65 Fun Family Games to Bring Laughter And Create Bonding

There's nothing quite like getting together with family, and it's even better when you add some extra excitement with some fun family games! With just a few creative ideas, you can heighten the level of excitement and fun at these gatherings, making it a party your relatives won't forget anytime soon. Whether it's a reunion with your aunts and uncles or a weekend getaway with your cousins, including some activities in your schedule will ensure that your family gatherings never feel dull or monotonous. We've compiled a list of 65 games that are bound to entertain and delight everyone in attendance, helping you plan an amazing family bonding experience that'll last a lifetime. So, go ahead, choose a game, and make memories that will be cherished forever!

20 Fun Family Games to Play at Home

Quick and hassle-free is our style! Firstly, make sure you have pens/pencils and paper handy — that's all you need for these fun family games! Next, browse through the options given below and gear up for some side-splitting moments.

1. Word Squares

If you are looking for a fun way to sharpen your creativity, smarts, and skills, then you might want to try playing Word Squares! This game is similar to the dot game but with an added challenge – words! The objective is to create as many squares as you can while using words. It's a perfect game for young readers who are looking for a fun way to enhance their reading abilities. Test yourself by creating as many words as possible without getting blocked!

2. The Sentence Game

Unleash your creativity and have a great laugh by playing the Sentence Game! This is an ideal game for family gatherings or a fun get-together with friends. The game works by writing a statement about someone in the room and then passing it to the next person who will then draw it! The combination of Pictionary and Telephone makes it so much fun and always results in hilarious drawings. Play it to enhance your creativity and entertain your loved ones.

3. Scattergories

Scattergories has always been a classic favorite among families and friends, and now, you can create a homemade version of this fantastic game! This game includes exciting printables and ideas that are sure to keep everyone entertained. Kids love the challenge of thinking of five-letter words and categories to use. It's a great way to have some quality family time while exercising your thinking skills!

4. Who Am I?

If you are in need of last-minute family games to play, then try the "Who Am I?" game! It's an easy and quick game that anyone can play. Each person has 20 questions to guess who they are, and it's always so much fun when you use Disney characters or the names of your extended family. It's a game that never gets old and guarantees to bring loads of laughs!

5. The Name Game

Get your creativity on and come up with the name of someone — it could be a celebrity, someone you know, or a fictional character. Keep it a secret and write it down. Next, put all the names in a bowl or hat and draw them out one by one. The fun begins when players start giving clues about the person they drew, while others try to guess who it is. Family games like this one are a great way to show off your acting skills while having fun with your loved ones.

6. Bingo

Who says you need to leave the house to have fun? Play Bingo with your family, using just paper and pens or pencils. Create your own Bingo cards by listing different objects, landmarks, or items you might see on a family walk or a grocery shopping trip. Make sure you get a prize for the winner, or better yet, let the winner choose what to do for the evening!

As per our contributor, Meghan Englert who is a licensed therapist and former play therapist turned parenting coach, playing games indoors as a family strengthens bonds tremendously. She says, ”Prioritizing 5-10 minutes of focused quality play time with as much eye contact as possible will increase your bond. In addition, incorporating a little bit of playfulness with daily routines will make everything go smoother.”

7. Take a Hint

This is a game for two teams of four players, and is perfect for family game night. Players must give hints to help their team guess a particular word, but they only have one chance to get it right! It's a great game to practice communication and teamwork skills while having loads of fun.

8. How Do You Doo?

Get ready to rock the house with How Do You Doo? It's a game similar to Name That Tune, but with a twist! Players must try to get their team to guess the song title while singing the word "doo" instead of the actual lyrics. It's a fun and silly game that will bring everyone closer while providing endless entertainment. So, get singing and show off your musical talent to your family!

9. Movie ID

Movie ID is the perfect game if you are looking for a new addition to your list of family games! It's so addictive that you'll find yourself playing it more than once. It's like Catchphrase but with a twist. Teams are bidding against each other to see who can get their team to guess with the least number of words. As a bonus, add some prizes for the winners to make it more exciting.

10. Hang Man

Hang Man is a classic game to play with your family. Whether you're on a road trip or just at home, it's an enjoyable game that never gets old. Make it more fun by adding silly tasks or challenges if you guess the wrong letter. You won't even notice the time passing by as you're laughing and having a blast with your loved ones.

