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Trauma Incoming: “Final Destination: Bloodlines” Is Coming Out On 2025

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Hoy Marites, unsay latest? Naay upcoming horror movie ig 2025!

So, what is Final Destination: Bloodlines all about? Will it be worth the hype? Lemme explain. Final Destination: Bloodlines is an upcoming supernatural horror film and the sixth installment in the Final Destination film series. It is directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, the film was written by Guy Busick and Lori Evans Taylor. The new film was produced by New Line Cinema and it is scheduled to be released in the United States by Warner Bros. Pictures on May 16, 2025. 

The cast members of this movie includes Tony Todd, Brec Bassinger, Teo Briones, Kaitlyn Santa Juana, Richard Harmon, Anna Lore, Owen Patrick Joyner, Max Lloyd-Jones, Rya Kihlstedt and Tinpo Lee.

Behind-the-scene shots of the cast
Behind-the-scene shots

Before the release of Final Destination 5 in 2015, actor Tony Todd said if the film were to be successful, two sequels would be filmed back to back. In 2019, New Line Cinema announced a development in the new installment for the Final Destination franchise. Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan wrote the script, re-imagining the franchise. The film would be set in the world of first responders, and feature EMTs, firefighters, and police officers. That October, series creator Jeffrey Reddick confirmed that the sixth film had been in the works prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The production had experienced delays due to the SAG-AFTRA strike in mid July 2023. However, in October 2021, the series creator revealed that the film will be different from the franchise’s formula since the film will focus on the character’s backstory. Filming instead took place in Canada from March 4 to May 13, 2024, with Christian Sebalt as their cinematographer.

88-Peso One-Way Base Fares for 12.12 Seat Sale

Tara, let’s book a flight for June 2025!

Cebu Pacific, one of the leading budget airlines in the Philippines, is set to make your 2025 travel even more affordable with its much-anticipated 12.12 sale.

Photo from Ram Mancelita

For a limited time, the airline is offering one-way base fares starting as low as Php 88.00 for selected domestic and international destinations. However, it’s important to note that this offer applies only to the base fare and does not include additional fees or surcharges, which may vary depending on the chosen destination.

Photo from Ram Mancelita

The catch is that the booking window for this promotion is short, so for you to take advantage of these fares, you must book your tickets before Friday, December 13, 2024. The travel period for this promotion spans from June 1, 2025 to November 30, 2025, allowing you to secure your flights for the upcoming months. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting break in another city, this sale makes it easier than ever to find affordable flights to a variety of Instagram-worthy places.

Photo from Leah Yin

The 12.12 sale is expected to be highly popular, so travelers are encouraged to act quickly to grab the best deals before they’re gone. Nya, asa man ta next year, Sugboanons?

A Symphony of 300 Voices: Celebrating World Choral Day at SM Seaside

“Music is the universal language of mankind.”

Photo from SM Seaside

This is the season to listen to the 300 voices that filled the room as Cebu’s finest choral groups united in celebration of the World Choral Day at SM Seaside. In this article, we would like to introduce to you the top eight performing groups who brought the holiday spirit to life with their beautiful voices. Ing ana jud ang Pinoy! Dili magpapildi.

Photo from SM Seaside
Photo from SM Seaside
Photo from SM Seaside

Los Cantantes Cebu 

Photo from SM Seaside

Los Cantantes Cebu is a community based choral group whose sole purpose is to serve the Lord with their burning passion in music. The choral group has a YouTube channel that features their performances in various competitions and also has their own Apple and Spotify playlist that has their top songs and covers. The choral group also posts their relatable content on Tiktok and Instagram about their daily life as a choir group and song covers.

UP Serenata 

Photo from SM Seaside

UP Serenata is the official choral group of the University of the Philippines-Cebu and it is composed of students and alumni from the university. The choral group’s repertoire predominantly comprises Cebuano music with the advocacy to sustain, continue, and propagate Cebuano culture, inside and outside of the Philippines. Under the leadership of Doctor Catherine Rodel, the group has not only won numerous awards throughout the years, but also continually makes an effort to help non-governmental organizations by having fundraising concerts.

