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25 Christmas Left Right Games

If your Christmas party needs a guaranteed laugh that gets everyone involved (even the quiet cousins), the Left Right game is my go-to because it’s easy and chaotic in the best way.

All you need is a pile of small wrapped gifts, a stack of printer paper, and a one-minute sand timer to keep things moving.

Four people sit in a festive room, exchanging gifts and smiling as they play a Holiday Party Game. The text above them reads, "25 Christmas Left Right Games," with holiday decorations and wrapped presents visible.

1. Santa’s Workshop Mix-Up

This one feels like you’re inside the North Pole when the elves get a little too confident with their “organization.” It’s perfect for big family groups because the LEFT/RIGHT cues come fast and everyone ends up laughing.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Have everyone sit in a circle and place one wrapped gift in their lap so it’s easy to pass.
  2. Choose one “reader” and hand them the story on a clipboard; tell them to read slowly and clearly, pausing a beat on every LEFT and RIGHT.
  3. Ring a jingle bell to start, then read this out loud:

    At Santa’s workshop, the head elf checked the list, then looked LEFT and looked RIGHT and realized the labels were upside down. He walked LEFT to the toy trains, turned RIGHT to the teddy bears, and whispered, “Nobody panic.” Santa stepped RIGHT into the room, then LEFT again because he forgot his gloves. An elf on the RIGHT shelf handed him cocoa, and an elf on the LEFT shelf handed him a cookie. Santa took the cookie, passed it RIGHT, then reached LEFT for a napkin. “Okay,” Santa said, “we pack gifts from LEFT to RIGHT.” The elves started passing boxes RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again when the ribbon got tangled. A reindeer poked its nose in from the LEFT door and sneezed glitter. Santa laughed, turned RIGHT to the map, and said, “We’re still on schedule!” The head elf nodded LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again because he was dizzy. Just then, the smallest elf tripped, slid RIGHT under the table, and popped up on the LEFT side like it was magic. Santa clapped, stepped LEFT, stepped RIGHT, and announced, “Whatever gift you’re holding when I say ho-ho-ho is yours!”
  4. If your group is energetic, flip the pace for the last few sentences by reading a little faster (it makes the final passes extra funny).
  5. When the story ends, everyone keeps the gift they’re holding—then snap a quick photo and start a new round with a different theme.

2. Reindeer Games on the Runway

This theme is playful and kid-friendly with lots of movement cues that feel like a silly “reindeer practice.” It’s great for classrooms or family parties where everyone wants something light and fast.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Seat everyone in a circle and remind them the gift always moves in the direction you say: LEFT goes one person left, RIGHT goes one person right.
  2. Give the reader reindeer antlers if you want extra laughs, and have them practice saying LEFT and RIGHT clearly.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The reindeer lined up on the runway and Coach Donner shouted, “Look LEFT! Look RIGHT!” Rudolph blinked, took one step LEFT, then one step RIGHT, just to show off. The herd trotted RIGHT past the snack station, then LEFT around the cone, then RIGHT again when the wind howled. “We’re doing turns today,” Coach Donner said, pointing LEFT and then RIGHT like a traffic director. Rudolph turned RIGHT to wink at Santa, then LEFT to avoid an elf carrying bells. The elf spun RIGHT, the bells jingled LEFT, and everyone laughed. “Focus!” Coach Donner said, walking LEFT with a serious face, then RIGHT with a grin. The reindeer practiced: LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT, RIGHT, until their hooves felt like drumbeats. Santa peeked in from the RIGHT side and said, “One more lap!” The herd ran LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again when Rudolph’s nose lit up like a runway sign. “Perfect,” Santa said, turning RIGHT to the sleigh and LEFT to the checklist. “Whatever gift you’re holding at the finish line is your warm-up prize!”
  4. For a bonus twist, set a timer for 60 seconds and see if the reader can finish the story before it ends (no stress, just fun).
  5. Hand out an optional tiny reward from a prize assortment for “best reindeer impression.”