11. 4 Papers

Want a game that tests your knowledge and teamwork? Try 4 Papers! First, pick a category and jot down anything that falls under it on individual slips of paper. Once that's done, form two teams and set the clock for one minute. During each round, players take turns trying to convey as many of their team's papers as they can without using the actual words written on them. You're allowed one pass, but be careful — that means the paper goes back into the pile! Once all the papers are exhausted, tally up the correct guesses. The team with the highest score takes the victory!

12. Reverse Charades

If you're not a fan of the spotlight but love group games, Reverse Charades is perfect for you! Write down things to act out on slips of paper, then split into teams. You act as a group, and one person guesses the answer. Determine how many points you need to win, and if your teammate gets the guesses right before the timer runs out, you get a point! Capture the hilarious moments by having the camera ready.

13. What If?

Are you tired of the same old family games that involve staring at a screen all day? Try out “What If?” — a game that is not only hilarious but also promotes creative writing skills, especially for young kids. Each player starts by writing a “what if” scenario, followed by another player folding the paper over and writing a “then” statement. The outcome is a silly and unpredictable story that is sure to keep you laughing.

14. Who Is Telling the Truth?

For a more personal touch, play “Who is Telling the Truth?” This game involves players asking each other silly “what if” questions, and then providing mismatched responses. It’s an excellent icebreaker game, allowing players to get to know each other better, and have fun doing so. The mismatched responses lead to an unpredictable story, and you might end up knowing a lot more about your friends and family than you expected.

15. Mafia

Mafia is one of the most thrilling family games that will keep you on your toes, constantly wondering who to trust. Players must determine the members of the mafia while avoiding being murdered themselves. So, put on your detective hat and find the culprit before it's too late.

16. Tech-Free Games

Put your phones aside, grab some paper and pen, and enjoy some tech-free family games. These games range from drawing and writing prompts to paper-folding activities. The best part about these games is that they can be used repeatedly, providing endless hours of entertainment. It's a perfect way to spend time with family and friends and escape the digital world for a while.

17. Movie Quotes Game

It's no secret that guessing games can be a blast. So why not level up your entertainment by designing your own "Guess The Movie" game? With some solid prep and online assistance, you can create a truly unforgettable experience. For added excitement, set your sights on a specific movie genre such as comedy, action, or beloved Disney classics.

18. Pictionary

Pictionary is another fun family game that guarantees endless chuckles for the whole family. Divide your family into teams and let the fun begin as they attempt to decipher their teammate's drawings on the board. The objective of the game is to decipher the message the "picturist" is trying to convey through their drawings. So, put on your thinking caps and let the guessing game begin!

19. Don’t Eat Pete

This game is loads of fun for people of all ages, and it's a great way to indulge in some sweet treats while spending time with loved ones. To start, put one piece of candy in each square on the grid. Send one person out of the room and choose one candy to be "Pete." When the person returns to the room, their job is to pick one candy piece at a time. If the candy is not "Pete," they can eat it! However, if the candy is "Pete," everyone needs to yell "DON'T EAT PETE!" and that player’s turn is over.

20. Hallway Laser Maze

Transform your dull hallway into an adventurous laser maze by grabbing a roll of painter's tape or streamers lying around in your garage. Delight in watching your family members strategize their way through the maze without disentangling the pattern. It's an exceptional way to engage and occupy your children!

20 Unique Family Games That Don’t Require Any Materials

Experience a nostalgic blast from the past with these delightful family games that will transport you to your youthful college days or even your cherished elementary years. No need to fret about your age because these timeless games to play with family are suitable for all ages!

1. Two Truths And a Lie

 

This is a simple game that involves stating three things about yourself, but only two are true. Next, the other players have to guess which one is the lie. It’s an opportunity to learn more about each other and have some laughs along the way. 

2. The Greatest Game in the Universe

For those looking for some challenging family games, we have “The Greatest Game in the Universe”. The game involves choosing a person, weapon, thing, and place. It’s a game of acting and guessing that becomes more hilarious with each reenactment. We guarantee you’ll be rolling on the floor by the end of it.

3. Hot Lava

As children, we were always fascinated by the idea of “Hot Lava.” It was a game that we played endlessly with our siblings and friends. But now, we’ve grown up, and it’s time to revisit this childhood game as a family. The rules are simple – don’t touch the floor! For added fun, you could even build a pillow or blanket fort.

4. Monsters in the Dark

Another game we used to play as kids was “Monsters in the Dark”. It was essentially hide-and-seek played in the dark. Whenever the seeker got close, the hider would jump up and scare them! Although it was terrifying, we always ended up laughing. As adults, you can recreate those memories with your own families. And, once you’ve exhausted yourself with the game, you could entertain yourself by doing shadow puppets.

