Planning a Christmas party that works for everyone can feel like a challenge. You want entertainment that breaks down barriers between colleagues, keeps energy levels high, and creates those shared moments people talk about long after the decorations come down.
The right games do more than fill time; they bring people together, encourage conversation, and help colleagues see each other in a completely different light. Whether you're organising a small team gathering or a company-wide celebration, this guide covers ten games that work across different group sizes, venues, and comfort levels.
What Makes a Great Christmas Party Game?
Before diving into specific games, it's worth considering what separates memorable entertainment from forgettable filler. The best Christmas party games share a few key characteristics.
Inclusivity matters. Games should work for different personalities, abilities, and comfort levels, not everyone wants to perform in front of colleagues, whilst others thrive on being centre stage. Think about offering a mix of competitive activities and spectator-friendly options so everyone can participate in ways that suit them.
Practical considerations also play a role. Space constraints, available time, and group size all affect which games will work best. Professional interactive games remove the guesswork, they're designed to handle corporate events and arrive with everything needed for seamless setup.
Finally, consider energy flow. Starting with high-intensity activities when guests are still arriving rarely works – icebreakers that ease people in tend to be more effective, with energy building as the event progresses.
Interactive Christmas Games
1. Roll And Bowl Reindeer Racing
This four-player festive racing game brings genuine excitement to any Christmas party. Players roll balls up the playfield, scoring points to move their coloured reindeer around the track. With built-in LED lighting, a PA system, and automated commentary, it creates the atmosphere of a real race meeting.
The competitive format naturally draws crowds; spectators gather to cheer on their favourites whilst waiting for their turn to race. It's particularly effective as after-dinner entertainment when you want to raise energy levels and get people moving between tables.
Why it works for corporate events: The game accommodates mixed abilities, runs quickly enough to handle large numbers, and creates natural talking points between colleagues who might not usually interact.
2. Festive Batak Challenge
The Christmas-themed version of this reaction speed game tests reflexes and coordination as players race to hit illuminated targets within a set time. Colleagues gather to watch attempts, offer encouragement, and queue for their chance to beat the high score.
Christmas Batak Pro creates exactly the kind of friendly competition that breaks down workplace hierarchies. When a junior team member beats their manager's score, it becomes a story that gets retold throughout the evening, and beyond.
Why it works for corporate events: Simple rules mean anyone can play immediately, whilst the competitive element keeps engagement high. The leaderboard feature adds an ongoing thread of rivalry throughout your event.
3. Christmas Roller Bowler
This classic carnival skill game with festive theming challenges players to roll a "snowball" up a sloped track, aiming to crest the snowy hill and land it perfectly in Santa's winning zone. It sounds simple, but mastering it takes multiple attempts.
The Christmas Roller Bowler works brilliantly as background entertainment whilst guests mingle. People drift over, try their luck, and often return throughout the evening determined to crack the technique. It creates natural conversation as colleagues share tips and commiserate over near-misses.
Why it works for corporate events: No power required, compact footprint, and instantly understandable rules. It's ideal for venues with limited space or as part of a larger entertainment package.
4. Whack-a-Elf
A festive twist on the classic arcade game, Whack-an-Elf challenges players to tap the mischievous elves as they pop up, testing reactions and creating plenty of laughter. The familiar format means no explanation needed; people simply step up and play.
This game draws attention through sound and movement, naturally creating a focal point in your event space. It's particularly popular with guests who prefer shorter, action-packed activities rather than extended games.
Why it works for corporate events: High throughput means minimal queuing, whilst the light-hearted theme keeps the atmosphere fun and relaxed.
5. Prize Crane (Festive Edition)
The nostalgic arcade grabber reimagined for Christmas parties. Fill it with branded gifts, seasonal treats, or company merchandise, and watch colleagues strategise their approach to winning prizes. The festive edition adds seasonal theming that photographs brilliantly for social media.
Prize Cranes create sustained engagement, people return repeatedly, convinced they've worked out the winning technique. The prize element adds genuine stakes that keep interest high throughout the evening.
Why it works for corporate events: Can be fully branded with company logos and messaging, turning entertainment into a marketing opportunity. The prizes you choose can reinforce company culture or reward staff.
6. Snowflake Plinko
Players drop discs through a field of pegs, watching as they bounce unpredictably before landing in scoring zones. The suspense of watching a disc make its journey creates genuine tension and excitement, followed by cheers or groans depending on where it lands.
