Winter is the perfect season for cozy gatherings, laughter, and friendly competition. But when the chill keeps everyone indoors, how do you keep teens entertained without turning to the usual screen time? Enter the world of minute-to-win-it games—short, fast-paced challenges that are not only fun but also bring out everyone’s competitive spirit.
In this article, we’ve curated 21 of the best winter-themed minute-to-win-it games that are easy to set up and even easier to enjoy. From creative crafts to hilarious physical challenges, these games will add an extra spark of excitement to any winter day or holiday gathering.
1. Snowball Scoop Challenge
This wintery challenge involves scooping “snowballs” (cotton balls) from one bowl to another using a spoon. The catch? No hands are allowed!
Players balance the lightweight snowballs on their spoon, quickly realizing it’s harder than it looks. The fluffy cotton balls tend to fly everywhere, making the game hilariously unpredictable. Laughter fills the room as everyone struggles to scoop the most snowballs within 60 seconds.
The simplicity of this game makes it a perfect icebreaker. It’s easy to set up, and the sheer silliness of it gets everyone smiling right away.
2. Mitten Madness
Unwrapping candies sounds like a breeze—until you have to do it wearing bulky winter mittens! This game is a test of patience and dexterity.
Teens put on a pair of mittens and race against the clock to unwrap as many candies as possible. The added difficulty of the mittens turns a simple task into a hilariously frustrating challenge.
This game is an instant crowd-pleaser. Watching players fumble with their mittens and laugh at their own struggles adds a festive and competitive vibe.
3. Snowman Stack
Building a snowman out of marshmallows may sound easy, but it requires balance, creativity, and a steady hand to win.
Players use toothpicks to stack large and mini marshmallows, forming the tallest snowman they can within a minute. The marshmallows’ uneven shapes and tendency to topple add an extra layer of difficulty.
This game combines creativity with a bit of engineering. It’s perfect for sparking laughter and encouraging players to think on their feet.
4. Ski Boot Shuffle
Imagine shuffling across a room wearing oversized “ski boots.” This game challenges players to balance speed and coordination.
Teens use empty tissue boxes or oversized slippers as makeshift ski boots. They race across the room and back, tagging the next teammate in a relay-style competition.
The ridiculousness of shuffling around in giant “boots” adds an extra dose of fun. This game guarantees high energy and endless giggles.
5. Cookie Face Race
This classic minute-to-win-it game never fails to entertain. Players use only their facial muscles to maneuver a cookie from their forehead to their mouth.
Teens tilt their heads back, place a cookie on their forehead, and wiggle their faces to move the cookie into their mouths. It’s harder than it looks, leading to hilarious attempts and funny expressions.
The best part of this game is how simple yet engaging it is. It’s a must-have for any gathering, and everyone loves a sweet reward at the end.
6. Marshmallow Toss
Teens pair up for this fun and fast-paced challenge. One person tosses marshmallows while the other tries to catch them in a cup—or their mouth!
The game starts with short tosses, but as players gain confidence, the throws become wilder. The time pressure makes it even more exciting as teams race to catch the most marshmallows.
This game is perfect for fostering teamwork and bringing out everyone’s playful side. Plus, who doesn’t love marshmallows?
7. Jingle Bell Toss
Turn your winter gathering into a ring toss competition—with jingle bells! This festive game tests players’ precision and aim.
Participants take turns tossing jingle bells into cups or hoops placed at varying distances. The farther the target, the more challenging the toss becomes.
The cheerful sound of jingle bells and the thrill of earning points make this game a holiday favorite. It’s great for competitive teens who love a good challenge.
8. Candy Cane Hook-Up
This game is all about balance and coordination as players try to hook candy canes using only their mouths.
Each player holds a candy cane in their mouth and uses it to hook as many candy canes as possible from a pile. It’s harder than it looks, and the time pressure adds an extra layer of fun.
The game brings out a mix of focus and laughter. Watching players try not to drop their candy canes makes for great entertainment.
9. Snowball Blow
Players must blow a ping-pong ball, aka a “snowball,” across a table into a designated goal. It’s simple but surprisingly competitive.
The lightweight ball can be tricky to control, leading to unexpected twists and turns. Players must stay focused and use just the right amount of breath to reach the goal.
This game is a fantastic icebreaker. It’s easy to set up, and the competitive spirit kicks in quickly.