3. Gingerbread House Disaster

This story is perfect if you want cozy baking vibes without actually baking anything. The LEFT/RIGHT cues feel like a frosting-and-candy scramble.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Pass out one wrapped gift to each player and have everyone sit shoulder-to-shoulder so passing is easy.
  2. Optional but fun: place a gingerbread house kit in the middle as “the scene” for the story.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    I set the gingerbread walls on the table and told everyone, “No touching until I say go.” My cousin on the LEFT immediately touched the icing, and my aunt on the RIGHT gasped like it was a crime show. I reached LEFT for the gumdrops, but someone slid the bowl RIGHT out of range. The frosting bag went RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again as if it had its own plan. “Roof pieces!” I yelled, turning LEFT to find them, then RIGHT when the dog tried to steal one. My little brother held the roof RIGHT-side up, then flipped it LEFT-side down by accident. We tried again: LEFT hand steady, RIGHT hand frosting, LEFT hand candy, RIGHT hand patience. The house leaned LEFT, then RIGHT, then did a dramatic slide to the LEFT like it was dancing. Everyone laughed, and I said, “Okay, new rule: pass the supplies LEFT and RIGHT until it stands.” We passed the candy RIGHT, the frosting LEFT, the roof RIGHT, the napkins LEFT, and somehow the house stood up like it was proud. “Victory!” my aunt shouted, pointing RIGHT to the chimney and LEFT to the door. Then we froze—because whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your sweet surprise.
  4. If you want the group extra giggly, tell the reader to add dramatic pauses before every LEFT and RIGHT like they’re announcing a competition.
  5. End the round with a quick “show your gift” moment, then ring the bell to start the next theme.

4. Christmas Lights Tangled Trouble

This theme is for anyone who has ever fought with a knot of lights and lost. It’s super relatable and moves quickly.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Have everyone hold their gift with both hands so it doesn’t drop during fast passes LEFT and RIGHT.
  2. If you’re using props, place string lights in the center like the “enemy knot.”
  3. Read this story out loud:

    I found the Christmas lights in the closet and thought, “This year will be easy.” I was wrong. The plug was stuck LEFT, the middle was twisted RIGHT, and the end was hiding somewhere LEFT of my patience. I pulled RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, and the knot tightened like it was laughing. My dad looked LEFT and said, “Try the other side.” My mom looked RIGHT and said, “No, not that side.” I handed the bundle LEFT to my sister, and she handed it RIGHT back like it was hot lava. We tried teamwork: pull LEFT, hold RIGHT, loop LEFT, untwist RIGHT. The lights wrapped around my wrist LEFT, then my elbow RIGHT, then my pride LEFT. Finally, I set them down, turned RIGHT to the tree, and said, “We’re going to pretend these are fine.” The dog trotted LEFT and sat RIGHT on the plug. We all stared LEFT, then RIGHT, then burst out laughing. “New plan,” my dad said, pointing RIGHT to the snacks and LEFT to the couch. “Whatever gift you’re holding at the moment we give up… is yours.”
  4. For a fun finish, have everyone freeze when the last sentence starts, then laugh and open gifts after the round ends.

5. Ugly Sweater Fashion Show

This one is loud and goofy, and it’s perfect if your party already has silly outfits. The story feels like a runway walk with LEFT/RIGHT turns.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Seat everyone in a circle and tell them the game is like a “runway”: gifts move LEFT and RIGHT on cue, no skipping.
  2. If you want, cue music from a portable speaker and have the reader wear a ridiculous ugly sweater.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The ugly sweater fashion show began with a dramatic spin to the LEFT and a wink to the RIGHT. One sweater had a giant pom-pom on the RIGHT shoulder and a blinking reindeer on the LEFT sleeve. The announcer pointed LEFT and shouted, “Work it!” then pointed RIGHT and shouted, “Strut!” Everyone clapped RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again like confused seals. A contestant turned LEFT too fast and nearly fell RIGHT into the snack table. Another contestant walked RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, showing off a sweater that jingled louder on the LEFT side. The crowd cheered LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT like they were at a parade. The judges leaned RIGHT to whisper, then LEFT to giggle. Finally, the winner took a bow LEFT and a bow RIGHT, and the announcer yelled, “Freeze!” Because whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your trophy.
  4. If your group is big, do a second quick round and let a new reader “announce” with extra dramatic LEFT/RIGHT calls.