5. Sardines

College memories are some of the most cherished and the game of Sardines was one that we played all the time. It’s a twist on hide and seek where one person hides and the rest of the group has to find them, but once you do, you hide with them until the last person finds the group. It’s simple, yet always a laugh. And the best part? You don't need anything but yourselves to play.

6. 4 on the Couch

One of the family games which is perfect for reunions is 4 on the Couch. The game requires you to get four people from your team onto a couch but in a wild and crazy way! The goal might seem simple but can be quite challenging, making for lots of laughter. 

7. The Bomber

The Bomber is a fun game where you have to get the 'bomber' and the 'president' in the same room before the game ends. It’s an intense game as the opposing team tries to keep them apart. This game can be a bit tricky but it’s still hilarious to watch your family strategize to win. 

8. Signs

If you are looking for a quieter game, Signs is perfect. The objective is to pass secret hand signs to each other without getting caught. This game is a great way to test your sneaking skills while having a great time. The person who gets caught is the one who has to be 'it'.

9. Psychiatrist

“Psychiatrist” is another fun game to try with a group. It's a guessing game that's sure to get everyone laughing. One person is chosen to be the doctor and leaves the room while the rest of the players choose an "illness." When the doctor returns, they must ask yes or no questions to determine what the illness is. 

10. Hide And Seek

Hide and Seek is among some of the classic family games that's been played for generations. One person is "it" and counts while the other players hide. The "it" person then searches for the others, trying to find them all before they make it back to base. Once found, the hiders can either be out or become another "it" person and help find the remaining players.

11. Ghost in the Graveyard

If you're looking for fun family games to play, then Ghost in the Graveyard is a must-try. The game is a mashup of hide-and-seek with a spooky twist. One person is chosen as the ghost, and they hide while everyone else searches for them. If you spot the ghost, you must quietly make your way back to the "base" without getting caught. If the ghost catches you, then you become the next ghost, and the game continues.

12. The Animal Game

Family games like this one are sure to get everyone laughing and making silly noises. One person stands in the middle of a circle with their eyes closed while everyone else changes places. The person in the middle then points at someone and gives them a command to make an animal noise. The person being pointed at must then make the noise, while the person in the middle tries to guess who made it. 

13. Would You Rather

This game can be played in different ways, but assigning different sides of the room as options 1 and 2 can make it more exciting. All you have to do is ask a question starting with "Would you rather," and everyone goes to the side of the room that corresponds with their answer.

14. Don’t Forget the Lyrics

If you love music and fun, you'll enjoy playing "Don't Forget the Lyrics." This game involves players trying to complete song lyrics, sometimes in an unusual way. The result is a lot of laughter and a fun-filled family game night. And the best part is, you don't need any supplies other than access to YouTube.

15. How’s Yours?

This game involves guessing an object that everyone has in common, but with a hilarious twist. The guessing becomes increasingly difficult and enjoyable with each round. You're sure to have a great time with this one!

16. Supermarket Sweep

Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery without having to travel too far from home. That's where "Supermarket Sweep" comes in handy. This game requires you to head to a local market armed with instructions and printables. You'll be able to put your shopping skills to the test while also having some fun with friends and family. Give it a try!

17. Assassin

This game is a hit with kids and adults alike as they try to catch the winking assassin before it's too late. Get ready for some intense staring as everyone tries to figure out who's hiding something behind those sneaky winks. 

18. Secret Dancer

Looking for a way to get the whole family moving? Try Secret Dancer! This game is sure to have everyone laughing as they try to figure out who the secret dancer is. Not only is it a great way to spend time together, but it also provides a fun workout on those days when you're stuck indoors.

19. Never Have I Ever

Never Have I Ever involves writing fun questions about embarrassing and funny situations that some family members may have experienced. Write down the questions on small pieces of paper and put them inside a bowl. Have your family gather around and each take turns drawing a piece of paper from the bowl. Whoever has done what the paper says takes a shot. With people getting drunk, hilarious stories are bound to come up, creating lasting memories for everyone involved. 

20. Telephone

Telephones aren't only meant for kids. This is one of the family games that can pack a serious punch and leave adults reeling too. If you need a reminder, Telephone is the classic game where someone whispers a phrase into the ear of the person next to them, and that phrase gets passed on until it reaches the final person. The ultimate challenge is to keep the original phrase intact, but that's easier said than done. Expect some unexpected twists and turns along the way!

