The Saran Wrap game has become a popular holiday activity, but it’s not the most eco-friendly option. Did you know that plastic wrap can take hundreds of years to decompose and is often ingested by wildlife, causing harm or even death? According to studies, over 1 million marine animals die each year due to plastic pollution, and items like Saran Wrap contribute significantly to this issue. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to the Saran Wrap game that are just as fun and don’t contribute to unnecessary waste. Here are some creative ideas that work for both kids and adults.
The Cloth Wrap Game
One of the best alternatives to the Saran Wrap game is to use a large piece of fabric or reusable cloth to wrap small gifts. Layer the items within the fabric, tying knots or using ribbons to secure each layer. This not only replaces plastic wrap but also introduces an element of sustainability and creativity. Players take turns unwrapping layers, revealing prizes without harming the environment.
How to Play:
- Gather a large piece of fabric and small prizes.
- Start with the largest prize, placing it in the center of the fabric.
- Fold the fabric over the prize and add the next item on top.
- Repeat the process, layering and folding, tying knots or ribbons between layers for added challenge.
- Players sit in a circle, taking turns unwrapping one layer of the fabric to reveal their prize.
Basket of Surprises
Instead of using plastic wrap, consider filling a reusable basket or box with goodies. Items can be layered with shredded paper or fabric scraps. This alternative to the Saran Wrap game for adults can be particularly enjoyable when themed around favorite snacks, small gifts, or even holiday essentials. The added benefit is that the basket or box itself becomes a reusable gift.
How to Play:
- Select a reusable basket or box and gather small prizes.
- Layer the prizes inside, using shredded paper, fabric scraps, or tissue paper between each layer.
- Players draw items from the basket in turn, either at random or by answering holiday trivia to earn a chance to pick.
Reusable Bags or Pouches
For a compact and sustainable option, use reusable fabric pouches to hold individual prizes. Players can draw a pouch at random, keeping the fun and excitement of the game intact. This method eliminates waste and adds a charming, handmade touch to the experience.
How to Play:
- Fill small reusable fabric pouches with prizes.
- Arrange the pouches in a festive bag or box.
- Players take turns drawing a pouch and opening it to reveal their prize.
- Add a twist by incorporating a game or trivia to determine the order of draws.
Pass the Parcel with Recycled Paper
If you love the traditional pass-the-parcel idea, switch to wrapping gifts in recycled paper or newspaper. Each layer can include small notes or challenges alongside the prizes. This is a simple and effective way to make the game sustainable while maintaining its interactive appeal.
How to Play:
- Wrap a small prize in recycled paper or newspaper.
- Add another layer with a note or challenge, then wrap again.
- Repeat until all prizes are wrapped.
- Players pass the parcel around a circle to music; when the music stops, the player holding the parcel unwraps one layer.
- Continue until all prizes are revealed.
Holiday Scavenger Hunt
As an entirely different approach, a scavenger hunt offers an exciting alternative to the Saran Wrap game. Hide small gifts or treats around your home or yard, providing eco-friendly clues written on recycled paper. This method encourages movement, teamwork, and fun without any waste.
How to Play:
- Gather small prizes and hide them around your home or yard.
- Write clues on recycled paper to guide players to each location.
- Divide players into teams or let them hunt individually.
- The first person or team to find all the prizes wins.
Sustainable Secret Santa
Another creative and eco-friendly spin is to combine the concept with a Secret Santa gift exchange. Instead of wrapping in layers, participants can draw from a bowl or pick items that have been hidden in reusable containers. This alternative to the Saran Wrap game for adults ensures everyone receives something special without compromising on sustainability.
How to Play:
- Assign Secret Santa participants and have each person bring a small gift.
- Hide the gifts in reusable containers or pouches.
- Participants draw names and retrieve their gifts, or pick randomly from a selection.
- Add a fun guessing element by having participants guess their Secret Santa.
Why Choose Sustainable Options?
Making eco-friendly choices for your holiday games reduces waste and promotes sustainability during a season often marked by overconsumption. By adopting these alternatives, you can create lasting memories without contributing to plastic pollution.
These options show that fun and sustainability can go hand in hand, making them the best alternatives to the Saran Wrap game. Whether you’re hosting for kids or adults, there’s a creative, eco-friendly solution for everyone.
