Why Spades is a Family Holiday Game

> 10 Reasons why it is the perfect holiday game

 

Playing spades games is something many families like to do at the holidays. Spades is a perfect choice for those family gaming sessions. Here's a look at 10 reasons why Spades can be a nice holiday game. It may even become a tradition for your family.

1 – All Ages Can Play

There is no real age limit for the game of Spades. As long as someone is capable of holding their cards, they can play. Sure, the younger kids might need a little help bidding and playing their hand, but that's what grandparents are for. Anyone from 9-90 and beyond can enjoy a game of holiday Spades.

2 – Spades is Easy to Learn

There are complexities to Spades that can take an entire lifetime to master. But that doesn't mean that you can't play with just a minimal amount of instruction. If we are being honest, the best way to learn Spades is to play it. Give the new player someone who understands the game to help them along. That is all that is required.

3 – Teaches Young Players About Cards

Young players can use Spades to learn more about playing cards. They can learn all the different suits and numbers. They can also learn about playing with a partner and teamwork. You can even let them have try at shuffling the deck when it is their turn.

4 – Spades Does Not Involve Gambling

Let's be honest. Gambling games are probably not the best choice at the holidays. Some families like to drink at holiday celebrations, and that can make things even worse. Spades is just a fun, wholesome game for everyone.

5 – Passes the Time

We all know how long the holiday celebration can be, especially when the food is being cooked and everyone is waiting. Start a same of Spades to pass the time. An average game of Spades will last about  90 minutes on average. That is long enough for everyone to take their mind off of waiting to eat!

6 – Spades Can Be Played Tournament Style

Here is something to think about if you have a rather large family. You can play Spades in the format of a tournament. 8 family members would be enough for 4 Spades teams. You can play single elimination or Round Robin style to make the tournament last longer. Be sure to have some type of prize available for the winners, but bragging rights will probably be enough!

7 – Not Too Competitive

Spades is a game with a winner and a loser. With that being said, the game is not too competitive. No one is going to be out to humiliate another team. Always be considerate of everyone's feelings, especially when you are playing with family.

8 – Requires Only a Deck of Cards

When you arrive at the site of the holiday gathering you may find that games are in short supply. It is almost guaranteed that someone in attendance will have a deck of cards in their possession. That's all you need to play Spades. Well, you will also need a piece of paper and a pen or pencil for scoring. It's a simple game that uses the bare minimum of equipment.

9 – Uses Little Space

The only space that you need to have a Spades game is that taken up by a table and four chairs. Just gather everyone around the dining table if need be.

10 – Gets Everyone in the Family Involved

Even those who have no interest in complex board games or other activities will probably be willing to give a game of spades a try. Try matching up the young players with one of the elders, or you can put spouses on the same team. Make it an event that everyone in the family can get excited about.