Christmas Charades for Families and Friends

Write the prompts on slips and split players into two teams. Put the slips in a bowl and set a 60-second timer. Choose whether younger children may act with a partner.

What you need

• Paper slips
• Pencils
• Bowl

A phone timer is handy for timed rounds. Set out supplies before guests arrive, and give the group one practice turn if the rules are new to them.

How to play

1. One person draws and silently reads a prompt. Start the timer when they are ready.
2. The actor uses gestures only while their team guesses. No speech, humming, or writing letters is allowed.
3. A correct guess before the timer ends earns one point. Then the other team takes a turn.
4. Continue until everyone has acted twice. Add points and use one extra turn per team if you want to break a tie.

Prompts and round ideas

• Untangling lights
• Wrapping an awkward gift
• Carrying a Christmas tree
• Hanging a stocking
• Building a snowman
• Sneaking a cookie
• A reindeer learning to fly
• Opening a surprising present
• Singing carols
• Mailing a card
• Shoveling snow
• Decorating a gingerbread house
• A cat climbing the tree
• Losing the tape
• Trying on a sweater
• Setting the table
• Finding a hidden present
• Putting a star on the tree
• Sipping hot cocoa
• Catching a snowflake
• A snow globe
• A toy robot
• Tiptoeing downstairs
• Packing a sleigh

Make it work for your group

For an office party, use winter activities and gift-wrapping prompts so people can join without knowing specific traditions.

A host’s note

Read prompts aloud privately for emerging readers. Keep movement optional and allow seated acting.

Plan your party flow

Explain the aim before handing out supplies, then demonstrate one turn. Let guests join as a player, helper, or spectator. Stop while the group is still enjoying the game rather than adding extra rounds just to fill time.