Thanksgiving Bingo Game for Kids

Make Thanksgiving bingo cards in two versions using the picture and word lists below. Draw one card per player, cut the calling cards, and use dried corn kernels as markers. One round takes about ten minutes, a set works for up to 25 kids, and four play variations keep the game fresh.

What comes in the game?

The game uses 8 unique picture cards, 8 unique word cards, and one calling-card sheet. The picture cards show Thanksgiving images like turkeys, pumpkins, pies, and corn, so pre-readers play by matching pictures. The word cards use the same pictures with printed words under each one for readers. The calling-card sheet has every picture on its own square; cut it apart and draw from a bowl or hat.

How do you set up a game?

1. Draw one bingo card per player on cardstock or regular paper. Cardstock lasts through multiple rounds; regular paper works if you laminate it or slip it in a page protector.
2. Draw one calling-card sheet with every picture on its own square, cut the squares apart, and fold them into a bowl, hat, or basket.
3. Give each player a pile of markers: dried corn kernels, dried beans, or small paper squares.
4. Pick a caller. The caller draws a calling card, shows the picture, and names it out loud.
5. Players cover the matching square on their card. The first player to complete the winning pattern calls out "Bingo!" and reads their covered squares back to check.

How many players does it fit?

One set covers up to 25 players: 8 unique picture cards and 8 unique word cards, mixed so no two players share a card. For a classroom, make one set per table of 4 to 5 kids and let each table play its own game at the same time. The caller can serve all tables from one bowl of calling cards.

How long does one round take?

About 10 minutes with kids who know the pictures. A classroom table of 4 to 5 finishes faster than a big family group, since fewer players mean quicker checking when someone calls bingo. Plan 30 minutes for three rounds plus small prizes.

What are the game variations?

Play a straight line first, since it is the fastest round and teaches the game. Then try four corners, where players cover only the four corner squares. An X pattern covers both diagonals for a longer round. Blackout covers every square and works as the finale, since it takes the longest and builds the most excitement.

What can go wrong?

Corn kernels roll off the table, so give each player a tray or a paper plate to hold their markers. Kids lose cards between rounds, so draw two or three extra cards per table. The caller reads too fast for young players, so agree on a slow pace before the first draw: show the picture, name it, and wait five seconds.

Round out game night with our Thanksgiving charades, or start the season early with the thankful turkey gratitude chain.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What age is this for?

The picture cards work for pre-readers ages 3 and up, since they match images instead of reading words. The word cards fit ages 6 and up who read on their own. Mixed-age groups play together when the caller describes each picture out loud, so younger kids and grandparents stay in the same game.

How messy is it?

Bingo is a no-mess game. You draw the cards, cut the calling cards once, and play with dried corn kernels or paper markers that pick up in seconds. Skip real candy as markers unless you want sticky hands on the cards at the table.

How long does it take?

Drawing and cutting takes about 20 minutes, and one round of bingo takes 10 minutes with kids who know the pictures. A classroom table finishes faster than a big family group, since fewer players mean quicker calls. Plan 30 minutes for three rounds plus prizes.

Is it safe?

Yes. The only small parts are the dried corn kernels, so keep them away from children under 3 who still mouth objects. Paper squares work as markers for toddlers. Cutting the calling cards is a grown-up job for the youngest players.

For more table fun, try our Thanksgiving I Spy game or the Thanksgiving coloring placemat for the kids' table.

Be safe and have fun!