Photo from SM Seaside

In 2017, UP Serenata firstly partnered UP Ambassadors (UPSA), one of the best leading choirs in the country for their concert at the International Eucharistic Convention. The UP Ambassadors under the leadership of Professor Edgardo Manguiat, have also reaped several awards abroad. UP Serenata placed second place at Gawad Pangulo Choral Competition and “Best Interpretation of a Contest Piece.” In 2016, the choral group had their first Broadway concert entitled “Music of the Night” in celebration of its 16th founding anniversary and for the benefit of the orphans of My Refuge House Ministry. For more than 16 years, Serenata has garnered awards, won different contests, and performed several benefit concerts.

Photo from SM Seaside

Koro Teknoy

Photo from SM Seaside

Koro Teknoy is the official choral group of the Cebu Institute of Technology – University. The choral group proudly participated in the celebration of World Choral Day at SM Seaside along with other fellow chorister groups to kick off the holiday season. On December 4, they recently partnered with Rotaract of Metro Cebu Institute of Technology University for Project Solis in making an effort to create positive change. Koro Teknoy has also performed in various events in Cebu City. 

Huni Habagat 

Photo from SM Seaside

Huni Habagat is the official choral group of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation. Other than being one of the participants in the World Choral Day Celebration, the choral group has also recently performed at the M Lhuillier Christmas Tree Lighting on December 3. Huni Habagat also has a Spotify and Apple playlist where you can listen to their rendition “Mahal Ka Namin, O Senor Santo Nino.” 

CTU Choristers

Photo from SM Seaside

CTU Choristers come with the introduction “We Sing, We Serve, We Perform” as the choral group of the Cebu Technological University – Main Campus. The group had the honor of joining their fellow choristers on stage for the World Choral Day Celebration at SM Seaside. The special day became even more meaningful as we celebrated the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, reflecting on gratitude and faith while lifting their voices on a song. Underdogs in the past years, in 2017, the choral group headed to nationals after their win against the defending champions against another Cebu State University.

CNU Chorale 

Photo from SM Seaside

The CNU Chorale live by their mantra, “We sing to express, not to impress” other than being the choral group of the Cebu Normal University, one of the oldest institutions in Cebu. True to their mantra, the CNU Chorale achieved remarkable success this year at the 13th Bali International Choir Festival, marking their first international competition with a series of outstanding performances that reaped mutiple prestigious awards. 

Photo from SM Seaside

This series of awards afforded them a spot to the Grand Prix, a significant recognition that placed them among the best choirs in the competition. They made history by winning the first ever Conductors Choice Awards in the BICF, received by their talented adviser and conductor Ms. Darlane Yap. CNU Chorale success highlights the rich cultural and musical heritage of Cebu on the international stage. 

UC Chorus

Photo from SM Seaside

The UC Chorus is the official choral group of the University of Cebu, they’re also known as the “New Singing Ambassadors,” established in 1970 as a High School Glee Club which developed into an in-house Choral organization with members coming from the High School and different colleges. Its programs include “Production work for school programs; Outreach programs by performing in events outside of school; Technical Services” Sound System provision; promoting excellence by joining competitions; Development of music repertoire; income generating projects and formation of an artists’ cooperative. 

Salazar Singing Ambassadors

Photo from SM Seaside

The Salazar Singing Ambassadors is a choral group from the Salazar Colleges of Science and Institute of Technology. This year,  the SCSIT performers brought the beauty of Chinese culture and long-standing historical ties between the Filipino and Chinese communities through weaving diverse cultures through dance and music. Together with Sidlak Dance Troupe joins the Gabii sa Kabilin 2024 at the Fo Guang Shan Chu Un, a buddhist temple at the top of the hill in Rama Avenue, Cebu City.

Gabii sa Kabilin is a program established by RAFI in 2007 with the aim to preserve Cebu’s unique culture and traditions. This year’s Gabii sa Kabilin theme, “Padayon,” emphasizes why the Cebuano race, spirit, and personality have thrived in the face of several crises and hardships. The whole Salazarian community takes immense pride in nurturing talented individuals who never fail in showcasing their talent in various fields. 

