Family Games to Play Over the Holidays 🎄

The holidays have a funny way of bringing both magic and mayhem into our homes. The snacks are endless, the routines are gone, the kids are wired on excitement, and the weather usually keeps us indoors. One of the easiest ways to bring everyone together (and avoid screen-time battles) is with good old-fashioned family games.

Family games aren’t just about passing the time, they’re about creating moments your children will remember long after the decorations come down.

Why Family Games Matter During the Holidays

The holidays can feel overwhelming. There’s pressure to do everything, see everyone, and keep the kids entertained. Games slow things down. They create laughter, connection, and a sense of togetherness that no toy or gadget can replace.

You don’t need expensive games or perfectly planned evenings. Most of the best memories come from simple moments around the table or on the living room floor.

Classic Board Games Everyone Can Enjoy

Board games are perfect for lazy afternoons and early evenings.

Games like UNO, Monopoly (or Monopoly Junior), Connect 4, and Scrabble work well for mixed ages. Younger children can team up with adults, and older kids love the friendly competition. These games teach patience, turn-taking, and let’s be honest how to handle losing gracefully (or not!).

Party Games for Big Laughs

If your house is full of people and noise, party games are the way to go.

Charades and Pictionary are always a hit, especially with holiday-themed prompts like Christmas movies, festive foods, or family traditions. Heads Up or Would You Rather keep everyone involved, even those who don’t usually enjoy board games.

The best part? These games create the kind of laughter that fills the whole house.

Games for Younger Children

Little ones don’t need complicated rules to have fun.

Simon Says, Musical Statues, Matching Games, and Hide and Seek are perfect for burning off energy indoors. Adding festive music or a Christmas twist makes them even more exciting.

These simple games help toddlers and young children feel included, which matters just as much as entertaining the older kids.

Christmas-Themed Games

Holiday-themed games add extra excitement and help build anticipation.

Pass the Parcel, Christmas Bingo, or Name That Christmas Tune are easy to set up and loved by all ages. Even a simple I Spy Christmas Edition can turn into a daily tradition.

You don’t need perfection, just enthusiasm.

Cosy, Low-Energy Games

Not every day needs high energy. Some of the best holiday moments happen during calm, cosy evenings.

Games like 20 Questions, Story Chain (where each person adds a sentence), or I Spy are perfect when everyone is winding down. These moments often lead to the sweetest conversations and unexpected giggles.

Making It Work Without Stress

The key to holiday games is flexibility. Let each family member choose a game during the holidays so everyone feels involved. Keep rules simple, expect interruptions, and remember that the goal isn’t winning, it’s connection.

Some days will feel chaotic. Others will feel magical. Both are part of family life.

And Finally

Family games don’t need to be perfect, organised, or expensive. They just need people, a little time, and a willingness to laugh together. Long after the holidays end, it won’t be the presents that stand out it’ll be the memories made around the table.

So grab a deck of cards, clear a little space on the floor, and let the games begin ❤️