What are Drinking Games from Around the World?
Drinking games have been an integral part of social gatherings across the globe for centuries, providing a fun way to bond with friends, enjoy a drink, and often, make new memories. But did you know that different cultures have their own unique drinking game traditions? From the high-energy Korean drinking games to the strategy-filled German games, the world is full of diverse and entertaining ways to enjoy a drink with others. In this pillar blog, we’ll take you on a journey around the world to explore the most popular drinking games from different countries and provide links to dive deeper into each specific culture’s traditions.
Grab your favorite drink and let’s explore some global drinking fun!
1. Korean Drinking Games: The Art of Strategy and Fun
In Korea, drinking games are a serious business! These games are an essential part of Korean social life and usually involve a lot of strategy, laughter, and sometimes, a bit of risk-taking. One of the most famous Korean drinking games is “Baskin Robbins 31,” where players must take turns counting numbers without saying a number that would result in 31. If you fail, it’s a drink for you!
Another popular Korean game is “The Office Game,” where players must pass a drink to each other while answering questions about their workplace or pretending to work while sipping. The challenge lies in balancing the game rules and your drinking pace.
Learn more about Korean drinking games!
2. German Drinking Games: Tradition Meets Competitive Fun
Germany is famous for its beer culture, and that’s reflected in the drinking games enjoyed across the country. One classic German drinking game is “Kastenlauf” (Beer crate run), where participants must carry a crate of beer (full or empty) through a series of challenges. The goal is to finish the course without spilling or dropping the crate. It’s a mix of physical activity, coordination, and, of course, plenty of beer!
Additionally, “Horns” is a fun game where everyone takes turns guessing a riddle or challenge. The trick is that every wrong answer results in a drink, and the last person standing without being completely hammered is the winner!
Discover more German drinking games!
3. Japanese Drinking Games: Rituals and Laughter Combined
Japanese drinking games are often played in a lighthearted and humorous way, with a strong emphasis on keeping the atmosphere friendly and fun. A popular game in Japan is “King’s Cup” (not to be confused with the Western version), where a king (usually the host) gives instructions to the players, and those who fail to follow them have to drink.
Another well-loved game is “Sokushinbutsu,” a game of balance and focus. Players are tasked with maintaining a steady hand while balancing a glass of sake on their heads. If they spill, they drink more! It’s a game that mixes mindfulness with drinking fun.
Explore Japanese drinking games in more detail!
4. Canadian Drinking Games: Fun with a Friendly Twist
Canada might be known for its maple syrup and beautiful landscapes, but it also has a unique set of drinking games that keep Canadians entertained at parties. One classic game is “Flip Cup”, where two teams compete to flip plastic cups upside down after drinking from them. The game is as much about team coordination as it is about who can drink and flip the quickest.
“Quarters” is another favorite, where players take turns trying to bounce a coin into a cup. Missing means taking a drink! The more skilled you are, the less you drink—but the more your friends get to enjoy it!
Learn more about Canadian drinking games!
5. English Drinking Games: A Pub Culture Tradition
England is well-known for its vibrant pub culture, and drinking games are an essential part of that tradition. A classic English drinking game is “Pub Golf”, which involves setting up a mini-course (usually across multiple pubs) where each drink corresponds to a par value. The goal is to “finish the course” with the least amount of drinks and in the shortest time.
Another iconic game is “The Ring of Fire”, a variation of the traditional “Kings” card game, where players draw cards and follow instructions. The twists in this game make it a thrilling experience, especially as the stakes get higher with each round!
Check out more English drinking games!
6. Australian Drinking Games: Fun, Fast, and Wild
In Australia, drinking games are often high-energy and full of humor, perfect for a lively social gathering. One famous Australian game is “Power Hour,” where participants take a shot of beer every minute for an entire hour. It sounds simple, but it can get difficult as time passes, especially with the sheer volume of beer consumed!
Another fast-paced Australian favorite is “Drunk Jenga,” a twist on the classic game where each block has a different challenge written on it. As players take turns removing blocks, they must also perform the challenge—often resulting in hilarious situations!
Dive deeper into Australian drinking games here!
Why Drinking Games Are More Than Just Fun
Drinking games aren’t just about consuming alcohol—they play a significant role in building social connections, creating shared memories, and encouraging laughter. Whether you’re bonding with friends, breaking the ice at a party, or just enjoying the company of strangers, these games help lower social barriers and create a sense of camaraderie. Plus, they’re just a great way to add extra excitement to any gathering!
In many cultures, drinking games are also tied to traditions and rituals, turning each game into an experience that reflects local values, humor, and community spirit.
The Best Drinking Games for Your Next Party
Now that you’ve had a taste of drinking game traditions from around the world, why not try a few at your next gathering? You can even mix and match games from different cultures to create a global drinking experience. No matter where you are, playing a drinking game is sure to add a dose of fun and laughter to your party.
So, next time you host a party, be sure to incorporate one or more of these unique games. You’ll have your guests laughing, bonding, and creating unforgettable memories in no time!
Drink, Laugh, and Enjoy!
Drinking games are a fantastic way to bring people together, celebrate traditions, and have a great time with friends. Whether you’re interested in Korean strategy games or German beer-drinking challenges, the world is full of exciting ways to enjoy a drink. So, grab a drink, gather your friends, and get ready for a night filled with laughter, fun, and maybe a little bit of competition!
If you’re looking for something new to spice up your next game night, we recommend trying Pick Me Up, a fun and cheeky party game designed to break the ice and get everyone laughing. It’s perfect for all types of gatherings, especially when you want to add some playful humor into the mix. Trust us—your guests will be groaning and giggling all night long!
FAQs: Drinking Games from Around the World
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What are the best drinking games for a party?
The best drinking games depend on the vibe you're looking for! If you enjoy strategy and teamwork, try Korean or German drinking games. For something more lighthearted and fun, games like Kings Cup or Flip Cup are always popular. If you’re looking to add humor, Pick Me Up is a great choice to get everyone laughing and involved. -
Are drinking games only for large groups?
Not at all! While many drinking games are designed for large groups, there are plenty that work well for smaller groups, like four people. Examples include Kings Cup, Spoons, or traditional card games with a drinking twist. With a bit of creativity, you can adapt any game for your party size. -
How can I make drinking games more fun?
The key to fun drinking games is keeping the energy high and the atmosphere light! Consider mixing in some humor or silly challenges, like Pick Me Up, which encourages laughter with cheeky pickup lines. Also, try to ensure everyone participates by using team-based games, which promote social interaction and keep the game flowing. -
How do I play Pick Me Up?
Pick Me Up is a fun and cheeky party game where players take turns drawing cards with hilarious and flirty pickup lines. The goal is to make your friends laugh (or groan) with the most outlandish lines! Perfect for breaking the ice and keeping everyone entertained at any gathering. -
Can I mix different cultural drinking games at my party?
Absolutely! Mixing drinking games from different cultures can add a unique twist to your party. For example, you could play a round of Soju Pong from Korea and then try Beer Frisbee from Germany. Just make sure the rules are clear and everyone is on the same page. The mix of traditions will make for a memorable and fun experience!
