New Year’s Eve Paper Tower Challenge
Take this game to the party.
Download the instructions and game materials in your preferred edition. Each PDF is 3 pages. Print only the pages you need.
US Letter • Single-sided • For A4, choose Fit. Browse all printables
Give each team 12 sheets of paper and an equal strip of masking tape. Choose a level floor or tabletop where everyone has the same amount of space.
What you need
- Printer paper
- Masking tape
- Measuring tape
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
- Teams get two minutes to discuss a design without touching supplies.
- Start an eight-minute building period. Teams may fold, roll, tear, and tape their paper. They cannot attach the tower to furniture or walls.
- At the end, everyone lets go. A tower must stand unsupported for 10 seconds.
- Measure each stable tower from its base to the highest paper point. Tallest wins; tied heights share the win.
Prompts and round ideas
- Try a wide base
- Roll sturdy columns
- Fold triangular supports
- Keep the top light
Make it work for your group
For younger children, drop the height competition and set a shared target, such as a tower taller than a notebook.
A host’s note
Do not let players climb on chairs to build taller. Keep the challenge at a comfortable reachable height.
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.