Sham el Nessim marks the beginning of spring and invites families to enjoy the outdoors with delicious food, beautiful weather, and plenty of fun picnic activities. While the holiday is synonymous with feseekh, spring onions, and picnics in the park, the day is also about bonding over exciting games.
Whether you’re with kids or adults, these activities will add laughter and joy to your Sham el Nessim picnic!
Grab Your Kite and Soar High
One of the most iconic traditions of Sham el Nessim is flying kites, a simple yet thrilling activity that families look forward to every year. There’s something special about seeing those colorful kites fill the sky, competing to see whose can fly the highest.
It’s a perfect opportunity to step away from screens and connect with nature. Plus, with the gentle spring breeze, the kites seem to take on a life of their own, creating a fun challenge for everyone.
Challenge the Family With Tawla and Dominoes
When it comes to picnic games, Tawla (backgammon) and dominoes are classics that always hit the mark. Tawla is a perfect way to bring out some friendly competition, while dominoes adds an element of strategy and excitement.
Both games are great for families, needing little space but offering hours of entertainment. Whether you’re playing to win or just enjoying the moment, these games help foster connection and create plenty of laughter.
Cool Off With Water Balloon Fights
As temperatures rise, there’s no better way to cool down than with a friendly water balloon fight. This is where everyone, from kids to adults, can let loose and enjoy some splashy fun.
It’s a great way to add a burst of energy and laughter to the picnic, and with a few simple precautions (like using biodegradable balloons), it’s an environmentally friendly way to have fun. Just make sure no one is safe, and everyone gets a turn in the splash zone.
Sit Back and Enjoy Some Card Games With the Family
When it’s time to take a break from running around, card games come in handy. Compact and easy to carry, card games like Uno, Tarneeb, or even classic playing cards can turn a picnic into a mini-tournament.
Whether you’re playing a fast-paced round or a strategic game that requires patience, card games offer something for everyone. They also provide a great chance to sit down, relax, and have some friendly conversation while continuing the fun.
Get Everyone Involved With a Game of Charades
Charades is a timeless game that never fails to bring laughs, making it perfect for a Sham el Nessim picnic. The rules are simple: act out a word or phrase without speaking, and have your teammates guess it.
It’s a game that gets everyone involved, from the youngest to the oldest, and it sparks plenty of laughter as family members try to mimic everything from animals to famous movie scenes. If you need a little help or are looking for new categories, mobile apps can provide inspiration and make the game even more fun.
Color Eggs With Your Little Ones
We can’t talk about Sham el Nessim activities without mentioning the classic tradition of coloring eggs. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that brings out creativity in kids and adults alike.
Families gather to dye eggs in vibrant colors, often using natural dyes like onion skins, beets, or turmeric. Once the eggs are colored, they become part of the holiday’s festivities, often being displayed as a symbol of spring.
Making Memories One Game at a Time
Sham el Nessim is all about celebrating the season, but it’s also a time for families to come together, share in the joy of the outdoors, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re flying kites, battling it out in Tawla, or splashing around in water balloon fights, these activities offer something for everyone. So, gather your family, pack your favorite games, and make this Sham el Nessim picnic one to remember!
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