Seeking some festive indoor entertainment?
A Christmas-themed board game might just be the secret ingredient to sprinkle an extra dose of joy and laughter to your holiday gatherings, offering a delightful blend of camaraderie and gentle competition.
In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the best Christmas board games designed to weave precious memories and elevate your holiday moments with loved ones.
From games rich in strategic depth to those that promise light-hearted fun for all ages, discover the one that aligns with your festive celebration style.
What are the Best Christmas Board Games?
Here’s an easy-to-read list for you to help make your decision:
| Rank | Game Name | Price | # Players | Theme/Genre |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ticket to Ride: Nordic Countries | $29.99 | 2-3 | Strategic/Railway |
| 2 | Christmas-opoly | $24.82 | 2-6 | Economic/Trading |
| 3 | 12 Days | $17.28 | 3-5 | Card Game |
| 4 | Elf: Journey from the North Pole | $19.99 | 2-4 | Adventure/Movie-based |
| 5 | Holiday Fluxx | $19.99 | 2-6 | Card Game |
| 6 | Christmas Trivia | $13.95 | 2+ | Trivia/Knowledge |
| 7 | Home Alone Game | $24.99 | 2-4 | Strategy/Movie-based |
| 8 | Frosty the Snowman: Follow the Leader | $8.99 | 2-4 | Memory/Children’s |
| 9 | The Santa Claus Game | $22.99 | 2-4 | Adventure/Educational |
| 10 | 12 Games of Christmas | $11.49 | 2+ | Party Game |
| 11 | Santa Claus Charades | $5.99 | 3+ | Party Game/Charades |
Best Christmas Board Games – A Closer Look
1. Ticket to Ride: Nordic Countries
A festive journey through the snowy landscapes of the Nordic regions, Ticket to Ride: Nordic Countries is an incarnation of the popular Ticket to Ride series that specifically caters to 2-3 players, making it an intimate yet exciting board game for the holidays. Players collect cards of various types of train cars and use them to claim railway routes on a map.
Key Features
- Immersive Scenic Routes: Navigate through the picturesque Nordic countries.
- Compact and Cozy: Tailored for 2-3 players.
- Accessible: Easy-to-grasp rules, suitable for family members of different ages.
Bottom Line
Among the best Christmas board games, Ticket to Ride: Nordic Countries offers a cozy, engaging experience that captivates players with its scenic routes and strategic gameplay, weaving an enchanting evening for small gatherings.
2. Christmas-opoly
Christmas-opoly is a festive spin on the classic Monopoly, immersing players in a winter wonderland where traditions are celebrated and kindness is rewarded. Navigate through festivity-themed properties, partake in cheerful activities, and embody the spirit of giving and joy.
Key Features
- Festive Flair: Embellished with charming Christmas decorations and themes.
- Engaging for All Ages: Simplified rules with universal appeal.
- Emphasizes Traditional Values: Integrates classic Christmas narratives and virtues.
Bottom Line
With a blend of traditional board game charm and yuletide cheer, Christmas-opoly ranks high in the best Christmas board games, creating a milieu where stories are shared, traditions are honored, and friendly competition flourishes.
While you’re here, check out our other article on the best 3-player board games. They don’t have a holiday theme, but are still loads of fun and a great addition to the board game collection!
3. 12 Days
Inspired by the iconic Christmas carol, 12 Days invites players into a thematic card game of gift-giving and gathering. Players aim to offer the best gifts each day while also trying to acquire the most valuable array of presents by the twelfth day, intertwining the spirit of giving and receiving.
Key Features
- Thematic and Engaging: Integrates a beloved carol into gameplay.
- Strategic Gift-Giving: Involves decision-making and prediction.
- Visually Pleasing: Showcases vibrant and festive illustrations.
Bottom Line
12 Days merrily sings its way into the collection of best Christmas board games, where the cherished carol becomes a playground of strategic gift exchanges and joyful gatherings, mirroring the heartwarming generosity of the season.
4. Elf: Journey from the North Pole
Inspired by the beloved holiday film Elf, this game navigates players through a candy-coated journey, mirroring Buddy the Elf’s adventures from the North Pole to New York City. It’s a light-hearted, fun-filled adventure game that uplifts the holiday spirit through enchanting escapades.
Key Features
- Film-Based Adventures: Revisit beloved scenes from “Elf”.
- Interactive Gameplay: Engages players through a series of charming obstacles.
- Visually Delightful: Offers a vibrant and festive gameboard and components.
Bottom Line
Among the best Christmas board games, Elf: Journey from the North Pole warmly invites players into a world of sweet adventures and merry-making, ensuring gleeful gatherings during the holiday season.
5. Holiday Fluxx
Holiday Fluxx puts a seasonal twist on the well-loved card game known for its ever-changing rules. With every card played, actions morph and goals shift, all adorned with festive imagery and whimsical Christmas chaos. It’s a light, unpredictable gaming experience that infuses energy into any gathering.
