Skip the Cringe, Add the Comedy: A Holiday Tradition Worth Keeping
We’ve all been there…you finally gather the family for the holidays, and instead of magical memories… you get awkward silences, teenagers glued to their phones, and Uncle Joe telling that story for the 14th year in a row.
Holiday gatherings are supposed to be joyful, but let’s be honest—they can use a little help. And that’s where comedy comes in.
Why Comedy Works at Family Gatherings
Laughter does what small talk never can—it breaks down walls, eases tension, and gives everyone a reason to join in. Instead of enduring those cringy moments, why not replace them with something fresh, fun, and unforgettable?
A New Holiday Tradition
This year, replace the cringe with comedy. Start a tradition that celebrates laughter, imagination, and the uniqueness God put in each person at your gathering.
Here are some “MAD” ideas…
1. Family “Stand-Up Spotlight”
Give each person 2–3 minutes to tell a funny story, dad-joke, or family memory on “stage” (aka the living room). Hand them a wooden spoon or wrapping paper tube as a “microphone.” Instant laughs and blackmail material.
2. Holiday Charades with a Twist
Classic charades, but write prompts that are specific to your family—like “Grandma’s famous turkey disaster” or “Dad trying to fix the Christmas lights.” The inside jokes will make it 10x funnier.
3. Silly Photo Booth Challenge
Set up a corner with hats, scarves, wrapping paper, and ornaments. Challenge families to take the goofiest group picture possible in 2 minutes. Print or share them later for a “funniest photo” vote. Or how about a photo scavenger hunt with teams?
4. Wrong-Lyrics Christmas Karaoke
Play well-known Christmas carols but challenge participants to improvise totally wrong lyrics (the sillier the better). Example: “Jingle bells, Batman smells” is just the warm-up.
5. Drama Games or Mixers! Improv activities are magic! Check out my Pinterest board for Mixers & Drama Games →https://www.pinterest.com/madsocietyinc/drama-games-mixers/
With joy,
~Bethany
Owner & Creator of Music, Art & Drama “MAD” Society
P.S. “Want to hit the EASY BUTTON?! 🎯I’ve created ready-to-use Group Improv Skits that make it simple to pull this off. You don’t need theater experience—just download a skit, gather your people and let the fun unfold.
👉 [Check out the improv skits here] → https://www.madsocietyinc.com/store/group-improv-skits