6. Stocking Stuffers Gone Wild

This one feels cozy and sweet, but it still has plenty of chaos with the passing. Great for younger kids because the story is simple and playful.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone to keep their gift in their lap and pass gently LEFT or RIGHT so nothing falls.
  2. Optional: hang stockings nearby to set the scene.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The stockings hung in a neat row—until my little cousin on the LEFT decided they needed “more sparkle.” She ran RIGHT to grab stickers, then LEFT to grab tape, then RIGHT again to show everyone. My brother looked LEFT and said, “That stocking is upside down.” My mom looked RIGHT and said, “It’s fine, it’s festive.” We passed tiny goodies LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, trying to fill each stocking evenly. Someone shook a stocking RIGHT beside my ear, and jingle bells went LEFT into my brain. The dog trotted LEFT and tried to steal the fluff, so we scooted RIGHT to block him. Finally, my dad said, “Okay, last swap!” and pointed LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again for good luck. Everyone laughed, because whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your stocking surprise.
  4. Finish by letting everyone keep the gift they’re holding and do a quick “show-and-tell” if your group likes that.

7. Christmas Movie Night Mishaps

This theme is perfect for a cozy living room crowd and feels like a funny holiday movie scene. It’s easy for teens and adults to get into.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Turn down the lights, toss a couple throw blankets on the couch, and gather everyone in a circle on the floor or chairs.
  2. Explain that the passing should be smooth and quiet, like “movie theater rules,” but the laughter is allowed.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    We finally agreed on a Christmas movie, but the remote was missing—again. I checked LEFT between the cushions, then RIGHT under the blanket, then LEFT again behind the pillow mountain. My sister looked RIGHT and said, “It’s always in your lap.” My brother looked LEFT and said, “Nope, it’s under the popcorn.” We passed the bowl RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, and the remote still didn’t appear. Someone pointed LEFT at the dog, and the dog stared RIGHT back like he was innocent. I leaned LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and found the remote RIGHT beside my foot the whole time. Everyone groaned, then laughed, then reached LEFT for snacks and RIGHT for drinks. The movie started, and at the funniest part, my cousin turned LEFT and whispered spoilers, so we all turned RIGHT and shushed him dramatically. “Okay,” I said, “quiet now—whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your movie-night prize.”
  4. If you want to keep it moving, do a second round right away so people don’t lose momentum.

8. Caroling Crew Confusion

This one is energetic and works great for a loud group that loves being dramatic. The story has a “walking around the neighborhood” feel.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Have the reader hold sleigh bells and jingle them once before starting the story.
  2. Tell everyone to pass gifts quickly on LEFT and RIGHT cues, just like “walking door to door.”
  3. Read this story out loud:

    Our caroling crew met at the end of the driveway, and the leader held the songbook RIGHT in the air like a flag. We marched LEFT down the sidewalk, then RIGHT up the next walkway, then LEFT again when we heard a dog bark. Someone jingled bells RIGHT beside my ear, and I nearly jumped LEFT out of my boots. We sang one verse, then the leader turned RIGHT and said, “Next house!” We shuffled LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again because the porch steps were icy. The tallest cousin stood RIGHT in front like a microphone, while the smallest cousin hid LEFT behind a scarf. A neighbor opened the door on the RIGHT side and waved, and we all waved LEFT back like confused penguins. After the last note, we turned LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and the leader whispered, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your ‘best caroler’ prize.”
  4. End with a quick cheer and let someone new be the reader for the next theme.

9. Ornament Exchange Oops

This story feels like classic tree-decorating chaos and works for any age group. It’s especially fun if your family has “that one ornament” everyone remembers.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Place a few shatterproof ornaments in the middle if you want the theme to feel extra real.
  2. Have everyone hold their gift securely and agree on “one pass per cue” so the circle stays fair.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    We opened the ornament box and immediately argued about which ones go LEFT and which ones go RIGHT on the tree. My mom handed an ornament LEFT and said, “Top half only.” My dad handed one RIGHT and said, “No rules, just sparkle.” I reached LEFT for the star ornament, but my sister reached RIGHT for it first, so we both froze and laughed. The hooks went RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again like tiny metal secrets. Someone dropped a hook LEFT of the tree skirt, and everyone leaned RIGHT to look for it. We hung one ornament on the RIGHT side, then one on the LEFT side, then someone insisted the candy cane should go RIGHT next to the lights. The tree leaned LEFT, the cat leaned RIGHT, and the whole room held its breath. “Okay,” my dad said, “no more decisions—just pass and hang.” We passed ornaments LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again until the tree looked perfectly chaotic. Then my mom smiled and said, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your ornament exchange win.”
  4. Wrap up by letting everyone keep their gift and optionally take a group photo by the tree.