Plinko works as both individual entertainment and a spectator sport. The element of chance means anyone can win, levelling the playing field between colleagues regardless of skill or experience.
Why it works for corporate events: Can be customised with company branding, requires minimal space, and creates the kind of visible activity that draws people over to investigate.
High-Energy Competition Games
7. Batak Pro
The full-scale reaction wall takes the Batak challenge to another level. With larger targets and more demanding gameplay, Batak Pro creates a genuine athletic challenge that gets hearts pumping and competitive spirits flowing.
This game particularly suits events where you want to raise energy levels or create a centrepiece attraction. Crowds naturally form around impressive scores, creating the buzz and atmosphere that transforms a good party into a memorable one.
Why it works for corporate events: Fully brandable, suitable for all skill levels, and creates the kind of visible excitement that keeps energy high throughout your event.
8. Retro Arcade Games
Sometimes the classics work best. A selection of retro arcade machines featuring Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, and other favourites creates a nostalgic entertainment zone where colleagues can challenge each other to the games of their youth.
The two-player format on many machines encourages head-to-head competition, whilst the variety means there's something for everyone. These games suit guests who prefer self-directed entertainment over organised activities.
Why it works for corporate events: Creates a relaxed, social atmosphere. Guests can play at their own pace without feeling they're holding up a queue or being watched.
9. Photo Booth and Magic Mirror
Every Christmas party needs a photo opportunity, and professional photo entertainment delivers exactly that. Guests capture memories with festive props and filters, leaving with printed keepsakes that remind them of the evening.
Beyond the photos themselves, the booth creates a natural gathering point where colleagues pose together – often in combinations that wouldn't happen otherwise. These shared moments build connections that extend beyond the party itself.
Why it works for corporate events: Branded frames and overlays turn every photo into marketing material. Digital sharing options extend your event's reach across social media.
10. Dance Machine
When the evening calls for movement and music, the Dance Machine delivers. Players follow on-screen sequences, competing to match the moves whilst Christmas songs play. With adjustable difficulty levels, it works for dancing novices and those who fancy themselves as professionals.
The head-to-head format creates entertaining showdowns, whilst spectators often find themselves joining in from the sidelines. It's particularly effective later in the evening when guests have relaxed.
Why it works for corporate events: The Christmas playlist ties directly into the festive theme, whilst the visible gameplay creates entertainment for watchers as well as participants.
How to Choose the Right Games for Your Event
Selecting games isn't just about what sounds fun – it's about matching entertainment to your specific situation.
Consider your venue. Space constraints determine what's practical. Games like the Roller Bowler work in compact spaces, whilst Reindeer Racing needs more room. All games require standard UK mains power, so check socket availability with your venue.
Think about your guest mix. Balance high-energy options for extroverts with lower-pressure alternatives for those who prefer observing. A combination of competitive games and self-directed entertainment ensures everyone can participate comfortably.
Plan your timing. Position gentler games near arrival areas for icebreaking, save high-energy competitions for mid-event when guests have relaxed, and consider photo entertainment for capturing memories as the evening progresses.
Consider multiple games. Larger events benefit from several entertainment options, creating zones where different activities happen simultaneously. This prevents queuing and gives guests variety throughout the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are good Christmas party games for large groups?
Games that allow simultaneous participation or have high throughput work best. Reindeer Racing accommodates four players at once, whilst Prize Cranes and Roller Bowlers keep queues moving quickly. For very large events, consider multiple games positioned across your venue.
How far in advance should I book Christmas games?
Christmas is the busiest season for entertainment hire, so booking six to eight weeks in advance is advisable to guarantee availability – particularly for December dates.
Can Christmas games be branded with company logos?
Yes. Most interactive games can be fully customised with corporate branding, logos, and messaging. This turns entertainment into a marketing opportunity and creates cohesive visual experiences.
What's included with game hire?
Professional game hire typically includes UK-wide delivery, setup by trained technicians, and collection after your event. Some packages include on-site support during the event itself.
Making Your Christmas Party Memorable
The best Christmas party games create moments that bring colleagues together – whether that's cheering on a Reindeer Racing victory, laughing at Whack-an-Elf attempts, or competing for the highest Batak score.
Think about what suits your specific event, your venue, and your guests. A thoughtful mix of activities that considers different personalities and preferences will always outperform a single game that only works for some.
If you're considering interactive entertainment for your Christmas celebration, it's worth discussing your requirements early – popular dates book quickly during the festive season. Get in touch to check availability and receive a quote tailored to your event.
<< Return to news