There’s really something in the waters of Cebu that brought these eight wonderful choral groups to shine in their own light this Christmas season as we celebrate “World Choral Day” and sharing the stage with their fellow choristers group is already an honor itself. It has brought great pride to our selves as Cebuanos, as we continue to nurture our passions every step of the way and represent our country in various competitions locally and abroad. This is just the tip of the iceberg as we continue to discover more on the musicality of Filipinos and the rewards they have reaped in the past.

Grow Your Business with TikTok in Cebu

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A digital nomad is no stranger to Jomar Yee who probably passed your “for you” pages a multitude of times. What people probably don’t know is how his TikTok content about an umbrella led to extensive sales conversions for the brand. Businesses had to shift things around when digital platforms became the next big thing in marketing to stay relevant and competitive. Now, the digital space has evolved and another potential was unlocked for both enterprises and the market – ecommerce platforms like TikTok Shop. To a consumer, it’s a convenient and affordable way to acquire items. To brands, it’s an opportunity to reach a wider audience and boost sales. It is hard to pass out this budding possibility to to learn about how to effectively use TikTok and TikTok Shop for your business, on TikTok which is why RGC Brings TikTok to Cebu! The Republiq Group of Companies (RGC), in partnership with TikTok, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Department of Trade and Industry – Central Visayas, invites micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for a chance to learn about building a TikTok Shop, market insights and trends, sales strategies, real-life ecommerce stories, and more from TikTok Shop representatives and key individuals in the business community. 

Discover the world of ecommerce and grow your business with RGC Brings TikTok to Cebu this coming December 9, 2024 from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at The Grand Ballroom of NUSTAR Resort and Casino. For registration and more information, check out Republiq Group of Companies on Facebook. 

Together, let’s grow our businesses with TikTok!

Art, Music, & Culture: Fiesta Haraya Bai 2024 Weekend Activities

Filipino creativity never ceases to amaze!

Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7, Fiesta Haraya Bai 2024 is a huge celebration of creativity and culture. There’s tons of exciting workshops and activities, all focused on the arts—think film, theater, music, animation, and so much more! If you didn’t make it today, don’t worry because the biggest events are happening this Saturday and Sunday, December 7 and 8, 2024.

Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page

So, let’s check out on the event’s programs for the weekend:

SATURDAY

Day 2 of Fiesta Haraya Bai Fair 2024 is all about the art of creation—whether it’s weaving stories for the stage or crafting plotlines for video games. One of the exciting highlights is a deep dive into the making of the new Cebuano musical, “Hopeless Romantics Inc.,” directed and written by Jude Gitamondoc. He’ll be sharing the magic behind the play’s music and how it all comes together, including the beautiful song “Breathe You,” originally sung by the talented, and now fashion icon, Heart Evangelista. It’s a chance to see the creative process firsthand and get a sneak peek into the making of the incredible musical which will be staged in February 2025!

Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page & Hopeless Romantics Inc Official Facebook Page

Aside from that, there will also be the esteemed Dwende Creative Sprint Awarding and the most-awaited Cebu Music Expo which will take the night away!

Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page

SUNDAY

Day 3 promises an unforgettable closing program, packed with exciting opportunities! You’ll have the chance to be mentored by the talented Dwende Winners, plus enjoy grand performances from the Knapsack Dancers. The day will also feature a showcase of incredible talents from Musika Haraya, all leading up to the grand Cebu Music Expo finale.

Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page

DTI-Region 7 has plenty more exciting events and activities lined up, especially as we approach the new year. So, if you’re craving more, make sure to support their upcoming programs and events, and take every opportunity to celebrate and embrace the rich and creative Filipino and Cebuano culture that makes us proud!

Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Ground Floor, Corte Garden, Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu City

  • By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Ayala Malls Central Bloc” as your destination.
Photo from DTI Region 7 Central Visayas Official Facebook Page

Danao City: Rising to New Heights as a 2nd Class Income City

Congratulations, Danawanons!

Photo from Danao-City Gov’t Official Facebook Page

Danao City has recently been classified as a second-class income city, meaning it’s raking in between 1 billion and 1.3 billion Philippine pesos in revenue! This is more than just a shiny new title; it’s a clear sign of its booming economy and its irresistible charm for attracting investments!

