If you’re looking for a Christmas party game that’s fun, fast, and doesn’t make everyone buy dumb gifts they don’t want (hi, White Elephant 👀)… welcome to my personal favorite: Pass the Present — Dice Edition.
A few years ago, my husband and I were getting ready to host our annual Christmas Eve party. I wanted something fun that didn’t require everyone to spend money on silly gifts, didn’t add stress, and worked for a big mix of ages. I landed on this dice-style Pass the Present game — and you guys… it was a HUGE hit.
It’s quick to set up, easy to play, and wildly entertaining. It works for literally any holiday gathering — Friendsmas, family parties, classroom celebration, girls’ night, office parties, you name it.
And because I’m me (and I love giving away free stuff) I made free printable dice instruction cards you can use for your party. Alright, let’s get into all the details!
What Is Pass the Present (Dice Version)?
Pass the Present (the dice version) is a lively, fast-paced gift exchange game where:
- Everyone starts with a wrapped gift.
- Players take turns rolling a die.
- The die decides what happens next — unwrap, trade, pass, swap, steal… chaos.
- After everyone has rolled at least once (or more!), the game ends.
- Whatever gift you’re holding at the end = yours.
No endless unwrapping.
No complicated rules.
No one sits out.
No pre-planning stress.
This is the perfect Christmas party game for mixed ages and bigger groups.
How to Play Pass the Present (Dice Edition)
Step 1: Everyone Starts with a Small Gift
Keep it simple — $5–$15 gift, a small treat, or even DIY items. (See ideas below!)
Step 2: Sit in a Circle
Everyone should be able to see each other for maximum drama.
Step 3: Take Turns Rolling the Die
Choose someone to start. Their roll determines the action for the entire group:
- Roll a 1 → Unwrap your current gift OR tell someone else to unwrap theirs
- Roll a 2 → Trade gifts with the person to your right
- Roll a 3 → Everyone passes their gift to the right
- Roll a 4 → Trade gifts with the person to your left
- Roll a 5 → Everyone passes their gift to the left
- Roll a 6 → Steal any gift from anyone
This is where the chaos begins. This is also where the fun begins.
Step 4: Keep Rolling!
- For big groups (10+), have everyone roll at least once.
- For small groups, go two or three rounds to maximize the fun and gift-stealing energy.
Step 5: Final Gifts = Final Keepers
Whatever gift you’re holding at the end of the last round is yours!
Supplies You’ll Need:
- One small gift per person (keep scrolling for ideas!)
- Gift bags (recommended over wrapping to keep things easy!)
- A single die (I LOVE this oversized, soft red dice for extra festive flair)
- My free printable instruction card
Download your Free Printable Pass the Present Game Instruction Card
Gift Ideas for Pass the Present (All Ages!)
I recommended keeping your gifts to $10 and under (to keep it affordable and FUN). Here are ideas for every crowd (including some really odd-ball ideas to throw in there for added laughs).
Adult-Friendly Gift Ideas
- Festive drinkware (this color-changing glass tumbler is SO COOL!)
- Bath bombs (these single high-end bath bombs are perfect!)
- Holiday candles – Make your own DIY Crystal Jar Candles!
- Lotto tickets (pick up a bunch of the fun holiday-themed ones)
Kid-Friendly Gift Ideas
- Stickers (These make-a-face holiday stickers are SO FUN!)
- Playdough (This 10-pack can be split into multiple bags!)
Gift Ideas for a Mixed Crowd
- Holiday candy (mix and match options!)
- Gift cards ($10 Amazon gift cards are great for everyone!)
More Christmas Games & Party Ideas You’ll Love
Before you go, here’s a few additional Christmas party ideas to consider to make your celebration one to remember!
- Explore more fun Christmas party entertainment ideas for every age!
- Make an Easy DIY Christmas Garland. Using Dollar Tree tablecloths, you can deck your halls for under $5!
- Explore affordable DIY Christmas gift ideas you can make in an afternoon!
Pass the Present Game FAQ
No — this is the dice version where everyone starts with a gift and rolls to trade, pass, or steal.
1–2 rounds for large groups, 2–3 rounds for small groups.
4–20+ players — it scales beautifully.
Yes! Just choose gifts appropriate for your crowd. Candy is always a winner!
Printable Pass the Present Game Download
If you use my printable or play this game at your holiday party, tag me @savvyswarey — nothing makes me happier than watching adorable gifts fly across the room while Aunt Linda steals from a child. 😂
Happy planning, and warmest holidays!
xo,
Kelsey