At some point during my childhood my family started playing bingo for presents and cash on Christmas Eve. (I told you we’re funny Norweigns). The first time my mom wrapped up a cows tooth with a Kermit the Frog toothbrush and called it prize. But she also wrapped up pennies, quarters, dollar bills and the sometimes even a $20. Inspired by those memories at the cabin, here’s a version I’ve whipped up for my mommy friends that you can play too for trashy or real treasures with your family this holiday season.
Here’s what you’ll need to play:
- A bingo set, I have one similar to this Garret Wade one.
- The bingo rules, if playing white elephant style (download them here).
- Numbers for your prizes and lotto. I use Avery return address labels to make it easy.
- An attitude of merriment and jolly.
If you’re playing with family and not wanting to steal prizes follow the directions below otherwise download the ones above.
Family Friendly Instructions
1. Number each prize and then put corresponding numbers in a stocking to be drawn. I call this the lotto.
2. When you get a bingo draw a number from the lotto. Find the prize labeled with that number and win that prize!
Bingo Tips
- Play with one card per person. This way it takes longer to open presents.
- If playing for cash, have enough cash on hand to even the others out so they don’t feel skunked.