The 5 Seconds Christmas game is a fun holiday party game that can be played with both kids and adults. Grab a category card, and name 3 things for that Christmas-themed category in 5 seconds or less. An easy and low-prep printable Christmas game!
Having a room full of family and friends, some strangers some only acquaintances, and having no plans to keep everyone entertained is a recipe for holiday disaster. You know what I mean – when you walk into a party and all you hear is crickets. Or everyone is huddled into small groups chatting only with the few people that they know, like a high school clique.
So when I throw a big holiday party, I like to have some fun games planned in advance. Whether it’s Christmas Charades or a fun “Find the Guest Who” game, these ice-breaker style games are a great way to get everyone involved and laughing at your Christmas party.
And the best part is, you only need a few basic supplies and less than 5 minutes to prep these Christmas party games! Here’s how to play the Christmas 5 seconds game and a free printable you can use to make it even easier:
What is the 5 Seconds Game?
The 5 Seconds Christmas game – based on the “Five Seconds Rule” game – is a quick-thinking, fast paced game that involves thinking of 3 things related to a Christmas-themed category. For instance, name 3 things that are used to wrap gifts, or name 3 things you put on a snowman.
The game can be played with kids or adults, or a mix of all ages. For younger players, you can allot more time to name 3 things (for instance, 15 seconds instead of 5 seconds). The object of the game is to earn the most points by coming up with 3 things to match each Christmas category in under 5 seconds.
How to Play the 5 Seconds Christmas Game
This free printable Christmas game is super easy to play, making it the perfect Christmas party activity for a large group! Here’s how to play the fun 5 Seconds Rule holiday game:
- Set up a timer – You’ll need a timer that has very short timing capabilities, like between 5-15 seconds. A cell phone timer or a 5 second hourglass is perfect for this.
- Draw a card – Have the first player pick a category card from the stack, keeping it turned over so they can’t see the prompt.
- Say 1, 2, 3, Go – The player turns over the card and has 5 seconds to list three items that fit the category. For example, if the prompt is “Name 3 Christmas movies,” the player might shout out “Elf, Home Alone, The Grinch!” If they list three valid items within the time, they earn a point.
- Go to the next player – If the first player answers correctly in 5 seconds, then they get a point. The next player immediately draws a new card and has 5 seconds to name 3 things. The fast pace keeps things fun and exciting for all ages.
- Chance to steal – If the first player can’t name 3 things in 5 seconds, then the next player has a chance to steal the point for that round. Start a new 5 second timer and allow the next player to try the same category card. However, they can’t name the same things that the previous player said.
- Keeping score – Use a piece of paper to keep track of the points. You can set a score limit (like first to 10 points) to determine the winner, or simply play for fun with no scoring.
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Other Variations on the 5 Seconds Game
Here are some other ways you can use the free printable Christmas game cards to make this easy holiday party game even more fun and challenging:
Split into Teams
The game play remains the same, the only difference is that you’re working in teams. So one player on the first team would choose a card and name 3 things in under 5 seconds. Then, one player for the second team would draw a card and take a turn.
If one team is not able to name three things to go with the category card, then the next team gets to try that same category card without naming any of the same things that the first team already mentioned. If the second team is successful, then they get to “steal” that point and then also draw a new card for their normal turn.
Rapid-Fire “Name 3” Game
Instead of alternating turns with each team or player getting 5 seconds with a single category card, this fast-paced version of the game involves setting a 1 or 2 minute timer and then continuously drawing cards to see how many you can complete before the timer goes off. You get one point for each category card successfully completed.
Free Printable 5 Seconds Christmas Game Cards
Want to play this easy Christmas game at your holiday party? This fun printable game is perfect for a large friends and family gathering, a classroom Christmas party, or a workplace holiday function! Just click the link below to download and print the free game cards:
Click HERE for the Free Printable Christmas 5 Seconds Game
Other Printable Christmas Party Games
If you loved this easy party game idea, then be sure to check out some of my other printable Christmas party games! Whether it’s with family around the fireplace or with tons of friends at your annual Christmas party, these holiday games are sure to create laughter, a little friendly competition, and many wonderful memories!
- Christmas Charades – This classic group game is great for all ages! From elementary-aged kids to grandparents, your party guests will get a kick out of acting out the Christmas-themed charades cards!
- Christmas “Find the Guest Who” Game – If you’re hosting a party for a bunch of work colleagues or friends that may not know each other as well, then this classic party game is the perfect icebreaker!
- Free Printable Christmas Dice Game – This game is the perfect addition to your holiday party gift exchange! And it’s completely free to print! Just grab some dice, have everyone sit in a circle with the wrapped gift that they brought to the party, and get ready for some gift exchange fun!
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