10. Hot Cocoa Bar Frenzy

This theme feels cozy and sweet, especially for winter parties or sleepovers. The story has lots of quick cues so it stays lively.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Set the scene by placing a few cocoa props in the middle, like mini marshmallows or holiday cups.
  2. Tell the reader to emphasize LEFT and RIGHT like they’re directing a busy kitchen.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The hot cocoa bar looked adorable—until everyone lined up at once. I reached LEFT for marshmallows, but someone grabbed them RIGHT out of my hand like a magician. The spoons were on the RIGHT, the cups were on the LEFT, and the cocoa mix was somehow RIGHT in the middle of everything. My cousin stirred RIGHT too fast, and the spoon clinked LEFT against the mug like a drum. Someone sprinkled toppings LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again like it was confetti. I turned RIGHT to grab napkins, turned LEFT to grab more cups, and turned RIGHT again because someone shouted, “We’re out!” The whipped topping leaned LEFT, the candy canes leaned RIGHT, and the whole counter looked like a snowstorm happened. Finally, my aunt said, “No more crowding—pass it around!” We passed the cups LEFT, the spoons RIGHT, the toppings LEFT, and the laughter RIGHT through the whole room. Then my aunt winked and said, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your cocoa bar prize.”
  4. End the round and let everyone keep the gift they landed with.

11. Christmas Eve Sneaky Footsteps

This story feels like a classic Christmas Eve night with surprises around every corner. It’s great if your party leans cozy and nostalgic.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Dim the lights a little and let the reader hold a flashlight if you want a “sneaky” vibe.
  2. Remind everyone to pass quietly but quickly when they hear LEFT or RIGHT.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    Christmas Eve was quiet until I heard soft footsteps on the RIGHT side of the hallway. I rolled LEFT in my bed, then RIGHT again, trying to see without getting caught. The floor creaked LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT like the house was whispering secrets. I tiptoed RIGHT to the doorway, then slid LEFT behind the wall like a spy. A shadow moved RIGHT past the living room, and a tiny jingle sounded LEFT near the tree. I looked LEFT and saw the stockings, then RIGHT and saw a sparkle by the fireplace. My heart thumped RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again like a drum. I stepped LEFT, then RIGHT, and nearly bumped into my brother, who pointed LEFT and mouthed, “Santa?” We both froze, then slowly backed RIGHT into the darkness. The jingles went LEFT, the shadow went RIGHT, and suddenly everything was still. Then my brother grinned and whispered, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours—no peeking.”
  4. Stop on the last line, smile dramatically, and let everyone keep the gift they ended with.

12. Snow Day School Surprise

This one is perfect for classroom parties or families with lots of kids. The theme feels like a cheerful “no school!” moment.

Supplies

Directions

  1. If you’re playing with kids, write “LEFT = pass left, RIGHT = pass right” on a dry erase board as a quick reminder.
  2. Do a 10-second practice round: say LEFT once, then RIGHT once, so everyone gets it.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The snow fell so hard that the school called off classes, and everyone cheered RIGHT in the hallway. I ran LEFT to the window, then RIGHT to the door, then LEFT again because I couldn’t believe it. My teacher smiled and pointed RIGHT at the whiteboard where “Snow Day!” was written, then LEFT at the pile of homework nobody wanted. We grabbed our coats RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again as we raced outside. Someone tossed a snowball LEFT, and it landed RIGHT in a snowbank with a poof. We built a snowman on the RIGHT side of the yard, then a tiny snowman on the LEFT side for its “baby.” The wind blew LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and our scarves flapped like flags. When it was time to come inside, we stomped RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, laughing the whole way. “Snow day reward,” the teacher announced, “whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours.”
  4. Let everyone keep the gift, then choose another theme if the group wants to keep playing.