20 Best Outdoor Family Games to Enjoy

Let loose and embrace your playful side! Prepare to have a blast with these exciting family games that will tickle your funny bone until it aches with glee. You surely must continue reading to unveil the endless fun!

1. The Flour Game

The Flour Game is an unexpectedly entertaining game to play with family that will leave everyone laughing. To play, you simply take a cup, pack it with flour, and flip it onto a plate to create a cup-shaped structure. Then, you carefully balance a small candy on top of the flour cup. One by one, each player takes a turn using a butter knife to slice off some of the flour without letting the candy fall. If someone knocks off the candy, they have to retrieve it using only their mouth! It’s a game that requires a steady hand and quick reflexes.

2. Selfie Hot Potato

Selfie Hot Potato is a modern twist on the classic game of Hot Potato. In this version, you pass around a camera that is set on a timer and pointed at your face. When the camera flashes, the person holding the camera must take a silly selfie. Additionally, they must perform a challenge or punishment as decided by the group. This game is sure to result in hilarious photos and plenty of laughs.

3. Sticky Face

If you’re a fan of sticky notes, then Sticky Face is the game for you. This game involves racing to stick as many sticky notes on your face as possible in a set amount of time. It’s a fun and silly activity that is perfect for family games. Who knew sticky notes could be so entertaining?

4. The Cereal Box Game

Another game that will test your skills is The Cereal Box Game. All you need is a cereal box or a brown paper bag that gradually gets smaller as the game progresses. The challenge is to pick it up using only your mouth and feet! It may seem easy at first, but as the size of the box decreases, it becomes increasingly difficult to reach.

5. Cotton Ball Glitz

This crazy game involves players coating their noses with lotion and then using their noses to see how many cotton balls they can get out of a bowl in just one minute. The results are sure to be pure hilarity.

6. Halt

For some outdoor family games to get everyone moving, try Halt. To play, roll up a dish towel and tape it together. Have players stand in a circle around the towel, but don't let them touch it yet. One leader calls out another player's name, and that player must run to the towel while everyone else scatters. Once they have the towel, they yell "Halt!" and have three chances to throw the towel in hopes of hitting another player. If no one gets hit, the person with the towel is out and gets to choose the next thrower.

7. Mousetrap

In this game, each player starts with a pile of beans and a mouse, which is simply a spool tied to a length of string. Players place their mice in a circle covered by a pot lid, and the trapper rolls two dice to try and catch the mice. If they fail to catch any mice, they owe the other players one of their beans. If they do catch a mouse, however, they get one of that mouse's beans.

8. Bubble Game Race

Whether you're hosting a family game night or a party with friends, the Bubble Game Race is sure to be a hit. The goal of this game is to eat your way through a pile of whipped cream to find a piece of gum, but there's a catch - no hands allowed! Once you find the gum, celebrate by showing off your bubble gum-blowing skills.

9. Spoons

The goal of this game is simple: be the first to collect a certain number of spoons, but there’s a catch! There’s always one less spoon than the number of players, which means you’ll have to move quickly and snag a spoon before your opponent does. Get ready for a fast-paced game that will have everyone on their toes!

10. Iron Chef

Get creative and challenge your family members to whip up something tasty using ingredients you have on hand, including those leftovers lurking in the back of the fridge. It’s a great way to bring out your inner chef, while also turning an ordinary meal into a fun and exciting competition. Who will be crowned the Iron Chef champion?

11. Kick the Can

It’s time to bring back the classic childhood game of Kick the Can and create new memories with your family. It’s a game that’s simple yet thrilling, as players try to kick a can without getting caught by the person who is “it”. It’s a great way to get everyone outside and active, while also reliving the nostalgia of childhood games. 

12. Liars Dice

This game, popularized by Captain Jack Sparrow and Davy Jones, requires players to guess the number of dice of a certain value in play, without being able to see all the dice at once. Each player rolls their dice and hides them under a cup, then makes a bid based on how many of a certain number they think is in play. The next player can then either raise the bid or challenge the previous player’s bid. The game continues until one player challenges and loses, revealing the dice to see who was correct.

13. Flashlight Tag

Looking for fun family games to play with your family in the dark? Consider playing Flashlight Tag! The rules are simple: one person is designated as “It” and is given a flashlight. Meanwhile, everyone else starts a dance party. The goal for the flashlight-holder is to catch a moving dancer with the beam of light. Once a dancer is caught, they must freeze in place. If a dancer is still moving in the light, they become the next “It”. 

