Obviously the turkey is the centerpiece of almost every holiday meal. However, I always feel like the real fun begins once the dishes are cleared. From friendly card games to video game tournaments, from classic family games to puzzles or Christmas light gazing, families build traditions of fun each year. If you’re struggling to think of ways to keep your family entertained during Thanksgiving and Christmas break, I’d love to suggest a few of our family’s favorites and how you can save money playing games and entertaining.
Check for Toy and Game Coupons
If you’re purchasing a new game or puzzle for the holiday season, be sure to check your favorite store’s coupon app. Many offer a toy and game coupon at this time of the year. I quickly scanned and found a general 20% off toys and games coupon on Kroger’s app (when you spend $50 or more). Meijer and Target also offer this type of coupon on the regular during this time of the year, too. You may also be able to find a specific game coupon that could potentially stack with that type of offer as well. ALWAYS check the app before you head to the store. Kohl’s coupons and Kohl’s cash are another great way to save money on games, too!
Check Amazon Best Sellers
Looking for a great deal on games? So are most people on Amazon. One of the great ways to find both what’s popular and what’s selling at a decent price is to check the Board Game Best Sellers. Searching Featured Deals for Games is another great place to check for steep discounts, too. And last but not least, I always like to check games that are sold for $10 or less on Amazon, too. Using those sorting tools and bookmarking the links is a great way to check back throughout the holiday season to get the best deals on games.
Go Vintage
I have to admit that we have an entire closet filled to the brim with games. Maybe this year a year to crack out one you already own rather than buying anything at all. Find a childhood fav to share for the first time. Go with a game everyone knows and loves. Now is the time to pull things out and remember what your family has forgotten you own.
Host a Game and Puzzle Swap or Check the Library
If you’re looking for a new game or challenging puzzle for your family to try, consider a swap. Post on your social media platforms and ask if anyone has a game or puzzle to borrow. Local libraries are also a fantastic place to look or a puzzle or game to check out. Your local library has so much more than books! Ours even has baking kits and crafting tools.
A Few of My Favorite Games
If you’re looking for recommendations, here are a few tried and true games. Most can be played by a range of players and in a fairly quick manner.
- Spot It – With a range of character choices and the ability to play with 2-8 players, this one is fantastic for ages 6 and up. Plus, it comes in around $10. We love that you can play multiple games with one deck of cards.
- Phase 10 – I grew up on this game with extended family and we still play. And now you can score a 40th Anniversary edition.
- Ticket to Ride – I just learned how to play this one and I love it! If you haven’t tried it yet, see if you can borrow a version from a friend to give it a try. This one can last a little longer, so look at the Fast City Stand Alone games if you’re looking for a shorter version.
I’d love to hear which games you and your family love to play and how you save money when it comes to purchasing them. Leave a comment with your best strategy.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