13. Candy Cane Mystery Case

This one feels like a silly detective story, which makes it fun for older kids and teens. The LEFT/RIGHT cues are woven into “clue hunting” moments.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone the story has “clues,” so the reader will pause slightly on LEFT and RIGHT like a detective reveal.
  2. Optional: hand the reader a magnifying glass prop for extra drama.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The case began when the candy canes vanished from the bowl. I checked LEFT of the couch, then RIGHT behind the tree, then LEFT again near the stockings. A suspicious crinkle sounded RIGHT by the kitchen, so I tiptoed RIGHT, then LEFT when the floor squeaked. My sister pointed LEFT and whispered, “I saw something.” My brother pointed RIGHT and said, “It wasn’t me.” I opened the closet on the RIGHT and found wrapping paper, then opened the drawer on the LEFT and found glitter—classic distractions. The dog walked LEFT with a guilty face, then RIGHT with a wag like he was innocent. I followed the trail LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again until I saw a candy cane wrapper RIGHT under the table. “Aha!” I said, turning LEFT to announce my discovery and RIGHT to stare at the suspects. Everyone burst out laughing when the culprit was… the toddler, holding two candy canes, one in the LEFT hand and one in the RIGHT. “Case closed,” I said. “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours.”
  4. Finish the round and let the group vote on the “funniest suspect” before moving on.

14. Polar Express Ticket Mix-Up

This theme feels magical and cozy, like a train ride to the North Pole. It’s especially fun for movie-night parties.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Optional: hand out ticket props to get everyone excited before you begin.
  2. Have the reader slow down for the first half, then speed up slightly near the end like the train is “picking up steam.”
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The train whistle sounded, and I clutched my ticket in the RIGHT hand and my scarf in the LEFT. The conductor stomped LEFT down the aisle, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, punching tickets like a pro. “Tickets!” he called, leaning RIGHT to check mine, then LEFT to check my cousin’s. Someone dropped a ticket LEFT of the seat, so we all leaned RIGHT to see where it went. The train rocked RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again as it sped through snow. A cart rolled LEFT with cocoa, then RIGHT with cookies, and everyone tried to grab at once. I reached LEFT for a cookie and bumped RIGHT into an elbow, and we both laughed. The conductor pointed RIGHT and said, “North Pole next stop!” Then he pointed LEFT and said, “Hold on!” The train shook LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and when it finally stopped, the conductor smiled and said, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours.”
  4. End the round and optionally keep the ticket props as little souvenirs.

15. Christmas Morning Race to the Tree

This story feels like pure Christmas morning excitement with cousins running everywhere. It’s a great pick if your group is already hyped.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone to imagine they’re racing to the tree, so the reader will keep the pace lively.
  2. Set a timer for 90 seconds if you want this to be a quick “speed round.”
  3. Read this story out loud:

    Christmas morning started with footsteps pounding from the LEFT hallway to the RIGHT living room. I jumped out of bed, pulled my blanket LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again because I was tangled. The cousins ran RIGHT to the tree, then LEFT to the stockings, then RIGHT again when someone shouted, “Santa came!” My mom stood LEFT of the tree with her camera, and my dad stood RIGHT of the couch with a coffee like he was judging us. I tried to sit RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again because someone stole my spot. A bow flew LEFT, a ribbon flew RIGHT, and laughter flew everywhere. We passed gifts RIGHT to the youngest cousin, then LEFT to the next, then RIGHT again because we couldn’t keep track. “Okay, pause,” my mom said, raising her hand LEFT and her camera RIGHT. “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours—smile!”
  4. After the round, take a quick photo (optional) and start the next story while everyone’s still laughing.

16. Nutcracker Guard Duty

This theme feels a little fancy and storybook-ish, which makes it fun for mixed ages. The LEFT/RIGHT cues are steady and easy to follow.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone this round is “royal,” so passing should be smooth and polite—LEFT, then RIGHT, no tossing.
  2. Optional: place a nutcracker decoration in the center like it’s guarding the circle.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The nutcracker stood RIGHT by the fireplace, guarding the room like a tiny soldier. I crept LEFT to see his shiny hat, then RIGHT to see his painted smile. The clock ticked LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and suddenly the nutcracker’s eyes looked like they moved. “Did you see that?” my cousin whispered on the LEFT, and my sister whispered on the RIGHT, “Absolutely not.” The nutcracker tapped RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again like he was marching. We all sat still—until the tiniest cousin pointed LEFT and gasped, “He’s coming!” The nutcracker marched RIGHT across the rug, then LEFT around the chair, then RIGHT toward the tree. Everyone scooted LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, trying not to laugh. Finally, the nutcracker stopped RIGHT in the center, saluted LEFT, saluted RIGHT, and froze again like nothing happened. Then my aunt said, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your royal reward.”
  4. End with a dramatic bow and move to the next theme.

