When the chilly December evenings roll in and the days get shorter, there’s nothing I love more than gathering around the table with my family for a cozy game night. There’s something so special about unplugging from the digital world, sharing laughs, and enjoying each other’s company over a good board game. Over the years, we’ve discovered a handful of favorites that never fail to bring fun, friendly competition, and memorable moments. Here are my top picks:
- Catan
This one is a classic in our house. Catan is all about strategy, trading, and building settlements, making it a perfect mix of fun and thought-provoking gameplay. I love that it encourages negotiation between players, which can get hilariously intense when someone desperately needs a specific resource. It’s ideal for older kids and adults, and no two games ever play out the same, which keeps it fresh every time.
- Ticket to Ride
Building train routes across the map is oddly satisfying in Ticket to Ride. The game is simple enough to learn quickly but still keeps everyone engaged with its strategic challenges. My kids love competing to complete their routes, and there’s always that moment of suspense when two players are racing to claim the same path. Whether we’re traveling across the U.S. or Europe (depending on the version we’re playing), it’s always a hit.
- Uno
Okay, technically not a board game, but this card game is a forever favorite. It’s fast-paced, easy to pick up, and filled with twists and turns that keep everyone on their toes. Plus, it’s portable, so we often take it with us during holiday visits with extended family. There’s nothing like a well-timed “Draw Four” card to stir up some playful rivalry.
- Scrabble
For quieter, more laid-back evenings, Scrabble is our go-to. It’s a great way to flex your brain muscles while trying to outscore each other with creative (and sometimes questionable) word choices. I love how it sparks conversations about language and often leads to debates over whether “qi” or “za” is a real word. Bonus: it’s secretly educational for the kids.
- Codenames
This one is perfect for larger groups and is all about teamwork. In Codenames, players try to guess the right words based on one-word clues given by their teammate. It’s a mix of deduction, creativity, and trust in your partner’s thinking process. The laughs we’ve shared when someone misinterprets a clue have made some of our best game night memories.
- Candy Land (for the little ones)
When my kids were younger, Candy Land was a staple. It’s simple, colorful, and perfect for toddlers just learning the concept of taking turns. Even though we’ve outgrown it now, it still holds a special place in my heart as one of the first games we ever played as a family.
Game nights have become a cherished tradition in our home. Not only do they bring us closer together, but they also remind me how important it is to slow down and enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether it’s a strategic game of Catan or a quick round of Uno, these moments are what make the holiday season truly magical for us. If you haven’t yet, I highly recommend starting a family game night tradition—it’s worth every second.
After a day of holiday activities, my kids and I love gathering for game nights. It’s a simple yet meaningful way I bond with my family, and December feels like the perfect time for some friendly competition.
