Human Bingo
Interactive Ice Breaker for Large Groups
Game Overview.
Participants receive bingo cards with different characteristics or experiences. They must find people who match each square and get their signatures. First to complete a row wins!
Objectives
- ✓Encourage participants to mingle and talk to multiple people
- ✓Discover common interests and unique experiences
- ✓Create energy and movement in the room
- ✓Break down barriers between strangers
What You'll Need
- •Pre-printed bingo cards (unique for each participant)
- •Pens or markers
- •Optional: Small prizes for winners
Preparation
- 1Create bingo cards with 16-25 squares (4x4 or 5x5 grid)
- 2Fill squares with diverse characteristics (e.g., "Has traveled to Asia", "Plays a musical instrument", "Has a pet bird")
- 3Print enough cards for all participants
- 4Prepare a prize for the winner (optional)
How to Play
STEP 1
Distribute Cards
Give each participant a bingo card and a pen. Ensure cards are mixed so people have different combinations.
STEP 2
Explain the Rules
Participants must find people who match the descriptions in each square. When they find a match, that person signs the square. One person can only sign your card once.
STEP 3
Start Mingling
Set a timer (usually 10-15 minutes) and let participants mingle. Encourage everyone to move around and talk to people they don't know well.
STEP 4
Call Bingo
When someone completes a row (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal), they shout "Bingo!" Check their card to verify all signatures are valid.
STEP 5
Share Discoveries
Have the winner (and others if time allows) share interesting things they learned about their colleagues.
Pro Tips
- Include a mix of common and unique characteristics
- Make sure characteristics are appropriate for your group
- For virtual adaptation, use digital tools like Google Forms or Miro boards
- Consider having multiple rounds with different themes
- Encourage people to have brief conversations, not just collect signatures
Variations
Blackout Bingo
Instead of just one row, participants must fill the entire card. Great for longer sessions.
Themed Bingo
Create cards focused on specific topics like hobbies, travel experiences, or professional skills.
Virtual Bingo
Use breakout rooms and digital bingo cards. Participants screenshot or mark their digital cards as they find matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many unique bingo cards should I create?
For best results, create at least as many unique cards as you have participants. This ensures everyone has a different experience.
What if someone can't find matches for certain squares?
Make sure your characteristics are diverse enough that most squares can be matched. If needed, allow "free" squares or extend the time limit.
Can this work for a virtual team?
Yes! Share digital bingo cards before the meeting and use breakout rooms for mingling. Participants can mark their cards digitally or on printouts.
Tags
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