Key Features
- Dynamic Gameplay: With evolving rules and objectives.
- Festive Elements: Incorporates traditional holiday symbols and themes.
- Accessible to Various Ages: Offers simple, adaptable rules for different players.
Bottom Line
Energetic and ever-surprising, Holiday Fluxx claims its spot among the best Christmas board games, promising a lively, laughter-filled festivity where every play brings a new unexpected twist.
6. Christmas Trivia
Christmas Trivia invites players to delve into their knowledge of holiday traditions, pop culture, and historical facts, wrapped in a package of festive fun. A game where memories, fun facts, and the joy of the season converge, it’s a delightful way to reminisce and learn new festive tidbits.
Key Features
- Educational and Fun: Merges holiday knowledge with entertainment.
- Inclusive: Engages players of all ages through various difficulty levels.
- Conversation Starter: Spurs discussions and shares of memories.
Bottom Line
A celebration of knowledge and tradition, Christmas Trivia affirms its place as one of the best Christmas board games, weaving together threads of memories, facts, and jovial interactions during the holiday season.
7. Home Alone Game
Get ready for a battle of wits and strategy with the Home Alone Game! This board game pits Kevin, the inventive youngster, against the bumbling burglars in a nostalgic nod to the iconic film. Players take turns being Kevin, who sets traps, and the Wet Bandits, who aim to loot the house while avoiding said traps.
Key Features
- Engaging Strategy Game: Shift between the roles of defender and infiltrator.
- Nostalgic Appeal: Brings the classic Christmas movie to the tabletop.
- Interactive Play: Involves active participant interaction and strategic planning.
Bottom Line
Ensuring fun, laughter, and a sprinkle of nostalgia, the Home Alone Game comfortably sneaks into our list of best Christmas board games, offering a unique and immersive experience that is sure to turn your game night into a lively strategic battle, reminiscent of the beloved holiday movie.
8. Frosty the Snowman: Follow the Leader
Navigate through a winter wonderland with Frosty the Snowman: Follow the Leader! A game that combines memory, sequences, and a dash of luck, players follow Frosty on a snowy adventure, aiming to remember and recreate his path accurately, all while enjoying the charm of the animated classic.
Key Features
- Memory and Luck: A blend of recall skills and chance.
- Iconic Character: Features the beloved Frosty and his friends.
- Family Bonding: Encourages shared fun across generations.
Bottom Line
With its gentle blend of memory-testing and the delightful jaunts of a classic character, Frosty the Snowman: Follow the Leader frolics into our lineup of best Christmas board games, offering a simple, engaging, and warmly nostalgic experience that lights up every holiday gathering.
9. The Santa Claus Game
The Santa Claus Game embraces the spirit of joyful giving, entwining elements of adventure, learning, and shared happiness into a delightful board game experience. Designed to celebrate not just the receiving, but more importantly, the giving of gifts during the festive season, this game embraces inclusivity and meaningful learning experiences for children aged 3 and up.
Key Features
- Joyful Adventures: A fresh and enchanting adventure with every play.
- Inclusive Design: Suitable for a broad age group, providing family-wide enjoyment.
- Educational & Social Learning: Teaches children about the values of giving and sharing through gameplay.
- Award-Winning: Recognized and endorsed by the National Parenting Center.
Bottom Line
Uniting the magic of Christmas with constructive learning and delightful adventures, The Santa Claus Game distinguishes itself as a charming and educational Christmas board game that emphasizes the altruistic spirit of the holiday season, offering families a heartwarming and thoughtful gameplay experience.
10. 12 Games of Christmas by Beat That!
A festive ensemble of 12 engaging party games, 12 Games of Christmas unfolds a kaleidoscope of merriment, inviting players into a realm where laughter, friendly competition, and the Christmas spirit intertwine. The game pack, designed to be universally entertaining for kids, teens, and adults, seamlessly becomes a centerpiece for lively and memorable holiday gatherings.
Key Features
- Versatile Entertainment: A bundle of 12 diverse games offering varied forms of enjoyment.
- Inclusive Design: Curated to be delightful and accessible to players across age groups.
- Complete Package: Comes with everything needed for a comprehensive festive gaming session.
- Gift-Worthy: Presents itself as a perfect Christmas gift or stocking stuffer.
Bottom Line
12 Games of Christmas brilliantly lights up the festive season, ensuring boundless joy and collective play. As one of the best Christmas board games, it radiates warmth, excitement, and an enchanting festive spirit, creating merry moments that will be cherished across all age groups.
11. Santa Claus Charades
Navigating through the universally loved game of charades with a holiday twist, Santa Claus Charades offers a sweet, playful journey where kids and adults collectively dive into a world of miming and guessing. Suitable for kids aged 6 and above, this game ensures that the merry vibrations of the Christmas spirit are felt vibrantly, with no reading required to dive into the fun.
