Six classic party games to play this Christmas

The festive season is the perfect time for family fun and laughter, and games are a wonderful way to bring everyone together. Whether you’re gathered around the fire or finishing up Christmas dinner, here are six classic games to keep the festive spirit alive.

1. Charades

A timeless favourite, charades is perfect for all ages. Split into teams and take turns acting out festive phrases, films, or characters without speaking while your team guesses. Add a Christmas twist by including holiday-themed prompts like Elf, snowball fight, or Santa stuck in the chimney. It’s guaranteed to get everyone laughing!

2. Draw and guess

Combine creativity and competition with Christmas-themed Pictionary. Write festive words or phrases—like “mistletoe,” “Christmas cracker,” or “reindeer parade”—on slips of paper. Players draw these for their teammates to guess. No artistic skills are required, making it hilariously fun when stick figures and doodles are involved.

3. Whisper drawings

This creative take on Chinese whispers involves drawing instead of speaking. Each player starts with a festive phrase (e.g., "Santa surfing on a sleigh"). They draw the phrase, then pass their drawing to the next player, who guesses what it is and writes it down. The paper alternates between drawing and guessing until it returns to the original person. The wildly different interpretations are sure to spark laughter.

 

4. Category association game

This game revolves around quick thinking and creativity. Players are tasked with generating words or phrases that fit into specific categories, but the twist is that all answers must begin with a designated letter. For example, if the letter is "C" and the category is "Christmas Foods," players might write "Candy Cane." Points are awarded for unique answers, encouraging players to think outside the box.

This game sparks laughter and lively debate as participants try to defend their more creative or unusual answers. It's adaptable for any group, making it perfect for festive gatherings with customised categories like "Holiday Traditions" or "Winter Activities."

5. Descriptive Word Game

This game involves one player giving rapid-fire verbal clues to help their teammates guess a specific word or phrase within a time limit. The describer must avoid using parts of the word, rhymes, or direct synonyms, challenging them to think creatively and communicate clearly. Categories can include general topics like people, places, actions, or objects, making the game adaptable to any setting - including Christmas!

6. Pass the parcel

What party would be complete without a round of pass the parcel!

Wrap a small gift in layers of wrapping paper, alternating with challenges or dares written on slips of paper. Players pass the parcel around while music plays, unwrapping a layer when the music stops. The player who unwraps the final layer gets the prize. It’s a fun, fast-paced game that builds excitement for everyone.

These classic games bring out the laughter, creativity, and camaraderie that make Christmas so special. Try them this holiday season and create memories that will last long after the decorations come down!