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A Christmas pass the parcel left right story is a simple read-aloud game for holiday parties, family gatherings, classrooms, and office celebrations. Players sit in a circle while one person reads a festive story containing repeated LEFT and RIGHT instructions. Each time a direction is spoken, the parcel or gift moves to the person sitting in that direction. When the story ends, the person holding the gift keeps it.
This printable works well when you want a Christmas activity that needs very little preparation. It can be used with children who can follow spoken directions, but adults often enjoy the confusion and laughter just as much. The game is also a useful alternative to a traditional Secret Santa or a longer gift exchange because everyone stays involved throughout the reading.
How to Play
- Choose one wrapped present, prize, or parcel. For a classic pass-the-parcel version, wrap a small gift in several layers and place a treat or inexpensive surprise between some layers.
- Have players sit in a circle close enough to pass the gift safely without standing.
- Give the printed story to a confident reader. Ask the reader to speak clearly and pause briefly after each direction.
- Pass the gift one place to the left whenever the story says “left.” Pass it one place to the right whenever it says “right.”
- At the final sentence, the person holding the parcel wins the gift or opens the next layer, depending on the version you choose.
Who It Is Useful For
Use this activity at children’s Christmas parties, classroom celebrations, church groups, family reunions, neighborhood events, and workplace holiday gatherings. It is especially helpful for hosts who need an organized activity for a mixed-age group. To keep the game fair, use a similar-sized gift for each player or provide one shared prize rather than asking guests to bring presents.
Practical Printing Tips
- Print on standard US Letter paper, 8.5 by 11 inches.
- Use portrait orientation unless the file specifies otherwise.
- Select Fit to page or Scale to fit so the story is not cut off at the margins.
- Print in black and white if colored direction words are not essential. Bold text is usually enough for comfortable reading.
- Print one copy for the host and keep it on a clipboard or folder for easier handling.
- Read through the story before guests arrive so you know its length and can check that every direction is easy to spot.
For younger children, seat adults or older children around the circle to help with passing. Remind everyone to move the gift gently and wait for the reader to finish each direction. A clear story, a manageable parcel, and a steady reading pace are all you need for a festive Christmas game that keeps the whole group participating.
Where to Find and Print Christmas Pass The Parcel Left Right Story
The Left Right Game: A Pass the Present Story for Christmas
A direct printable PDF Christmas left-right story designed for gift exchanges and pass-the-present games.
Free Right Left Christmas Game Printable
A free Christmas left-right story with clear direction cues and instructions for family, classroom, and holiday group play.