Guess the Gift by Sound: Christmas Party Game

Guess the Gift by Sound is a game where you shake wrapped boxes and listen carefully to guess what is hiding inside. It uses things you already have at home.

How to Set Up

1. Pick 10 to 15 items from the list in the next section.
2. Put one item in each box. Close the lid.
3. Wrap each box in paper and tape it. Put a number on each.
4. Keep a private list of what is in each numbered box.
5. Place the boxes on a table.
6. Give each player a sheet of paper and a pencil.

How to Play

1. Everyone stands or sits around the table.
2. Each player takes a box, shakes it, tilts it and listens for 20 seconds.
3. Players write the box number and their guess on their paper.
4. Pass the box to the next player, or put it back and pick another.
5. Keep going until every player has tried all boxes.
6. The host reads the list of real items.
7. Players check their guesses.

Questions and Answers

Good item ideas, each with a sound.

1. A marble, which rolls with a click.
2. A spoon, which slides with a clink.
3. Dry rice, which hisses when shaken.
4. A jingle bell, which rings.
5. A handful of coins, which clatter.
6. A pencil, which taps.
7. A candy bar, which thumps softly.
8. A paper clip, which rattles lightly.
9. A small toy car, which rolls and bumps.
10. A cookie cutter, which clinks.
11. A pine cone, which scratches.
12. A walnut, which knocks.
13. Cotton balls, which make no sound at all.
14. A tube of lip balm, which rolls.
15. A key, which jingles.
16. Dried beans, which rattle.
17. A tennis ball, which thuds.
18. A small ornament, which shifts.
19. A deck of cards, which slides.
20. A pair of dice, which clatter.

Scoring and Winning

One point for each correct guess. Accept close answers, such as “money” for “coins.” The player with the most points wins.

Tips for a Fun Game

• Pack items so they move freely, using tissue paper only if needed.
• Include one silent box to trick players.
• Do not allow opening or squeezing the box.
• Wrap each box so players cannot guess from the shape.

Variations

• Little kids: Use 5 boxes with big sounds, such as bells and rice.
• Team round: Work in pairs and agree on one guess.
• Smell and touch: Put soft items in a sock and let players feel through the cloth.