Christmas in the Philippines isn’t just about the food (though we love our Noche Buena feasts!). It’s also about spending quality time with family and making memories that last a lifetime. Sure, everyone loves caroling and opening gifts, but why not add some games to the mix to bring even more laughter and joy to your celebration?
The best part? These games are super fun, easy to set up, and budget-friendly—perfect for modest Filipino families. Let’s dive in!
1. Christmas Bingo
Who doesn’t love a good game of Bingo? It’s fun, simple, and guaranteed to get everyone excited. Give it a festive twist by using Christmas-themed cards instead of the usual numbers. Think parols, gifts, stars, and Santa hats!
- Why it’s awesome: It’s perfect for all ages, from kids to grandparents.
- What you need: You can print free Bingo cards online or even make your own. Use candies, coins, or even buttons as markers!
- Add a prize: Wrap small gifts like snacks or trinkets to give away to the winners.
2. Pinoy Henyo: Christmas Edition
You know this one—it’s a Filipino party favorite! To make it more festive, use Christmas-themed words or phrases like “lechon,” “Christmas tree,” or “Simbang Gabi.” Watching someone frantically guess while everyone laughs is always a highlight.
- Why it’s a hit: It’s interactive, competitive, and always hilarious.
- What you need: Paper, a pen, and a timer (or your phone).
3. Bring Me
This classic game is a crowd favorite at any Filipino gathering, and it’s so easy to play! The game master calls out items like “a red slipper,” “a spoon with rice,” or “a family photo,” and everyone races to bring the item to them.
- Why it’s so fun: It’s fast, chaotic, and always full of surprises.
- Tip: Add a twist! Include Christmas-themed items like “a wrapped gift” or “a parol.”
4. DIY Christmas Pictionary
Get everyone’s artistic side going with this fun drawing game! All you need are Christmas-related words like “reindeer,” “Christmas star,” or “Noche Buena.” One person draws while their teammates try to guess what it is before time runs out.
- Why it’s a winner: The bad drawings and hilarious guesses always get everyone laughing!
- What you need: Paper, markers, and a timer.
5. Christmas Charades
Charades never gets old, especially when you add a holiday spin! Create a list of Christmas-themed actions or phrases, like “singing carols,” “wrapping a gift,” or “eating spaghetti,” and let everyone act them out.
- Why it’s great: It’s energetic, inclusive, and gets everyone up and moving.
- What you need: Just a list of ideas and your best acting skills.
6. Pabitin with a Twist
This Filipino favorite is usually seen at fiestas, but it’s perfect for Christmas too! Hang a bamboo frame or DIY grid loaded with goodies like candies, small toys, or handwritten holiday wishes. Blindfold the players and let them try to grab what they can.
- Why it’s unforgettable: Kids love it, and adults can’t resist joining in too!
- Tip: Include small handwritten “prizes” like “extra dessert” or “skip dishwashing duty” for fun.
Hosting Tips for Family Christmas Games
- Keep it simple: These games don’t need fancy materials—use what you already have at home.
- Prepare small prizes: Wrapped candies, baked treats, or even IOUs for chores make great rewards.
- Make it inclusive: Choose games everyone can play, from your youngest cousins to your lolos and lolas.
Wrapping It Up
Games are a simple way to make your Christmas and New Year celebrations more meaningful. Whether it’s laughing over Pinoy Henyo or getting competitive with Bingo, these activities bring everyone closer together without breaking the bank.
So gather the family, bring out the snacks, and let the fun begin. After all, Christmas is about creating memories you’ll cherish forever. 🎄🎉
