How to Play Christmas Picture Bingo (Rules & Tips)

To play Christmas picture bingo, give each player a different bingo card, have a caller draw and show one Christmas picture at a time, and let players mark that picture if it is on their card. The first player to complete the agreed pattern, such as a full row, shouts “Bingo!” and wins the round. Because it uses pictures instead of words or numbers, even pre-readers can play.

What you need

Printed bingo cards, one per player, each with a different arrangement
A caller sheet or calling cards
Markers: candy, buttons, mini marshmallows or a dot marker
Small prizes (optional but very motivating)

How to set up

Print the cards on card stock if you want to reuse them, or on regular paper for a one-time game.
Hand out one card and a handful of markers to each player.
Choose a caller. For classrooms the teacher calls; at family parties the youngest reader can take a turn.
Agree on the winning pattern before you start.

How to play

The caller picks a picture at random and shows or names it, for example “Gingerbread man!”
Everyone who has that picture covers it.
The caller keeps track of called pictures so winners can be checked.
The first player to complete the pattern shouts “Bingo!” The caller checks the card, and a new round begins.

Winning patterns to try

Classic line: any full row, column or diagonal.
Four corners: fast and great for little ones.
Letter X or T: a bit longer, good for older kids.
Blackout: cover the whole card for the final round.

Tips for big groups and classrooms

Use a set with enough unique cards for every player so you do not get several winners at once. Our Christmas Picture Bingo includes 30 different cards.
Play quick rounds with simple patterns first, then finish with blackout.
Let early winners become callers so they stay involved.

Prize ideas

Candy canes, stickers, mini chocolate bars, hot cocoa packets, a homework pass for students, or first pick of the cookie plate. Printable stickers make a cheap and cheerful prize. Print a sheet and cut it into strips.

Want more holiday ideas? Browse our holiday and party printables.