Looking for a fun and cozy way to bring the family together during the holidays? A holiday-themed word puzzle night might be just the thing. It’s a simple and low-stress way to laugh, challenge your brains a bit, and enjoy each other’s company around the table — no screens needed! Whether it's Christmas, Hanukkah, or just chilly weather and hot cocoa season, word puzzles are easy to fit into any celebration.
You can even take a bit of inspiration from games like nyt connections, where the goal is to find groups of related words. Create your own version using holiday themes like "winter items," "holiday foods," or "songs you hear at this time of year." Write each word on a small card, mix them up, and have your family try to sort them into the correct groups.
Another fun idea? Holiday word scrambles! Write down a list of seasonal words (think “mistletoe,” “snowflake,” or “dreidel”) and mix up the letters. See who can unscramble them the fastest. If you have younger kids playing, start with easier words and maybe give them hints to help.
Try a Christmas crossword puzzle where all the clues are holiday related. You can make your own online or find printable versions. You could even encourage your kids to come up with one themselves — it’s a great way to keep their minds active during school breaks!
Don’t forget about word searches with seasonal twists. Choose a holiday song, write down a list of words from the lyrics, and then create your own grid. Everyone loves the satisfaction of circling a hidden word.
And finally, there's the old favorite — hangman. Use holiday-themed phrases like “milk and cookies,” “silent night,” or “snowball fight” and let everyone have their turn guessing letters. To keep things friendly, maybe swap out the hangman for a snowman drawing and add a piece each time they guess wrong!
Whichever games you choose, keep it light and fun. Maybe add some hot chocolate, holiday music in the background, and cozy blankets. It’s all about enjoying time together and making some great memories. With just a few simple supplies — paper, pens, and a warm spirit — game night might just become your favorite holiday tradition.