This time of year is all about joy, connection, and creating unforgettable memories with loved ones—and we at Solve a Mystery couldn’t agree more! We love solving puzzles, going treasure hunting, and trying out new games, especially during Christmas, which is the perfect occasion to bring family together for fun activities. Preparing new games every year can be challenging, so here is Sam’s list of ten enjoyable Christmas Games! All of these games can be played at home and are suitable for both children and adults, if you’re looking for how to entertain your family and friends! 

1. Christmas scavenger hunt

Add some excitement to your holiday with a scavenger hunt. Hide candies or small treats around the house and provide clues to guide the kids in finding them. 

2. Guess the Christmas song

Cue up some Christmas classics! Play a snippet of a popular song on Spotify and challenge the family to guess the exact title. Songs like Jingle Bells or Silent Night will get everyone in the holiday spirit.

3. Pass the bow

This twist on the classic "hot potato" game is simple and fun. Stand in a circle and pass a large festive bow while music plays. When the music stops, whoever is holding the bow is out. Continue until one person is left standing.

4. Who’s the Christmas character?

For this guessing game, write down the names of iconic Christmas characters on sticky notes. Players attach them to their foreheads without looking, then ask yes-or-no questions to figure out who they are. It's a guaranteed laugh fest!

5. Christmas trivia

Spice up dinner conversations with trivia about your guests! Have everyone write down a fun fact about themselves. During the meal, read the facts aloud and let the group guess who each one belongs to.

6. Family-themed guess who

Customize the classic "Guess Who" game by using photos of family members. Ask questions with a holiday twist, like "Who bakes the best Christmas cookies?" or "Who’s celebrated the most Christmases?" After the game, use the photos as festive decor.

7. Christmas movie bingo

Turn movie night into a competition with Christmas movie bingo. Download this free bingo card and mark off common holiday movie tropes like "snowfall scene" or "last-minute gift exchange."

8. Gingerbread decorating contest

Channel your creativity with a gingerbread house or cookie decorating competition. Provide plenty of icing, candies, and sprinkles, then let everyone vote for the most festive creation.

9. What’s in Santa’s hat?

This guessing game is perfect for younger kids. Place small toys or figurines in a Santa hat or stocking and have players guess what’s inside by touch alone. It’s a delightful mix of mystery and fun!

10. Find the Christmas pickle

In this scavenger hunt meets tradition, hide a green pickle ornament in your Christmas tree. The first person to find it wins a special prize. It’s a charming activity that adds a little extra magic to your tree.

Bonus Game: Collaborative storytelling

Round out your night with a creative group activity. Start a holiday-themed story with one sentence, then go around the room with each person adding to it. The result is often hilarious and unique!

Give the gift of adventure this Christmas with a Solve a Mystery Gift Card! 

Make it special by exploring one of our mysteries together. Designed for everyone in the family to enjoy, our mysteries add an exciting twist to your holiday adventures. Let your friend or family member choose their favorite location and discover unique mystery sights. With the gift card, you can play together during Christmas or let them plan their mystery experience while traveling abroad.