Low-pressure, laugh-out-loud favourites!

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Boxing Day is for leftovers eaten straight from the fridge, pyjamas worn well past noon, and the gentle joy of doing very little at all. It’s the perfect moment to gather around the table (or sprawl on the carpet) and reach for a game that brings people together.

Whether you’re playing with family, friends, or whoever happens to still be in the house, these are the best Boxing Day games: easy to pick up, big on laughs, and guaranteed to spark a little friendly competition.

UNO

A Boxing Day classic for a reason. Fast, chaotic and endlessly replayable, UNO is brilliant for mixed ages and attention spans. The rules are simple, the game plays are dramatic, and no one ever agrees on whether stacking +4s is allowed, which is half the fun.

Best for: All ages, quick rounds, and loud table energy.

Monopoly

Yes, it’s long. Yes, it can get heated. But Boxing Day is one of the few days of the year where you actually have the time to see a game through. Play the long game, lean into the nostalgia, but maybe agree on some house rules before things get too competitive.

Best for: Big families, rainy afternoons, and those who love a showdown.

Scrabble

A calmer, cosier option that pairs perfectly with tea and a slice of leftover Christmas cake. Scrabble is ideal for slow play and thoughtful turns, and for discovering just how competitive people get over triple-word scores.

Best for: Word lovers, quieter moments, and post-lunch gaming.

Pictionary

There’s something about drawing under pressure that brings out pure chaos, especially after a festive drink or two. Expect wildly incorrect guesses, abstract artwork, and a lot of laughter.

Best for: Groups, party energy, and guaranteed giggles.

Dobble

Small, speedy and surprisingly intense, Dobble is all about spotting the matching symbol before anyone else. Rounds last seconds, making it perfect for dipping in and out between snacks.

Best for: Short attention spans, younger players, and quick bursts of fun.

Ticket to Ride

A modern classic that’s easy to learn but deeply satisfying to play. Building routes, collecting cards and sneakily blocking your opponents feels wonderfully absorbing without being overwhelming.

Best for: Cosy evenings, board-game fans, and a more relaxed competitive vibe.

The best games to play on Boxing Day