Let the Festive Fun Begin: Top Holiday-Themed Indoor Games for the Whole Family
As the weather cools and the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing better than gathering with family and friends for a little indoor fun.
Holiday-themed indoor games are the perfect way to keep the festive spirit alive while staying warm and cozy inside. Whether you’re hosting a family party, entertaining kids on a snow day, or simply looking for a way to unwind, these games promise laughter, joy, and plenty of holiday cheer.
1. Christmas Charades
Charades is a classic party game that gets a festive twist during the holidays. Create a stack of cards with holiday-related phrases, characters, or actions. Examples of these can be “wrapping a gift,” “Santa stuck in the chimney,” or “building a snowman.” Divide into teams and take turns acting out the prompts without speaking while your team guesses.
Why it’s a hit:
- Simple to set up.
- Encourages creativity and teamwork.
- Hilarious moments guaranteed!
Pro Tip: Use holiday-themed props like Santa hats or reindeer antlers to add an extra layer of fun.
2. Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Bring the excitement of a scavenger hunt indoors with a holiday twist. Hide small trinkets like ornaments, candy canes, or mini stockings around your home and create a checklist for players to find them. You can even add riddles or clues for an extra challenge.
Why it’s a hit:
- Keeps kids engaged and active.
- Can be tailored for any age group.
- Doubles as a way to showcase your festive decorations.
Pro Tip: Award bonus points for finding a “special item,” like a golden ornament or a mystery gift box.
3. Snowball Toss
No snow outside? No problem! Create an indoor snowball toss using soft, white balls (or even rolled-up socks) and buckets or baskets. Assign point values to each basket based on difficulty and see who can score the most.
Why it’s a hit:
- Safe, active fun for all ages.
- Easy to set up and clean up.
- Perfect for burning off some of that holiday energy.
Pro Tip: Add a festive touch by decorating the buckets with holiday motifs like snowflakes or candy canes.
4. Gingerbread House Decorating Contest
Turn a crafty holiday tradition into a competitive game. Provide each player or team with a gingerbread house kit and set a timer for decorating. Once time’s up, vote on categories like “Most Creative,” “Most Festive,” or “Best Overall.”
Why it’s a hit:
- Combines creativity and competition.
- A deliciously fun activity for all ages.
- Doubles as a festive centerpiece.
Pro Tip: Add extra candies, sprinkles, and icing colors to spark creativity.
5. Christmas Bingo
Give the classic game of bingo a holiday makeover! Create bingo cards filled with festive symbols like snowmen, reindeer, candy canes, and stockings. Use wrapped chocolates or holiday-themed buttons as markers.
Why it’s a hit:
- Easy to play for all ages.
- A great way to wind down after a big meal.
- Small prizes add an extra layer of excitement.
Pro Tip: Print your bingo cards from free online templates or make your own for a personalized touch.
6. Pin the Nose on Rudolph
This holiday version of “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” is sure to delight kids and adults alike. Print or draw a large image of Rudolph and create noses out of red construction paper or felt. Blindfold each player, spin them around, and see who can pin the nose closest to Rudolph’s.
Why it’s a hit:
- Easy to set up with minimal materials.
- Perfect for younger kids.
- Laugh-out-loud moments as noses go astray.
Pro Tip: Use double-sided tape or sticky tack to make attaching the noses easy and mess-free.
7. Holiday Pictionary
Similar to charades but with drawings, this game is perfect for the artistically inclined. Players take turns drawing holiday-themed prompts like “sleigh ride” or “ugly Christmas sweater” while their team guesses.
Why it’s a hit:
- Encourages creativity and quick thinking.
- Appeals to all ages and skill levels.
- Results in hilarious artwork!
Pro Tip: Use a whiteboard for easy erasing, or provide large sheets of paper for dramatic designs.
8. Candy Cane Hunt
Hide candy canes around the house, similar to an Easter egg hunt, and let players collect them. To add a twist, assign point values to different-colored candy canes and reward prizes for the highest scores.
Why it’s a hit:
- Easy setup with minimal supplies.
- Fun for kids and adults alike.
- Doubles as a sweet treat!
Pro Tip: Use mini candy canes for an added challenge.
9. Holiday Karaoke Challenge
Turn up the festive tunes and let everyone channel their inner rock star. Use a karaoke machine or a simple Bluetooth speaker and microphone to sing along to holiday favorites. Bonus points for costumes or dance moves!
Why it’s a hit:
- Encourages laughter and creativity.
- Great for kids and adults.
- Brings holiday cheer to life.
Pro Tip: Create a themed playlist in advance, featuring both classics and modern hits.
10. Build a Snowman Relay
Divide players into teams and set up an indoor relay race to “build a snowman” using household items. Use toilet paper for the body, scarves, hats, and construction paper for facial features.
Why it’s a hit:
- Combines physical activity and creativity.
- Perfect for groups.
- Results in some truly hilarious snowman creations.
Pro Tip: Capture the fun with photos and vote for the best snowman design.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are about spending time together, and these indoor games bring families and friends closer in the best way possible. Whether you’re channeling your artistic side, showing off your acting chops, or simply enjoying a little friendly competition, these activities are sure to create lasting memories filled with laughter and love.
So, gather your loved ones, clear some space, and let the festive games begin! Happy holidays!
Looking for more holiday fun ideas to keep the cheer going? Visit Mavelus Kids for more festive games, tips, and inspiration to make this season unforgettable!