Mayor Thomas Mark “Mix” Durano emphasizes that this upgrade will lead to increased optimism and efforts to draw investments in various sectors, particularly manufacturing and business process management (BPM). The classification is expected to benefit the community through job creation and sustainable growth initiatives.

Danao City has a history of industrial presence, with established companies like Cebu Mitsumi and Republic Cement contributing to its reputation as an investment destination. Mayor Durano mentions that his grandfather’s efforts in attracting industrial investments have had a lasting impact on the community.

Photo from Danao-City Gov’t Official Facebook Page

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

Mayor Durano also unveiled a fantastic new addition to the city’s bustling business scene—a brand-new commissary for Jollibee Foods Corp., set to open its doors next year! This sprawling two-hectare facility is poised to meet the food processing needs of beloved brands like Jollibee, Mang Inasal, and Chowking across the Visayas. Best of all, it’s expected to create a whopping 600 jobs, bringing a wave of opportunity to the community!

But that’s not all! To supercharge industrial growth, Durano shared that the city has given the green light to its Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), which carves out designated areas for agricultural, industrial, and agro-industrial development. A generous 300 hectares are now open for eager locators, complete with essential infrastructure like water and electricity already in place. With the city council’s approval secured, the plan is now awaiting the final nod at the provincial level. Exciting times are ahead!

Photo from Danao-City Gov’t Official Facebook Page

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Danao City aims to diversify its economy by ramping up its BPM sector! With 2,000 freshly trained graduates ready to dive into the BPM world, the city is buzzing with excitement over plans for a dedicated BPM facility. But that’s not all! A cutting-edge digitalization roadmap is in the works, transforming Danao into a vibrant IT-BPM hub. And to make remote work and online education a breeze, free internet access will soon blanket every barangay.

Photo from Danao-City Gov’t Official Facebook Page

Overall, this upgrade sends a clear message: Danao City is not just dreaming of a brighter future—it’s making it happen! With a focus on boosting industrial capacity, attracting investment, and enhancing the livelihoods of its residents, the city is stepping boldly into a world of progress and optimism.

Actors Who Took Method Acting Too Far

No, you can’t blame method acting for your real-life actions…such as cheating on your partner.

Photo from Pexels

Becoming an effective actor requires a wide range of skills, including the ability to disconnect from reality when performing. This is why there are many different acting techniques designed to help actors improve their craft, one of which is method acting.

Recently, the term gained attention after Anthony Jennings’ ex-girlfriend, Jamella Villanueva, shared “receipts” revealing his alleged affair with co-actor Maris Racal. According to Villanueva, Jennings believed that making his co-star feel loved and appreciated was the only way to ensure their work went smoothly and for his partner to perform well, especially since she was going through a tough time.

Method acting isn’t a new concept in the entertainment industry, and it’s not just Jennings who has used it to enhance his performance. However, not every method actor has ended up in a cheating scandal because of it.

Actors Who Opted for Method Acting

Let’s take a look at other actors who’ve taken method acting to extreme lengths to fully immerse themselves in their roles:

Mon Confiado

Mon Confiado, one of the most well-known method actors in the Philippines, shared that to authentically portray a “taong grasa” (a homeless person) in the film Sa Kabilang Dako, he spent a night on the streets without money, trying to survive as his character would.

Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro once took the streets as a cab driver for him to get to know what it’s like being one to characterize his role in “Taxi Driver.”

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone pushed his co-actor to throw real punches during the Rocky films. The iconic scene where Rocky and Drago exchange real blows nearly cost Stallone his life. “Later that night, my heart started to swell, my blood pressure went up to 260, and I thought I was going to meet the angels. I had to be rushed to intensive care and flown from Canada to California,” Stallone recalled on Good Morning America.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey took his portrayal of Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon to such extremes that the production crew grew frustrated with him for continuing to act like the comedian, even when the cameras were off.

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage went to extreme lengths for his role as “Al Columbato” in Birdy. He pulled out his own teeth and wore the same bandages for five weeks. His dedication helped bring the film to life, winning the Grand Prix Spécial du Jury at the Cannes Film Festival, one of its highest honors.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale shed 62 pounds for his role in The Machinist, surviving on a diet of apples, coffee, water, cigarettes, and whiskey to portray his character.