This story is sweet and chaotic, like a baking show where everyone talks at once. It’s perfect for families who love cookie traditions.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone the LEFT/RIGHT cues are the “kitchen chaos,” so keep passing even if you’re laughing.
  2. Optional: the reader can wear a holiday apron for full baking-show energy.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The cookie bake-off began with a dramatic countdown, and someone on the LEFT yelled, “Go!” The rolling pin was RIGHT where it shouldn’t be, and the sprinkles were LEFT where nobody could reach. I grabbed a cutter LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again because they kept sliding. My brother dumped sprinkles RIGHT onto the counter like it was snowfall, and my sister swept them LEFT into a pile like a tiny snowplow. The timer beeped RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again as if it was impatient. Someone tried to frost a cookie and smeared icing LEFT across their sleeve, and we all laughed so hard we leaned RIGHT in our chairs. The cookies came out—some perfectly RIGHT, some very LEFT-of-perfect. We lined them up RIGHT on the tray, then LEFT on the plate, then RIGHT again for “taste testing.” Finally, the judge announced, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your bake-off prize!”
  4. End the round and let everyone keep their gift, then pick the next theme based on your crowd.

18. Elf Training School

This theme is silly and energetic, perfect for kids and big groups. It feels like a goofy obstacle course with lots of quick cues.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Put the reader in an elf hat and tell them to read like a coach giving fast instructions.
  2. Have everyone practice one LEFT pass and one RIGHT pass before the story begins.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    Welcome to elf training school! Coach Elfington pointed LEFT and shouted, “Wrap!” then pointed RIGHT and shouted, “Tape!” The trainees ran LEFT to the bows, RIGHT to the ribbon, LEFT to the tags, and RIGHT to the scissors—except the scissors were missing. “No problem,” Coach said, turning RIGHT and then LEFT like a tornado. “We improvise!” The trainees passed supplies RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, wrapping invisible gifts with dramatic flair. One trainee tripped LEFT over a pile of paper and rolled RIGHT back into line like it was part of the plan. “Next drill!” Coach yelled, pointing LEFT. “Smile!” then pointing RIGHT. “Jingle!” Everyone jingled LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again until the room sounded like a sleigh. Coach Elfington nodded RIGHT and said, “Graduation time—whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours!”
  4. End the round with a silly “graduation cheer,” then start a new theme with a new reader.

19. The Great Gift Tag Swap

This story is perfect for anyone who has ever lost a tag and panicked. It’s relatable, quick, and always gets laughs.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone this round is “high stakes,” so the reader should pause slightly on each LEFT and RIGHT for drama.
  2. Optional: wave gift tags like evidence in a mystery.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    I finished wrapping every present and felt proud—until I noticed a tag missing. I checked LEFT on the floor, then RIGHT under the table, then LEFT again by the tape dispenser. My sister looked RIGHT and said, “That one isn’t labeled.” My brother looked LEFT and said, “Uh-oh.” We grabbed tags RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, trying to match handwriting like detectives. The marker rolled LEFT off the table, and the tape stuck RIGHT to my elbow like a warning. I peeled it LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again until it finally let go. Someone slapped a tag RIGHT on the wrong present, and my mom shouted LEFT, “Stop!” We all froze RIGHT in place, then laughed. “New rule,” my dad announced, pointing LEFT and then RIGHT. “No more tags—whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours!”
  4. End the round quickly to keep the punchline landing strong.

20. Winter Wonderland Animal Parade

This one is extra cute for kids because it features friendly winter animals and silly movement. The LEFT/RIGHT cues are easy and steady.

