for decorating.
DIY Ornament Decorating is a creative way to make personalized holiday decorations!
Give kids plain ornaments, markers, glitter, stickers, and glue (check all products below). Let them design their ornaments however they like.
They can draw festive patterns, add sparkles, or write their names. It’s a simple activity that allows kids to express their creativity.
Once finished, these ornaments can be hung on the tree or gifted to loved ones. It’s a craft that’s fun and meaningful!
Paper Plate Snowman
Use paper plates, buttons, and colored paper to craft snowmen.
Paper Plate Snowman crafts are easy and adorable!
You’ll need paper plates, colored paper, and glue (find all the mentioned things below). Kids can use one plate for the snowman’s face and another for the body.
They can add buttons for the eyes, a paper carrot for the nose, and a scarf made from colored paper.
It’s a fun activity that teaches kids how to make art from everyday items.
These snowmen are perfect for decorating classrooms or homes!
Popsicle Stick Reindeer
Assemble popsicle sticks, googly eyes, and pom-poms for a fun craft.
Popsicle Stick Reindeer is a simple and festive craft!
Kids use popsicle sticks to create a triangle shape for the reindeer’s face.
Add googly eyes, a red pom-pom for the nose, and paper or stick antlers. Glue everything together, and you have a cute holiday decoration!
This craft is quick, easy, and perfect for small hands.
The finished reindeer can be hung on the tree or given as a gift. It’s a holiday hit!
Salt Dough Handprint Keepsakes
Kids can mold and decorate their own ornaments.
Salt Dough Handprint Keepsakes are a special craft that kids love!
Mix flour, salt, and water to make the dough, then roll it out flat. Kids press their hands into the dough to leave a handprint.
Cut the dough into a circle or heart shape and poke a hole at the top for hanging. After it hardens, kids can paint and decorate it.
These ornaments make great gifts or keepsakes to remember the holiday season.
Holiday Slime
Create festive slime using glitter and red and green colors.
Holiday Slime is a gooey and fun activity for kids!
Use glue, baking soda, and contact lens solution to create the slime base. Add red and green food coloring and glitter to make it festive.
Kids can stretch, squish, and play with their slime for hours. It’s easy to make and keeps little hands busy.
Store the slime in containers, and it can be given as a holiday treat or played with again later.
Christmas Card Making
Provide cardstock, stickers, and markers for kids to make cards.
Christmas Card Making is a thoughtful and creative holiday activity.
Give kids cardstock, stickers, markers, and holiday-themed decorations. They can draw pictures, write messages, and add fun designs.
Encourage them to make cards for family, friends, or even neighbors. This activity lets kids show their creativity while spreading holiday cheer.
Handmade cards feel extra special and help kids learn the joy of giving during the holiday season.
Paper Chain Garland
Use colored paper to create a garland for decorating.
Paper Chain Garland is a classic craft that’s simple and fun!
Use strips of colored paper in red, green, and white. Kids loop the strips into circles, securing them with glue or tape, and linking them together to form a chain.
The garland can be hung on walls, trees, or doors for festive decoration.
It’s a great group activity, and kids love seeing how long they can make their chains. This timeless craft always brings holiday cheer!
Outdoor Fun
Outdoor games are the best way to enjoy fresh air during the holidays!
Kids love playing outside, whether it’s building a snowman or racing with reindeer antlers.
You can set up a scavenger hunt or even a giant snowball roll for extra excitement. These games let kids use their energy while staying active.
No snow? No problem! You can still have fun with holiday obstacle courses or light walks. Outdoor fun makes every holiday brighter.
Snowman Building Contest
If snow is available, kids compete to make the best snowman.
A Snowman Building Contest is a fun outdoor activity for snowy days!
Kids compete to build the best snowman using snow, sticks, scarves, and any decorations they can find.
You can have categories like the tallest snowman, the funniest design, or the most creative. Judges can decide the winners, or everyone can vote.
It’s a great way to encourage teamwork and imagination. Plus, playing in the snow is always a blast for kids!
Reindeer Relay Races
Kids race with reindeer antlers or “sleds” made from boxes.
Reindeer Relay Races bring energy and excitement to holiday fun!
Divide kids into teams and give them reindeer antlers to wear or “sleds” made from boxes.
Players race to complete a course, pulling their “sled” or running with their antlers on.
You can add challenges like hopping or zigzagging through cones. The first team to finish wins!
This game is perfect for outdoor fun and makes everyone feel like Santa’s helpers.
Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of items (like candy canes and bows) for kids to find.
A Holiday Scavenger Hunt is a festive treasure hunt kids will love!
Create a list of holiday-themed items like candy canes, bows, or ornaments.
Hide these items around your home, yard, or party area. Give kids the list and let them search for the treasures. The child who finds the most items wins a prize.
It’s an easy game to organize and keeps kids entertained while adding a bit of holiday magic.
Ice Skating Freeze Dance
Play music and have kids freeze when it stops while skating.
Ice Skating Freeze Dance is a fun and active game for kids who love to skate!
Play upbeat holiday music while kids skate around. When the music stops, everyone must freeze in place.
Anyone who keeps moving is out until the next round. The last skater standing wins!
It’s a great way to combine skating skills with playful competition. This game keeps kids laughing and moving while enjoying the festive season.
Candy Cane Obstacle Course
Use candy canes and holiday decor to create a fun obstacle course.
A Candy Cane Obstacle Course adds a playful challenge to holiday fun!
