Free Printable Left Right Christmas Games – Looking for a simple, laughter-filled way to exchange gifts this holiday season? Free printable left right Christmas games turn ordinary gift swaps into high-energy fun for families, offices, classrooms, and friends across the USA.
These games use a short Christmas story packed with the words “left” and “right.” Players pass wrapped gifts in the direction called out. When the story ends, everyone keeps whatever gift they are holding. No complicated rules, no stealing drama—just quick passes and plenty of giggles.
What Is a Left Right Christmas Game?
A left right Christmas game (sometimes called a left-right gift exchange or pass-the-present story) is a storytelling gift exchange. One person reads a festive story out loud. Every time the words “left” or “right” appear, players pass their gift in that direction. Some versions also include “across” for extra chaos.
It works for any group size of four or more and suits both kids and adults. The game needs almost no setup beyond printing a story and gathering wrapped gifts.
Free Printable Left Right Christmas Games
How to Play the Left Right Christmas Game?
Follow these easy steps for a smooth game at your next holiday gathering:
- Ask each player to bring one wrapped gift (set a price limit if desired, such as $10–$25).
- Have everyone sit or stand in a circle holding a gift.
- Choose one person to read the printable story clearly and slowly.
- Whenever the reader says “left,” pass the gift to the person on your left. When they say “right,” pass it to the right. Pass quickly if the words come back-to-back.
- When the story finishes, the gift in your hands is yours to open and keep.
Pro tip: Emphasize the direction words so everyone can hear them clearly. For larger groups, split into two smaller circles.
Where to Get Free Printable Left Right Christmas Games?
Here are trusted sources offering genuine free printable left right Christmas games in easy-to-print PDF format (most designed for standard US Letter paper). All links open in a new tab.
One excellent option with multiple original stories featuring left, right, and across is available at Printables for Life. The festive designs work well for family or classroom use.
A classic adaptation of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” filled with left and right cues can be downloaded from Aubree Originals. It is popular for white elephant and office parties.
For both a fun family story and a nativity-themed version, visit The Savvy Sparrow. These free printables suit secular and faith-based gatherings.
Two original options—one humorous gift-exchange poem and one nativity story—are offered as free downloads on Leap of Faith Crafting.
Always print at 100% scale for best results. Cardstock makes the sheets sturdier for repeated holiday use.
Tips for a Successful Game
Choose gender-neutral or age-appropriate gifts so everyone ends up happy. Gift cards, cozy socks, holiday treats, or small practical items work especially well for mixed groups.
Practice reading the story once beforehand so the pace feels natural. Keep spare gifts on hand for last-minute guests. For classrooms or large offices, multiple shorter stories allow extra rounds.
These free printable left right Christmas games require no special equipment and create shared memories without the stress of traditional white elephant steals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can play?
Any number from about 4 upward. Larger groups can form multiple circles.
Do I need one gift per person?
Yes for a full exchange. You can also pass a single special prize if preferred.
Are the printables really free?
Yes. The sources linked above provide free personal-use PDFs. Check each site’s terms for commercial use.
What paper size should I use?
Most free printable left right Christmas games are formatted for US Letter (8.5 x 11 inches), the standard size in the United States.
Print a free printable left right Christmas game today and bring easy holiday cheer to your next gathering. Happy passing—and happy holidays!