The holidays are a time for laughter, connection, and creating unforgettable memories—and what better way to celebrate than with a holiday game night? Whether you’re gathering family, friends, or coworkers, hosting a stress-free evening of fun is easier than you think. Follow this guide to plan the ultimate holiday game night, complete with mood-setting tips, snack ideas, and game recommendations to ensure everyone has a great time.
Bonus: we'll sneak in a few suggestions for games you’ll want to add to your collection, like the fast-paced and family-level strategic Kingdoms or party games like Codenames.
Setting the Mood for a Holiday Game Night
Creating the right atmosphere can elevate your game night from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are three ideas to inspire your holiday game night:
1. Cozy and Intimate
- Vibe: Think warm lighting, soft blankets, and everyone huddled around a fireplace.
- Decor: Add twinkling fairy lights, candles, and holiday-themed tablecloths.
- Best for: Family gatherings or close friends.
- Game Suggestions: Games that encourage storytelling or creativity, such as Kingdoms, Kids Against Maturity, or a themed white elephant exchange.
2. Festive Party
- Vibe: High energy, laughter, and a mix of holiday tunes.
- Decor: Bold colors, garlands, and party hats.
- Best for: Larger groups or work parties.
- Game Suggestions: Group-friendly games like Cards Against Humanity, the Heads Up! app, or a murder mystery game set in a holiday-themed whodunit.
3. Themed Extravaganza
- Vibe: Dress codes and immersive décor tied to a fun theme.
- Themes to Try: Ugly sweater competition, holiday movie characters, or a Santa-remix costume party (think Lumberjack Santa or an Mrs. Claus dressed for a beach vacation).
- Best for: Hardcore game enthusiasts or those who love a touch of drama.
- Game Suggestions: Theme-aligned games like Kingdoms for a medieval twist or a murder mystery dinner kit.
Planning the Perfect Guest List
Your guest list can make or break the night. Consider inviting:
- Family: Include kids aged 8+ for family-friendly games.
- Friends: Casual card games like Codenames or Kingdoms work well for mixed groups.
- Coworkers or Neighbors: Icebreakers like the Heads Up! app or party games help everyone relax.
The number of players is key. Games like Kingdoms can accommodate 2-8 players, making it versatile for intimate or larger gatherings.
Choosing the Right Venue
Holiday game nights can happen anywhere! Here are some venue ideas:
- At Home: The classic option for an intimate setting.
- Community Clubhouse or Church: Ideal for larger groups with shared spaces.
- Workplace: Add a festive twist to your office holiday party.
- Park or Backyard: For warmer climates, string lights and cozy seating bring the magic outside.
- Airbnb Weekend Retreat: Make it a multi-day event with games, relaxation, and sightseeing.
Snacks and Drinks to Keep the Energy Up
Keep your snacks easy to eat so players can stay engaged. Here are a few ideas:
- Savory: Mini sliders, charcuterie boards, and popcorn with creative toppings.
- Sweet: Holiday cookies, hot cocoa stations, and spiced apple cider.
- Drinks: Mocktails or holiday-themed cocktails like spiked eggnog.
- Pro Tip: Incorporate game pieces into your food presentation, such as cookies shaped like dice or game tokens.
Game Recommendations for Every Crowd
No game night is complete without the right selection of games. Here are some top picks:
For Competitive Players
- Kingdoms: A strategic card game where historical heroes battle for supremacy. Quick to learn and endlessly fun!
- Codenames: A word association game for quick thinkers.
For Family-Friendly Fun
- Kids Against Maturity: A laugh-out-loud card game that’s perfect for mixed-age groups.
- Heads Up! App: An interactive guessing game using smartphones.
For Themed Events
- Murder Mystery Party Kits: Transform your game night into a thrilling investigation.
- Game-Themed Secret Santa: Include small games or accessories in a gift exchange.
Our Game Night Suggestion: Kingdoms card game
If you're looking for a game that combines strategy, fun, and a hint of competition, Kingdoms is a must-have. Here's why:
- Fast-Paced: Each game takes just 20-40 minutes, perfect for game night.
- Flexible: Works for 2-8 players, so it's great for any crowd size.
- Engaging: Brings history to life with strategic battles featuring historical heroes.
Available for just $20, Kingdoms is an affordable addition to your collection—and a game you’ll return to every holiday season.
Stress-Free Hosting Tips
- Plan Ahead: Choose your games and set up the space the night before.
- Keep Rules Simple: Opt for games with easy-to-explain rules, like Kingdoms or Uno
- Delegate: Assign snack prep or game setup to different guests.
- Have a Backup Plan: Prepare an extra game or two in case your group wants more variety.
Conclusion: Make Holiday Memories with Games
Hosting a holiday game night doesn’t have to be stressful. With a cozy setup, tasty snacks, and the right mix of games like Kingdoms, you can create a magical evening that your guests will remember for years to come. So grab your favorite games, gather your loved ones, and let the holiday fun begin!
FAQs
1. What is the best game for a holiday game night with kids?
Games like Kids Against Maturity or Kingdoms are ideal for family-friendly fun.
2. Can I host a game night in a small apartment?
Absolutely! Keep the guest list small and focus on compact games like Codenames or Kingdoms.
3. How many games should I have ready for a game night?
Prepare 2-4 games to suit different interests and group sizes.
4. What’s a good theme for a holiday game night?
Try a medieval kingdom theme for playing Kingdoms, or host a festive murder mystery party.
5. How can I make game night affordable?
Stick to affordable games like Kingdoms or Cover Your Assets, which delivers hours of fun for under $20.