Set up a course using candy canes, cones, or other holiday decorations. Kids can jump over, crawl under, or weave around the obstacles.
Add challenges like carrying a candy cane while running or balancing it on a spoon.
The course can be indoors or outdoors, depending on the space. This game is perfect for parties and keeps kids active and entertained.
Christmas Light Walk Bingo
Give kids bingo cards with items like “Santa on a roof” to find during a walk.
Christmas Light Walk Bingo makes holiday light viewing even more exciting!
Create bingo cards with items like “Santa on a roof,” “snowman,” or “twinkling stars.” Give each child a card and a marker.
As you walk or drive through a decorated area, kids mark off the items they spot. The first to complete a row or the whole card wins!
It’s a simple game that turns a holiday outing into a fun adventure.
Giant Snowball Roll
See who can roll the largest snowball or push one to a finish line.
The Giant Snowball Roll is a winter classic that’s both fun and competitive!
Kids work in teams or individually to roll the largest snowball possible.
You can also set a race, where they push their snowball to a finish line. Add twists like rolling around obstacles for more excitement.
It’s a perfect outdoor activity that uses creativity and teamwork. This game guarantees laughter and leaves everyone with snowy memories!
Games With Adults
Holiday games with adults bring everyone together!
Try a trivia challenge about Christmas movies or name popular carols for a laugh. Adults and kids can team up for cookie decorating or Pictionary.
These games are perfect for family gatherings or office parties.
They keep everyone entertained while adding a touch of holiday magic. Everyone becomes a kid at heart during these games!
Holiday Pictionary
Draw holiday-related phrases like “deck the halls” or “silent night.”
Holiday Pictionary is a fun and creative game for all ages!
Write down holiday-related phrases or items like “deck the halls,” “snowman,” or “silent night” on slips of paper.
Players take turns drawing the phrases while their team guesses. Use a timer to add excitement and keep rounds quick.
It’s a great game for holiday parties or family nights. The laughter and silly drawings make this game a holiday favorite!
Christmas Movie Trivia
Test knowledge of classic holiday films.
Christmas Movie Trivia is perfect for testing holiday movie knowledge!
Prepare questions about classic films like Home Alone or The Polar Express.
Ask questions like, “What’s the name of the Grinch’s dog?” or “Where does Kevin’s family go on vacation in Home Alone?” Players or teams earn points for correct answers.
It’s a simple game that sparks fun conversations and nostalgia. Great for movie lovers and adds holiday cheer to any gathering.
Name That Carol
Play snippets of carols and see who can name them fastest.
Name That Carol is a fast-paced and festive music game!
Play a short snippet of a holiday song, like “Jingle Bells” or “Silent Night,” and see who can guess the name the fastest.
You can make it competitive by awarding points or keep it casual for fun. Add a mix of popular and classic carols to challenge everyone.
It’s a wonderful way to celebrate holiday music and get everyone singing along!
Elf on the Shelf Hide-and-Seek
Adults hide an elf toy, and kids and adults search for it.
Elf on the Shelf Hide-and-Seek is a magical game for the whole family!
Adults hide an elf toy in a tricky spot, and everyone searches to find it. You can give clues or make it more challenging by setting a timer.
The first person to find the elf wins a small prize.
It’s a simple game that brings excitement and laughter. This activity adds a playful holiday twist to any gathering.
Hot Chocolate Relay Race
Teams race to “build” a hot chocolate (carrying mugs, marshmallows, etc.).
Hot Chocolate Relay Race is a hilarious and fast-paced team game!
Set up stations with hot chocolate ingredients like mugs, marshmallows, and whipped cream.
Players must carry one item at a time to “build” the perfect cup of hot chocolate. If something spills, they start over.
The first team to complete their hot chocolate wins.
It’s messy, exciting, and loads of fun for kids and adults alike!
Ugly Sweater Contest
Have a judged competition for the funniest or most creative holiday sweater.
An Ugly Sweater Contest is a holiday classic that brings lots of laughs!
Everyone wears their funniest, wackiest, or most creative holiday sweater.
Have judges pick winners in categories like “Most Festive,” “Funniest,” or “Most Over-the-Top.”
You can also have a parade to show off the sweaters. This contest is easy to organize and a hit at parties.
It’s the perfect way to add humor and holiday cheer to your celebration.
Christmas Cookie Decorating Contest
Adults and kids team up to create the most festive cookie designs.
A Christmas Cookie Decorating Contest is a sweet way to spark creativity!
Provide plain cookies, frosting, sprinkles, and other edible decorations. Kids and adults team up to design the most festive cookie.
Set a timer to keep it exciting, and have judges pick winners for categories like “Most Creative” or “Best Holiday Theme.”
It’s a fun, hands-on activity that everyone enjoys. Plus, you get delicious cookies to eat afterward!
FIND MORE GAMES FOR YOUR KIDS:
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Conclusion
Holiday games for kids are the perfect way to bring joy and energy to any celebration.
Whether you’re hosting a party, spending time with family, or organizing a classroom event, these games create lasting memories.
They’re simple to set up, fun for all ages, and help kids stay active and engaged.
These games bring people together and spread the magic of the holiday season.
Try out a few of these ideas, and watch as your holidays become even more special and full of laughter!
Engage With Us
We’d love to hear how you’re making the holidays special with these games!
Have you tried any of the holiday games for kids from this list? Which ones were your favorites?
Share your stories, ideas, or even pictures of your fun holiday activities in the comments below.
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