Holiday Fun That Brings Families Together

The holidays are the perfect time to slow down, laugh a little louder, and create memories that last far beyond the season. One of our favorite ways to do this? Reindeer Games! 

These festive, Minute-to-Win-It–style games are simple, affordable, and adaptable for all ages—from little learners to teens and even grown-ups.

🦌 What Are Reindeer Games?

Reindeer Games are short, playful challenges using everyday household items like:

• Cups

• Marshmallows

• Candy canes

• Jingle bells

• Cotton balls

They’re perfect for:✔ Family nights✔ Holiday parties✔ Co-ops & classrooms✔ Multi-age groups

Most games take under one minute, which keeps energy high and frustration low!

🎄 Favorite Reindeer Game Ideas

Here are a few classics families love:

• Marshmallow Stack Attack – Build the tallest tower in 60 seconds

• Candy Cane Hook-Up – Transfer candy canes using only another candy cane

• Jingle Bell Toss – Aim bells into cups or containers

• Snowball Scoop – Move cotton balls using a spoon or spatula

• Cup Stack Dash – Stack and unstack cups in a specific pattern

🎥 Family-Friendly Game Inspiration

Need visuals or step-by-step ideas? These trusted sites and channels are packed with holiday game ideas:

Websites

• Play Party Planhttps://www.playpartyplan.com/reindeer-games/

• Happiness Is Homemadehttps://www.happinessishomemade.net/christmas-minute-to-win-it-games/

YouTube Channels

• What’s Up Momshttps://www.youtube.com/@WhatsUpMom

🌟 Turn Reindeer Games into a Game Design Challenge!

Want to take Reindeer Games one step further? Invite students to design their own holiday game! This simple activity blends creativity, problem-solving, writing, math, and critical thinking—all while keeping the holiday spirit alive.

🧠 Educational Skills Practiced

When students create their own game, they’re naturally working on:

• ELA: Writing clear instructions, sequencing steps, using descriptive language

• Math: Timing, counting, scoring systems, patterns, comparisons

• STEM: Testing, revising, cause & effect, design thinking

• Social Skills: Cooperation, sportsmanship, explaining rules to others

• Executive Functioning: Planning, organizing, evaluating what works

  
  

  🦌 Check out this fun, Reindeer Games Design Challenge outline to get started!