Key Features
- Reading-Free Gameplay: Designed with visual cues to enable younger players to engage without reading requirements.
- Inclusive Fun: Crafted to be enjoyable for both kids and adults alike.
- Festive Theme: Embodies the Christmas spirit through charming Santa Claus and holiday-themed images.
- Versatile Usage: Ideal as a gift, stocking stuffer, or vibrant addition to any party or gathering.
Bottom Line
Santa Claus Charades elegantly frames the playful and exhilarating spirit of Christmas, providing a platform for unbridled joy and shared laughter amongst families and friends. Emphasizing simplicity, inclusivity, and a wholesome festive theme, it stands out as one of the Christmas board games that charmingly enliven any holiday gathering.
Christmas Board Game FAQs
Can Christmas board games be enjoyed by all age groups?
Absolutely! Christmas board games come in a wide variety, with options suitable for all age groups. Some games are designed with simple rules and playful themes to be family-friendly and accessible to children, while others might offer more strategic gameplay for adults. Always check the recommended age on the game box to ensure it’s appropriate for your gathering.
Where can I purchase Christmas-themed board games?
Christmas board games can be purchased in various places. Your local toy or game store likely carries a selection, especially as the holiday season approaches. Online retailers, such as Amazon, eBay, and the websites of game manufacturers, also offer a wide array of options, often with customer reviews to help you choose the right game for your gathering.
Are there educational Christmas board games available?
Yes, there are several Christmas board games on the market that blend festive fun with educational elements. Such games might involve memory, strategy, trivia about holiday traditions, or vocabulary skills, all wrapped in a cheerful Christmas theme. These games can offer a fun and subtle learning experience for kids during the holiday break.
Can Christmas board games be played virtually?
While traditional board games are designed for in-person play, many games now offer digital versions or online platforms where you can play with friends and family members remotely. Additionally, you might consider using video conferencing platforms to play certain games with simple rules (like trivia or Pictionary) virtually, ensuring everyone can join in the festive fun, no matter where they are.
How can I incorporate Christmas board games into my holiday party?
Incorporating Christmas board games into your holiday party can be a delightful addition that encourages interaction and merriment. You might consider setting up a dedicated game area, organizing a tournament with small prizes, or simply keeping games on hand for guests to enjoy at their leisure. Be sure to choose games with manageable playtimes and easy-to-understand rules to ensure accessibility and keep the festive spirit flowing seamlessly throughout the event.
Decking the Halls with Boughs of Strategy
Choosing a board game might not seem like a big festive decision (compared to, say, selecting the perfect tree or concocting your secret eggnog recipe), but trust us, the right game can be the secret sauce that spices up your Christmas gathering!
Your game choice can convert a calm, serene night into a blizzard of laughter, playful squabbles, and cherishing shared victories or savoring sweet defeats. It’s about more than just winning; it’s about creating memories, bonding, and perhaps igniting a few harmless rivalries along the way.
Why Board Games Make the Best Gifts
Not to be board of our own voice here, but board games are essentially the gift that keeps on giving. While gadgets and gizmos might lose their novelty, a good game can light up many a festive night for years to come.
- Evergreen Fun: They don’t become obsolete or go out of style.
- Bonding Across Generations: They allow grandparents and grandkids to bond over a shared mission.
- Unplug and Engage: They offer a delightful break from screens, bringing people present and together.
Tips to Select the Perfect Christmas Board Games
Yes, it’s tempting to just pick the game with the snazziest box or the most exciting blurb on the back. But choosing the best Christmas board games for your get-together might require a dash more strategy. Here are some tips:
- Age Appropriate: Ensure that the little ones can join in too!
- Easy to Learn: No one wants to spend their festive evening grappling with complex instructions.
- Duration: Opt for games that won’t take the entire evening to wrap up unless that’s the plan!
- Engagement Level: Select games that keep everyone hooked, involved, and in splits of laughter.
The Magic of Christmas Games Night
Christmas games nights are not just about the board games; it’s the joy, the playful banter, the collective groans, and cheers that make these moments unforgettable.
Creating a space where everyone from little Timmy to Grandpa Joe can engage, compete, and share a laugh creates a warm, vibrant Christmas spirit. So, select a game that sprinkles a bit of that magic into the evening, transforming it from a simple gathering into a cherished memory.
Wrapping It Up with a Bow (and perhaps, a winner’s crown)
The quest for the best Christmas board games is not just about ensuring an entertaining evening. It’s about curating experiences, moments, and hearty laughs that linger far beyond the festive season.
So, when you pick that box from the shelf or click that order button, envision the smiles, the playful glances, and the hearty cheers that will echo around your Christmas tree this year. May the dice roll in your favor, and may your holidays be ever merry and bright!