14. Guess What’s in the Bag

Another perfect game for family gatherings is Guess What’s in the Bag. For this game, you’ll need a large bag and a variety of differently-shaped kitchen items. Place the items inside the bag, making sure that no one can see what’s inside. Participants then stick their hands inside and try to guess what the objects are, solely based on touch. 

15. Crazy Face

To play this game, divide people into teams and choose one person from each team to cover their face in shaving cream. Then, set a timer for one minute and have the other team members throw cheese balls at the cream-covered face. The goal is to get as many cheese balls to stick as possible. At the end of the minute, count the number of cheese balls stuck to each face, and the team with the most wins. It may be messy, but Crazy Face is a surefire way to create lasting memories with your family.

16. Outdoor Giant Jenga

Imagine the thrill of participating in an exciting match of outdoor Jenga, with your entire family! You can easily make a giant Jenga game with a few DIY skills if you don't wish to buy one. Start by constructing the tower using step-by-step instructions, paying close attention to every detail. Next, take turns removing a block from any level of the tower and place it on top, to finish your turn. Finally, the game concludes when the tower falls apart. Get creative, bring out your crafty side, and let the epic Jenga battles begin!

17. Tug Of War

Tug of War is a timeless game that provides both a thrilling and excruciating experience. To play, simply take two ends of a rope and have opponents tug on the other end. To make things even more fun, create a soapy water pool and place it between the two teams. Divide your family members into two even teams and have them settle on either end of the rope. Start the game with a whistle and watch as both teams battle it out to see who can tug the other over. The ultimate victor is whoever can move their opponents the farthest or tugs the hardest.

18. Jump Rope

A fantastic outdoor pastime for all ages is hosting a jump rope tournament that brings children and adults together. During the competition, you can challenge participants with some tricky double Dutch games or lively rhymes. Two players will swing the rope while others jump their best without a single mess-up!

19. Minute to Win It

Minute to Win is one of the most exciting family games that combine fun challenges with a timer. In under a minute, players race to complete tasks like stacking cups, moving cookies, or bouncing ping pong balls into cups. It's a thrilling and competitive way to spend time with loved ones and make memories.

20. Hula Hoop Contest

Challenge your loved ones to a hoop-off competition and see who can keep their hoop spinning the longest. Set a timer and track the time until the hoop falls. The reigning champion is the family member who keeps their hula hoop up the longest. 

5 Famous Board Games for Family Night

Board games are a perfect way to spend the family night. They are a fun and interactive way to connect and bond with your loved ones. Plus, they provide hours of entertainment and laughter for all ages. Check out these fun board games to play with your family:

1. Monopoly 

Monopoly is a game that can provide a lot more than just entertainment. It is a highly strategic and competitive game that involves property ownership, taxation, negotiation, and other financial concepts. This game has been creating real estate titans since 1935, and it continues to be one of the most beloved family games even today.

2. Scrabble

This is a popular game with endless possibilities and can enhance one's creativity. Whether you're a kid or an adult, this game can be enjoyed by everyone and is an excellent way to improve one's vocabulary and language skills.

3. The Game of Life

You probably remember playing The Game Of Life as a child. So, why not relive those memories and play the game with your family again? This game allows you to dream about all the possibilities and responsibilities of being a grown-up, keeping you hooked from start to finish.

4. Chess

If you are a chess lover, this classic game is a must-play during family gatherings. It is one of the most ancient and strategic games that can provide endless hours of entertainment while improving one's strategic and critical thinking skills.

5. Ludo

Ludo is an all-time favorite board game that is perfect for spending quality time with your family. It can be played during lazy afternoons or breezy evenings while enjoying snacks and tea. Family members sitting in a circle and enjoying this game together is a perfect scenario that will leave everyone feeling entertained and connected.

Conclusion 

Transform your weekends by indulging in the joy of playing entertaining family games with your loved ones. A beautiful and perfect way to enhance the bond and trust among yourselves is to make game nights an integral part of your family traditions. We have handpicked some unique, traditional, and innovative family games that can provide your family with unforgettable experiences. These games not only ensure tons of laughter but also impart valuable life skills and knowledge to your little ones. Don't wait, choose a game that catches your attention and introduce it to your family during your next downtime session together.

Contributor: Meghan Englert, Licensed Therapist and Parenting Clini-Coach, Meghan Englert LLC.

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