Supplies

Directions

  1. If kids are playing, you can quickly show them LEFT and RIGHT with your hands before starting.
  2. Optional: set a plush penguin in the center as the “parade leader.”
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The winter animal parade began when the penguin waddled LEFT and the reindeer pranced RIGHT. A fox dashed LEFT behind a snowbank, and a bunny hopped RIGHT into the open like it owned the place. The owl turned its head RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, watching the whole show. The penguin slid LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, doing a belly-slide that made everyone laugh. The reindeer trotted RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, jingling bells like a tiny band. The animals lined up: penguin on the LEFT, reindeer on the RIGHT, bunny on the LEFT, fox on the RIGHT. Then the penguin announced, “Parade prizes!” and everyone cheered LEFT and RIGHT at the same time. “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now,” the penguin declared, “is yours!”
  4. End with a quick “waddle” or “reindeer prance” vote if your group likes extra silliness.

21. Christmas Tree Topper Drama

This one is for families who have a yearly debate about the topper. It’s funny, fast, and super relatable.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone this story has “arguments,” so expect quick LEFT/RIGHT moments and laughter.
  2. Optional: hold up a star topper and a angel topper to set the scene.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The tree was decorated, and only one decision remained: star or angel. My mom stood LEFT of the tree and said, “Angel.” My dad stood RIGHT of the tree and said, “Star.” I held the topper in the RIGHT hand, then switched it to the LEFT, then back RIGHT again like it was too much responsibility. Someone suggested we put the star LEFT and the angel RIGHT, and everyone shouted, “No!” We tried lifting the star RIGHT up, but it leaned LEFT like it was tired. We tried the angel LEFT up, but it spun RIGHT like it wanted attention. The ladder went RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again as we traded turns. Finally, the tree glittered, the room went quiet, and my little cousin pointed RIGHT and whispered, “Both?” Everyone laughed LEFT and RIGHT at the same time. My dad shrugged LEFT, my mom shrugged RIGHT, and someone said, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your topper prize.”
  4. End the round and let the group pick a new theme.

22. Holiday Shopping Line Adventure

This story is hilarious for adults and teens because it feels painfully real. The LEFT/RIGHT cues come in bursts like a chaotic checkout line.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell the reader to sound mildly dramatic, like they’re narrating a survival story.
  2. Optional: set shopping bags nearby as a prop pile.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    I stepped into the store and immediately regretted it. The line started on the LEFT, wrapped RIGHT around the aisle, and somehow ended LEFT near the holiday socks. I grabbed a gift RIGHT, then realized I needed a different size LEFT, then walked RIGHT back like a confused penguin. Someone bumped my cart LEFT, and I bumped their cart RIGHT, and we did the awkward holiday apology dance. The cashier called, “Next!” from the RIGHT lane, then the LEFT lane, then RIGHT again because the registers kept switching. I checked my list LEFT, checked my phone RIGHT, and checked my patience LEFT again. Finally, I reached the front, and the cashier smiled RIGHT at me and said, “Do you have rewards?” I blinked LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and said, “My reward is leaving.” Everyone laughed. Then a voice announced, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is your checkout prize.”
  4. End the round with a quick groan-laugh and move on to a cozier theme.

23. Christmas Breakfast Buffet Shuffle

This one is cozy and family-friendly, like a bustling kitchen on Christmas morning. The cues feel like passing plates and rushing around the table.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone this round is “buffet style,” so passes may come quickly as the story gets busy.
  2. Optional: place holiday paper plates or napkins nearby for the vibe.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The Christmas breakfast buffet was open, and everyone rushed in from the LEFT like it was a parade. The pancakes were on the RIGHT, the fruit was on the LEFT, and the syrup was somehow RIGHT in the middle of everything. My dad carried plates LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, trying not to spill. My mom poured coffee RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again like a café pro. Someone reached LEFT for cinnamon, someone reached RIGHT for napkins, and someone reached LEFT again for more bacon. We passed plates RIGHT, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, and the table looked like a delicious mess. A kid shouted from the LEFT, “More juice!” and an adult shouted from the RIGHT, “More patience!” Everyone laughed, and then my mom said, “Breakfast bonus—whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours.”
  4. End the round and let people keep the gift they landed with.

