Christmas bingo cards
A game that works with grandparents and five-year-olds at the same table. Print a stack of Christmas cards - candy canes, snowmen, a nutcracker - and call them out over cocoa.
40 holiday words ready to go, or add your family's own traditions.
Three ways to play
Classic calling
Write each word on a slip of paper, pull them from a stocking one at a time, and read them out. The caller sheet lists every word so you can check a winning card.
Christmas movie bingo
No caller needed. Put on a holiday movie and let everyone mark a square whenever it appears on screen - a sleigh, falling snow, someone in an ugly sweater. Familiar films work best because the kids know what's coming.
Class party bingo
Room parents: bingo fills twenty minutes with almost no setup. Print one card per student, bring something small to use as markers, and give stickers or candy canes as prizes so every table has a winner by the end.
Markers that feel festive
Mini marshmallows, red and green candies, or small pieces of peppermint make the game part of the treat. If you'd rather keep food off the cards, pennies or holiday stickers work too.
For younger players
Kids who are still learning to read do better with the 3×3 grid and simple words. Read each word slowly and point to it on your own card so they can match the shape of the letters. Older kids can take the full 5×5 and play for blackout.
Questions
Can we play during a Christmas movie?
Yes. Skip the caller and have everyone mark a square when that thing shows up on screen. Pick words that are likely to appear in the film you are watching.
What can kids use as markers?
Mini marshmallows, small candies, pennies or holiday stickers. For reusable cards, slide them into sheet protectors and use dry-erase markers.
Is it good for kids who can't read yet?
Use the 3×3 grid with short, familiar words and have an adult read each call slowly. Pointing to the word on a sample card helps them find the match.
Can I add my own Christmas words?
Yes. The starter list is fully editable - add family names, a favorite ornament, or anything your family does every year.