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A left or right game Christmas gift exchange is a simple holiday activity that turns a regular present swap into a lively group game. Participants sit in a circle with wrapped gifts, while one person reads a Christmas-themed story aloud. Each time the story says LEFT, players pass their gifts to the left. Each time it says RIGHT, they pass to the right. When the story ends, each person keeps the gift in front of them.
The printable usually includes a short story with repeated direction words and basic instructions for the host. Some versions are written for one shared gift, while others allow every guest to begin with a wrapped present. The activity is similar to a white elephant exchange, but it does not require stealing gifts, drawing numbers, or managing complicated turns.
Who Can Use This Christmas Gift Exchange Game?
This printable works well for family gatherings, classroom parties, office celebrations, church groups, neighborhood events, and casual Christmas get-togethers. It is suitable for children who can follow simple directions, as well as adults who want a quick and low-preparation party activity.
For a larger group, have everyone bring a small wrapped gift within an agreed price range. Useful choices include mugs, snacks, ornaments, gift cards, candles, stocking stuffers, or humorous novelty items. For younger children, use small toys, books, craft supplies, or candy. If guests are not bringing gifts, use one wrapped prize and pass it around the circle.
How to Play
- Print the Christmas left or right story and choose one person to read it.
- Ask players to sit in a circle and give each person one wrapped gift, or place one gift with a starting player.
- Explain that gifts move only when the reader says “left” or “right.”
- Read slowly and emphasize each direction word so players have time to pass their gifts.
- Stop when the story is finished. The gift each person is holding is the gift they keep.
Before starting, decide whether gifts should remain wrapped until the end. Keeping them wrapped adds suspense and prevents players from focusing on particular presents. For a shorter activity, use one gift. For more participation, give everyone a gift and let the story create a randomized exchange.
Practical Printing Tips
- Print on standard US Letter paper at 100% or “actual size.”
- Use a clear, dark print setting so LEFT and RIGHT are easy to spot.
- Print a spare copy in case the reader loses their place.
- Place the story in a folder or plastic sleeve if it will be used outdoors or near food.
- Read the story once before the party to check its pacing and direction cues.
A printable left or right Christmas game is an inexpensive way to add structure, movement, and laughter to a holiday gift exchange without lengthy preparation.
Where to Find and Print Left Or Right Game Christmas Gift Exchange
Free Right Left Christmas Game Printable for a Gift Exchange
A free Christmas-themed left and right passing story with instructions for using individual gifts or one shared gift.
The Left Right Game Christmas Story Printable PDF
A direct printable PDF story for passing a present left or right during a Christmas gift exchange.