24. Christmas Parade on Main Street

This theme is loud, festive, and perfect for big groups who like a little drama. The story feels like floats and confetti and waving everywhere.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell the reader to read like a parade announcer, using big energy on LEFT and RIGHT.
  2. Optional: jingle sleigh bells at the start to set the mood.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    The Christmas parade rolled into town, and the first float turned LEFT at the corner and waved RIGHT at the crowd. Everyone cheered LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again as the marching band passed. A giant snowman float leaned RIGHT, and a reindeer float pranced LEFT like it was showing off. The announcer pointed RIGHT and shouted, “Candy!” then pointed LEFT and shouted, “More candy!” Kids ran LEFT to the curb, then RIGHT to their parents, then LEFT again because they didn’t want to miss anything. The confetti popped RIGHT into the air and drifted LEFT like snow. The biggest float of all—Santa’s sleigh—glided RIGHT down Main Street, then LEFT past the bakery, then RIGHT again past the library. Santa waved LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again, and the whole crowd waved back. “Parade prizes!” the announcer yelled. “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours!”
  4. End the round with a big cheer and move on to the final theme.

25. The North Pole Snow Globe Finale

This one feels magical and makes a great “last round” story because it has a fun final twist. The LEFT/RIGHT cues are steady and satisfying for a big finish.

Supplies

Directions

  1. Tell everyone this is the “finale round,” so keep passing quickly and don’t overthink it.
  2. Optional: place a snow globe in the center and turn on fairy lights for a magical vibe.
  3. Read this story out loud:

    I picked up the snow globe and shook it, and the glitter swirled LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again like a tiny storm. Inside the globe, Santa’s sleigh sat on the RIGHT side of the village, and the workshop sat on the LEFT side with lights glowing. The snow fell RIGHT onto the rooftops, then drifted LEFT across the tiny street. I tilted the globe LEFT, and the snow slid RIGHT like it had a plan. My cousin leaned RIGHT to peek, and my sister leaned LEFT to giggle. Suddenly the globe felt warm, and the room seemed to spin LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again. The jingle of bells sounded RIGHT in my ears, then LEFT, then RIGHT again, and everyone froze like we were in a storybook. The snow settled, and the village looked perfectly still—until a tiny elf inside waved LEFT, then RIGHT, then LEFT again like it knew us. I blinked, and the globe was normal again. “Magic moment,” I whispered, and then said loudly, “Whatever gift you’re holding RIGHT now is yours!”
  4. Ring a jingle bell to officially end the game and let everyone open their gifts if that’s your tradition.

FAQ

How many people do you need for a Left Right game?

You can play with as few as 5 people, but it gets extra funny with 10–25 because the gifts travel farther and end up in unexpected spots. If your group is huge, split into two circles and use two readers with separate stacks of small wrapped gifts.

What kind of gifts work best?

Go for small, easy-to-hold items so passing is smooth and nothing breaks when the story speeds up. I love using a mix of snacks, small games, and funny surprises, all wrapped in holiday wrapping paper so everything looks festive.

How do you keep the game fair?

The easiest rule is “one pass per cue,” no skipping, no double-passing, and no tossing across the circle. Having the reader use a clipboard and read clearly helps everyone follow along.

Can kids play without getting confused?

Yes—do a quick practice round where you say LEFT once and RIGHT once before you start the story. If needed, post a reminder on a dry erase board so kids can glance up and keep up confidently.

How long should one round last?

Most rounds feel best at 1–3 minutes, which keeps the energy high and prevents passing fatigue. If your group is competitive, use a timer to keep rounds consistent.

Conclusion

Left Right stories are one of those Christmas party wins that feel like you planned something big—even though it’s basically just reading and passing gifts. If you prep a basket with small wrapped gifts and printed stories on printer paper, you can pull it out anytime the party needs a boost.

My favorite way to do it is pick a cozy theme early (like cocoa or Christmas Eve), then finish with a big, silly one (like the parade) so the energy ends on a high note. Keeping a jingle bell nearby makes it feel like a real “host move,” and it helps you start and stop rounds cleanly.

If you’re hosting a large group, don’t be afraid to run two circles at once—more people playing means more laughing, and that’s the whole point. And if you want to reuse these every year, clip your favorites onto a clipboard so the stories are always ready to go.

More Christmas Games

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