Austin Butler

Austin Butler, as he plays the role of “Elvis Presley,” shared that he opted to take on an Elvis speaking voice to get to know and embrace the character, and soon he admitted that it took a toll on him, “You can lose touch with who you actually are. And I definitely had that when I finished Elvis — not knowing who I was.”

Jared Leto

Jared Leto took his commitment to the Joker role in The Suicide Squad to another level, allegedly sending his co-stars strange gifts like condoms and anal beads, just for fun.

There are other method actors, both in Hollywood and in the Philippine entertainment industry, however, the aforementioned are the notable ones who really caught the attention of the public. But the question is, should we add Jennings to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below, Sugboanons!

Legal Nightmares Ahead: The Dangers of Posting Evidence of Cheating Online!

Receipts, receipts, receipts…

At midnight on December 4, 2024, social media exploded when Jam Villanueva posted about the cheating allegations against her ex-boyfriend, Anthony Jennings—AND THERE WERE RECEIPTS!

Of course, netizens quickly took screenshots of the post and spread it across the internet, making it go viral. By the morning of the same day, people began commenting, and many started bringing up Maris Racal’s previous partner, Rico Blanco, as he remained silent on the matter.

The “receipts” Jam shared included several photos, showing proof of Anthony and Maris’s private moments, from their “hot” conversations and dating days to the denied allegations and broken promises of “never again.”

While Jam’s intention was likely to find peace of mind, her actions raised concerns from legal advisors, who warned that this could lead to a legal battle over libel and invasion of privacy.

In today’s world, where social media is a go-to platform for airing personal issues, discovering infidelity often prompts people to share private conversations online. But the question remains: even if you’re not married, is it okay to post the chats of your cheating partner?

Screengrab from Jamela Villanueva’s Instagram Account
Screengrab from Jamela Villanueva’s Instagram Account

Libel: The Risk of Defamation

Libel is a serious offense in the Philippines, and people, including those in the media, have faced legal action for it. In our country, and in many others, libel is considered a criminal act.

According to Article 353 of the Revised Penal Code, the offense is when someone publicly accuses another person of a crime that could damage their reputation. In connection, since Jam posted her accusations on social media, she may also be in violation of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. This law covers libel committed online, including on social media platforms and websites.

Therefore, if you post intimate or any sort of incriminating conversations that may harm other people’s reputation, you could be accused of libel in return, even if your claims are true. The Philippine law doesn’t give out free passes to the cheated for as long as what you shared and spread about defamed another party; and you may face up to four (4) years in jail for such an act.

Screengrab from Jamela Villanueva’s Instagram Account

Anti-Privacy Law: The Right to Privacy

In today’s world, protecting our privacy has become more important than ever. Along with the potential for a libel case, Jam’s actions may also violate Republic Act No. 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012. This law ensures that individuals have the right to keep their personal information and communications private, including text messages, emails, and chats. It prevents the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive and private content, such as the chats Jam shared.

While posting and sharing private conversations, especially on social media, might seem like a normal response for many, there are other options that could have been considered. But, let’s be honest, if we were in her shoes, we might have found ourselves torn between sharing the truth and dealing with the hurt in private as well, and that’s understandable especially through all the hurt and anxiety one may have acquired during the messed up breakup. And, the fact that Maris and Anthony are public figures only added fuel to the fire as netizens began questioning Jam’s intentions, wondering if she was seeking the spotlight rather than just sharing her pain.

But, what do you think, Sugboanons? Should the scorned partner post proof of the cheating scandal or must it be kept between the involved parties only? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Chick Number 30: A Tragic Death The Philippine Eagle Chick

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In recent news, the Philippine Eagle chick, named “Chick Number 30” hatched via artificial insemination, died 17 days after its birth. The chick was the first successful hatchling in the Philippine Eagle Foundation’s new facility, raising initial hopes for conservation efforts.

The chick likely died due to yolk sac retention, a condition where bacteria enter the egg or infect the chick after hatching. This is a known issue in poultry but was unexpected here due to strict hygiene protocols. Symptoms, including labored breathing and sneezing appeared shortly before its death.

