How to Play Pass the Parcel (Princess Birthday Party Game for Kids)
- Mar 10
- 3 min read
Pass the Parcel is one of the most loved kids birthday party games, and this pink princess edition adds a magical twist. With fun stop-and-go music built in, children simply pass the parcel while the music plays and unwrap a layer when the music stops.
This classic game works brilliantly for birthday parties, classrooms, playdates, PE lessons, and family games night.
The best part? This version is a press play & join in game, meaning adults don’t need to control the music. The game runs itself.
Watch the Princess Pass the Parcel Game
Children simply pass the parcel while the music plays. When the music stops… unwrap a layer!
What You Need to Play Pass the Parcel
To set up the game you only need a few simple things:
• A wrapped parcel with several layers
• Small prizes or sweets between layers (optional)
• Space for children to sit in a circle
• Music with stops (like the video above)
Princess party ideas:
👑 Pink wrapping paper
👑 Glitter ribbon
👑 Princess stickers between layers
👑 Small sweets or mini toys
Place a special prize in the centre for the final winner.
How to Play Pass the Parcel (Step-by-Step)
1️⃣ Sit players in a circle.
2️⃣ Place the parcel in one child’s hands.
3️⃣ Press play on the Pass the Parcel music.
4️⃣ Children pass the parcel around the circle while the music plays.
5️⃣ When the music stops, the child holding the parcel unwraps one layer.
6️⃣ Continue passing the parcel when the music starts again.
7️⃣ The child who unwraps the final layer wins the prize.
Because the music stops automatically, this game is easy for children to follow and keeps everyone engaged.
Princess Party Game Ideas
You can add a magical twist to the game with a few simple ideas.
✨ Ask children to strike a royal princess pose before passing the parcel
✨ Include princess stickers between layers
✨ Add silly challenges such as “spin like a princess”
✨ Give the final winner a sparkly crown
These little extras make the game feel like a special princess party activity.
Pass the Parcel Game Variations
Different age groups enjoy slightly different versions of the game.
Non-Elimination Version (Best for Ages 3–6)
Everyone stays in the game until the end.
Each layer may include:
• sweets
• stickers
• small toys
Elimination Version (Older Children)
When the music stops on you, you leave the circle. The last player remaining wins the prize.
Why Kids Love Pass the Parcel
Pass the Parcel remains one of the most popular kids party games because it combines:
🎶 music
🎁 surprise prizes
🎉 excitement
Children stay engaged because anyone could unwrap the next layer.
Perfect For
This Pass the Parcel music game works well for:
✔ Birthday parties
✔ Classrooms and nurseries
✔ PE or movement breaks
✔ Rainy day play
✔ Family games night
It’s a simple game that works for ages 3–8 and can be played almost anywhere.
More Press & Play Kids Party Games
If you're planning a party, try these games too:
▶ Press & Play Kids Party Games
▶ Pass the Parcel Playlist
Free Party Game Printables
You can find free rules, action ideas and themed printables here:
These resources make it easy to run party games with minimal preparation.
Final Tip for Party Hosts
If you're planning a children’s party, it helps to have 2–3 games ready to keep the energy flowing.
Pass the Parcel is a perfect starting game because it:
✔ gathers children into a circle
✔ builds excitement
✔ is easy to understand
✔ works for mixed ages
Simply press play and let the music run the game.
