Dreidel is the game of Hanukkah— easy, fun, and all the enjoyable suspense that a family can have playing together in a ritualistic fashion. As long as you have a dreidel and some chips to play with, then you’re good to go! But what if you are looking for other games that possess the same sensical component that makes dreidel so special? Easy to learn, quick to play, and lovable?
Whether you love the spinning aspects, the ability to win the pot, or just the joy of playing with family and friends, take a look at these board games that possess the same vibe as the dreidel game. Perfect for kids, families, or anyone who appreciates great games in a competitive but loving atmosphere.
Games with Spinning, Rolling, and Random Fun
These games capture the excitement of spinning a dreidel and waiting to see what happens next!
Cthulhu Dice
Instead of spinning a dreidel, you spin a game of your own insanity! This is a super fast paced game where you roll a custom die to take other people’s “sanity” tokens away from them. Much like dreidel, whatever face up symbol comes up determines what you can do. This is a great game for your older children and teenagers who like a little mystery in their life.
Spin-a-roo
Similar type of game but much more colorful. You spin the spinner to match numbers and colors. This is a great game for younger children as it helps with number recognition and sorting. Like dreidel, it’s turn based and crazy outcomes reign supreme!
Pass the Pigs
Instead of spinning a dreidel, you spin two tiny pig dice. Whether they land on their backs, their snouts, or their sides determines how many points you have. It’s silly and unexpected and great for laughs.
Games with Tokens, Pots, and Prizes
These games echo dreidel’s “win the pot” style, where players collect tokens and hope to come out on top.
Liar’s Dice (Kid-Friendly Version)
You roll dice and make predictions about what everyone else has rolled. It’s a game of deception and chance, like the anticipation of spinning the dreidel and waiting for Gimel to pop up! For younger ages, dumb down the rules and just focus on guessing and laughing.
Snorta!
Each player gets an animal token and must remember everyone else’s animal sound. When two players match cards, they race to shout the correct sound. It’s fast, silly, and full of surprises—just like a round of dreidel with chocolate gelt flying everywhere!
Hungry Hungry Hippos
This classic game is all about grabbing as many marbles (tokens!) as possible. It’s loud, fast, and competitive—perfect for kids who love the thrill of collecting and winning.
Simple Strategy Games for All Ages
These games are easy to learn and play in short rounds, making them great companions to dreidel.
UNO
Colorful cards, wild twists, and quick turns make UNO a family favorite. Like dreidel, it’s simple enough for kids but still fun for adults. Plus, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings when you want something light and lively.
Zingo!
A bingo-style game with a tile dispenser that adds excitement to every turn. It’s great for younger kids learning numbers and words, and the fast-paced play keeps everyone engaged.
Don’t Break the Ice
Players take turns tapping out ice blocks, hoping not to make the penguin fall. It’s suspenseful and silly—just like hoping your dreidel lands on Gimel instead of Shin!
Hanukkah-Themed and Cultural Variants
Want to keep the holiday spirit alive while trying something new? These games are inspired by Hanukkah traditions and Jewish culture.
No Limit Texas Dreidel
A humorous mashup of poker and dreidel, this game adds strategy and bluffing to the classic spin. It’s best for older kids and adults who want a fresh twist on tradition.
Hanukkah Bingo
Replace numbers with Hanukkah symbols—menorahs, latkes, gelt, and dreidels! It’s a great way to teach holiday vocabulary while having fun.
Speed Dreidel
A fast-paced version of the classic game where players race to spin and win. Perfect for energetic kids who love a little competition!
Make Your Own Dreidel-Inspired Game
Feeling crafty? Create your own dreidel-like game with an alphabet’s worth of letters as game pieces or animal ones, even cupcakes if you’re feeling like Yoda (get it?). All you need is a spinner, some dice, or printable cards that give random outcomes and then let people hold onto, win or trade pieces based on what they get.
Purchase embellishments like tiaras, ribbons, and little birthday hats to decorate your game pieces. You can also create matching coloring sheets or printable boards!
Final Thoughts
While the dreidel game may be played at Hanukkah, it can be played any time you want to spread joy, good fortune, and good times with family and friends. These like-minded board games dedicate themselves to the same premise with quick playing times, easy-to-follow directions, and comical enjoyment. Whether you’re spinning a dreidel, rolling dice, matching cards, or snacking on gelt, the goal is the same— to have a good time!
This winter holiday season (or any cold and snowy afternoon), select your favorite people and your favorite game and have a ball!