Photo from the Philippine Eagle Foundation

CHALLENGES IN THE PHILIPPINE EAGLE CONSERVATION

Photo from the Philippine Eagle Foundation

There are only 392 pairs of Philippine Eagles left in the wild, and only 30 have been born in captivity. Eagles are difficult to breed with some attacking potential mates. Each pair requires at least 4,000 hectares of forest, a rapidly vanishing ecosystem in the Philippines.

The Philippine Eagle Foundation’s goal is to release captive eagles into the wild. However, they have not succeeded in this goal in 37 years of operations. The organization continues to refine its breeding and chick-rearing protocols to avoid similar losses in the future.

Here’s the bigger picture; the death of “Chick Number 30” serves as a stark reminder of how fragile endangered species are and underscores the immense difficulties of conserving them. It also highlights the importance of protecting natural habitats and improving breeding programs to ensure the survival of species like the Philippine Eagle.

Photo from the Philippine Eagle Foundation

So the next time you spot an eagle—or even just hear about one—give it a nod of acknowledgement. These species don’t just rule the skies, they embody the fight to preserve what’s wild and wonderful in our world.

Gifts With a Twist: Ways to Exchange Gifts This Christmas

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“The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other” –Bill Vaughan

Photo from Pexels

November is almost over, and you know what that means—drumroll—it’s officially Christmas Season! Tis the season to be jolly, to deck the halls, and to kick off the merriest time of the year.

And, let’s be honest, what’s Christmas without a little gift-giving? Sure, you might pick a random name from a jar, and boom—you’re the lucky gift-giver for someone, with all the suspense of keeping your secret identity hidden until the big reveal. But is that really all there is to it?

Oh no, my friends. We’re just getting started!

This year, why not take the holiday spirit to the next level? Think less “just another sweater” and more “thoughtful, funny, or maybe even mystical gift exchange”—because who says you can’t sprinkle a little mischief into your merry-making?

Picture this: a gift exchange with a twist! Get creative with your wrapping, throw in some riddles, or maybe even deliver your gift in the most unexpected way. Who’s the mysterious Santa behind the mask? Will they figure it out before they open the gift? It’s a challenge, a game, and an adventure all wrapped into one.

So, don’t just settle for the same old gift exchange—let’s make gift-exchanging a memorable experience by adding a little extra fun and creativity to the tradition. With a bit of imagination, the process of giving and receiving gifts can be just as exciting as the presents themselves.

WHITE ELEPHANT

Photo from Pexels

White Elephant is a hilarious and often chaotic holiday party game where participants exchange wrapped gifts in a playful and strategic way. The goal is simple: you never know what you’ll get, and there’s a lot of stealing involved. 

What you need is a wrapped gift; each participant brings one gift (the more quirky or funny, the better!). Make sure the gift you bought is universal—meaning anyone wants the gift or suitable to anyone. For instance, the gift can’t be a T-shirt because everyone has different sizes. What if the shirt ended up with the one who can’t wear it?

How to Play:

  1. Set Up: Everyone gathers in a circle around a pile of wrapped gifts.
  2. The First Player’s Turn: The first player (based on the number drawn) selects a gift from the pile, unwraps it, and shows it to the group.
  3. The Next Player’s Choice: The second player can either:
    • Steal the gift the first player opened, OR
    • Pick a new gift from the pile and unwrap it.
  4. If Your Gift is Stolen: If someone steals your gift, you can either:
    • Pick a new gift from the pile, OR
    • Steal from someone else who hasn’t had their gift stolen yet.
  5. Continue the Game: The game continues with players taking turns to either steal or choose a new gift. You can set a limit on how many times a gift can be stolen (e.g., if a gift is stolen twice, it stays with its final owner).
  6. The Final Round: Once all the gifts have been opened, the game ends, and everyone walks away with a gift (either stolen or newly picked).

WISHLIST

Photo from Pexels

Ready to spice up your gift-giving game? This isn’t your typical Secret Santa—this time, everyone is in the dark. That means you won’t know who you’re buying for, and you won’t know who’s buying for you. It’s a mystery wrapped in a riddle, and it’s here to make holiday gifting a whole lot more exciting.