10. Scarf Wrap Relay
Speed and teamwork are key in this festive relay race. Teams race to wrap scarves around themselves or their teammates.
Players take turns wrapping a scarf before tagging the next person in line. The goal is to finish the relay before the other team.
This fast-paced game keeps the energy high and adds a holiday touch to the competition. It’s a great way to get everyone moving.
11. Ice Cube Chopsticks
Players use chopsticks to transfer ice cubes from one bowl to another. It’s a test of patience, precision, and coordination.
The slippery surface of the ice cubes makes the task surprisingly tricky. Teens must carefully maneuver each ice cube while racing against the clock.
This game is perfect for adding a bit of quiet concentration to the mix. It challenges players’ skills in a fun and unique way.
12. Penguin Waddle
This hilarious game has players waddling like penguins with a ball or balloon between their knees. It’s a race to the finish line!
Players must keep the ball from dropping as they waddle across the room. The faster they go, the more likely they are to drop the ball, adding to the fun.
The game’s silliness guarantees laughter from start to finish. It’s a great way to lighten the mood and break the ice.
13. Frosty’s Puzzle
Challenge players to complete a winter-themed puzzle in under a minute. It’s a race against the clock!
Teens work quickly to assemble small puzzle pieces, testing their focus and problem-solving skills. The pressure of the timer adds an exciting twist.
This game is perfect for players who love a mix of mental and physical challenges. It’s simple yet incredibly engaging.
14. Snowflake Word Scramble
Unscramble winter-themed words as fast as you can! This game puts players’ vocabulary skills to the test.
Teens race to solve as many scrambled words as possible within the time limit. The faster they work, the more words they can unscramble.
This game adds a brainy twist to your lineup. It’s fun, challenging, and keeps everyone thinking on their feet.
15. Snowman Drawing Blindfolded
Can you draw a snowman without seeing? This creative game is all about chaos and laughs.
Players wear blindfolds and attempt to draw a snowman on a sheet of paper. The results are often hilariously unrecognizable.
This game unleashes everyone’s creative side while keeping the atmosphere lighthearted. It’s always a hit with artistic teens.
16. Winter Scene Build
Let teens showcase their creativity by building a winter scene using craft supplies. The catch? They only have one minute!
Players use cotton balls, glitter, and other materials to create their winter masterpiece. The limited time makes it both exciting and challenging.
This game is ideal for crafty teens who love to show off their artistic skills. It’s fun, festive, and brings out everyone’s imagination.
17. Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Relay
This winter twist on the classic egg-and-spoon race is all about balancing marshmallows and speed.
Teens race to transfer marshmallows into a mug using a spoon. Dropping a marshmallow means starting over, adding extra pressure.
This game combines coordination and excitement. It’s perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your party.
18. Reindeer Antler Ring Toss
Players toss rings onto reindeer antlers in this festive and fun challenge. It’s all about precision and a little holiday magic.
One player wears the antlers while others take turns tossing rings. The player with the most successful throws wins.
This game is a great way to bring a festive feel to your gathering. It’s lighthearted, competitive, and perfect for the season.
19. Ice Skating Shuffle
Turn your floor into a skating rink! Players “skate” using paper plates or cloths as makeshift skates.
Teens slide across the room, completing an obstacle course or racing to the finish line. It’s all about balance and agility.
This game brings out everyone’s inner skater. It’s silly, fun, and a great way to keep the energy up.
20. Gift Wrap Frenzy
Wrapping a gift seems easy—until you have just 60 seconds to do it! This game tests both speed and creativity.
Players race to wrap a box as neatly as possible within the time limit. Bonus points go to those who add a decorative touch.
This game is perfect for the holiday season. It’s fun, festive, and gets everyone in the gifting spirit.
21. Candy Cane Relay
In this team game, players use candy canes to hook and transfer other candy canes to a target area.
Teens race against the clock to hook as many candy canes as possible without using their hands. It’s fast, fun, and festive.
This game combines teamwork and coordination. It’s a perfect way to end your winter festivities on a high note.
Conclusion
These 21 winter-themed minute-to-win-it games are perfect for keeping teens entertained during the chilly months. From silly physical challenges like the Penguin Waddle to creative activities like Winter Scene Build, there’s something for everyone. So, gather your supplies, set the timer, and get ready to create memories filled with laughter and fun. Winter just got a whole lot more exciting!