How To Play The 12 Bars Of Xmas With Your Crew

Who’s game?

Store windows are filled with decorations. Michael Bublé is playing everywhere. And everyone seems to have a drink in their hand most of the time. We are in full Christmas mode, y’all. And, whether or not you’ve finished all possible Christmas chores, it’s time to let loose a little (or a lot).

Sometimes, the usual fun and games aren’t enough to have a good time. If you have an entertaining bunch to hang around with and do the craziest stuff, why not put some extra jingle into your celebrations by doing the 12 Bars of Christmas?

What is this 12 Bars of Christmas, you ask? Well, folks, it’s a traditional drinking game invented by none other than the great race of drinkers — the Irish. It involves going from bar to bar over the course of one evening, decked in your tackiest Christmas outfit while playing by a set of ridiculous rules as you drink a pint in each of the twelve bars. 

It’s a wacky adventure, and drinking lots of beer is encouraged, so sign us up. 

To Christmas, to you and to your partners in crime, here’s taking a look at how to play the 12 Bars. You’ll definitely make a big statement about what kind of night-out planner you are.

Before you start

1. Whip out your most amazing (or shall we say horrible) holiday outfit. An ugly sweater is always a stand out and is sure to stir up some good laughs.
2. Go over the top (think crazy patterns, string lights and lots of tinsel)

Decide on the twelve bars you want to hit. If you fancy having a Gilly’s along the way, plan your route around this map of where to grab our beer. Make sure there are great, quick food options along your route.

Official game rules 

One drink must be downed in each bar. But the real fun is in the rules that everyone needs to follow. Jot them down on your phone so that you can refer back to them (because, there’s always that drunk friend who plays the game seriously)

Bar #1 – Speaking in foreign accents

Did he say “beer can” or “bacon?” Oh, and while you’re at it, how about settling the argument about which accents are the sexiest? 

Bar #2: Must be drink-fed by a partner

Pair up with a buddy, and ensure each has a well lubricated throat for the duration. If you ever wanted to tell someone “hold my beer,” this is your chance. 

Bar #3: No swearing 

Pretend like your grandma is listening. We’re sure “son of a motherless goat!“ doesn’t count as swearing.

Bar #4: No pointing

Keep your index finger to yourself but expect a lot of “your six o’clock or mine?” 

Bar #5: No talking 

Take a vow of silence for 30 minutes and spend some time pondering whether or not the gift you’ve got aunt Margot sends the wrong message. 

Bar #6: No first names

For this part, it’s not ‘Roger,’ but ‘Mr [Insert Last Name]’ or ‘Hodge.’ ‘Dude’ will also suffice. 

Bar #7: Speak in song lyrics

Jingle bells, jingle bells, Jingle all the way. Oh what fun it is to speak, in a sleighing song today. 

Bar #8: No toilet breaks

If you successfully complete this challenge you will truly be the master of your bladder.

Bar #9: Drink with your opposite hand

Everyone has to drink with their ‘weaker’ hand (so if you’re left-handed, you have to drink with your right).

Bar #10: Take a selfie with a stranger

It’s less about getting a perfect image, and more about feeling confident enough to ask a complete stranger to strike a pose with you. 

Bar #11: Stand on one leg while drinking

Bring on the hops. Yes, that kind too!

Bar #12: The dancing fool

Congratulations, you’ve made it through the 12 Bars. Now it’s time to hit the dance floor and bust out your best (or worst) dance moves in celebration of surviving this legendary lunacy.

So, does the 12 Bars of Christmas sound like something you’d enjoy? If so, send a text around to see who is free and organize it! Feel free to tag your friends and record a video of every challenge. 

As always please remember to bring your good manners and not get too carried away with the festive cheer. Drink responsibly and take some time out if you need to, there’s no shame in bowing out of a drinking game.