Gift-giving can be tough—especially when you’re shopping for people you don’t know well, like colleagues. But don’t panic! Wishlist can save the day.

Instructions:

  1. Create Your Wishlist: Each participant makes a list of a few things they’d absolutely love to receive. But here’s the catch—your list goes under a secret code name. That way, no one knows whose list is whose. Let the mystery begin!
  2. Mix it Up: After everyone’s submitted their lists, toss them all into a jar. Mix it up good—this is where the fun begins.
  3. Draw Your Secret Receiver: Pick a random list from the jar. Now you’re on the hook for finding the perfect gift for that person (don’t worry, they’ve already told you exactly what they want!).

This way, everyone gets something they actually want—and you can skip the gift-giving stress! The element of mystery will keep everyone on edge, eagerly awaiting the big reveal. Who’s your secret Santa? And who are you secretly gifting? The suspense will eat you alive… in the best possible way.

CHRISTMAS CAROL HOT POTATO

Photo from Pexels

Get ready to jingle all the way into a hilarious holiday tradition with Christmas Carol Hot Potato! It’s a merry mix of gift exchange, Christmas cheer, and musical madness

In this game, wrapped gifts are passed around while jolly Christmas tunes fill the air. But here’s the twist — when the music suddenly stops, whoever is holding the gift gets to keep it! No sneaky swapping, no “oh, I wanted that one” complaints — just pure holiday fun as you try to outsmart your friends and family.

How to Play

  1. Set the Stage:
    • Lay out all your wrapped gifts in one place where everyone can see them. Gather your crew in a circle, ready to put their festive faces on.
  2. Start the Music:
    • Queue up the Christmas playlist (nothing too slow — we’re talking upbeat carols here, people!). Make sure the volume’s just right — loud enough to get everyone in the holiday spirit, but not so loud it drowns out the laughter.
  3. Pass the Gift:
    • Now, the fun begins! Start passing the first gift around the circle. The goal? Keep it moving to the rhythm of the music. You can pass it fast, slow, or get a little cheeky and try to mess with your friends’ timing. Keep ‘em guessing!
  4. Stop the Music (Uh-oh!):
    • At random intervals (because who doesn’t love a little suspense?), pause the music! BAM! When the music cuts, the person holding the gift is stuck with it. No more passing, no more stealing — they get to keep it, and the crowd goes wild!
  5. Repeat Until All Gifts Are Claimed:
    • Continue playing round after round until all the gifts have been handed out. You might end up with the one you wanted… or the one you didn’t see coming. Either way, everyone wins when the holiday cheer is in full swing!

BOOK SWAP (Only Applies to Book Lovers)

For that group of friends who are so addicted to books they can’t leave the house without one tucked under their arm, it’s time to unlock the mystery of a bookish soirée like no other. This Christmas, shake up your gift-giving routine and host a Mystery Book Exchange? A book swap is a fun way for book lovers to share books and discover new authors and genres.

Picture this: beautifully wrapped books, cryptic clues, and the thrill of unwrapping a story you never saw coming. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to host a gift exchange without the stress of shopping! Now, go grab a book from your shelf you don’t need anymore, and give it to someone who needs it now. It’s okay if you haven’t read it, maybe someone else will love it. Who knows? You might walk away with a hidden gem you never would’ve picked yourself—and isn’t that the best part?

Rules:

  1. Wrap your book: No need for fancy wrapping paper—brown manila paper works just fine. After all, it’s the mystery that counts!
  2. Clue it up: Write a short clue on the package. Could be a vague hint about the book’s genre, a memorable quote, or a teaser about the plot.
  3. Number off: Everyone draws a number to determine the order of selection. When your turn comes, you get to choose a book from the pile. But…
  4. The Steal: You’re allowed to steal a book from someone who’s already picked one.
  5. The Three-Time Rule: A book can only be stolen three times. After that, it’s locked in, and the last person to steal it gets to keep it.
  6. The Grand Reveal: After everyone’s had their turn, it’s time to unwrap your book!

Now, take your pick. Which of these gift-exchanging ideas will bring the most fun to your holiday gathering? Grab your friends, family, and colleagues, and get ready to host the Christmas party everyone will be talking about long after the last gift is unwrapped!