Quick answer
The Christmas tree bingo pattern is a triangle of branches (one square at the top, three on row 2, the full middle row), a trunk at N4, and a three-square stand on the bottom row. It covers 13 squares; the free space is in the widest row of branches, so you need 12 numbers. One card has a 5.4% chance by call 60, and with 500 cards in play the first tree typically comes around call 47.
Which squares make the Christmas tree?
From the top of the card down:
- Treetop: N1
- Upper branches: I2, N2, G2
- Lower branches: B3, I3, free space, G3, O3 (the full middle row)
- Trunk: N4
- Stand: I5, N5, G5
13 squares, 12 numbers. All four N numbers on your card are in the tree, so N calls (31–45) are especially useful. The B and O columns contribute one square each, the tips of the lowest branches.
Christmas tree odds by call
Exact single-card figures:
| Calls made | Chance one card has the tree |
|---|---|
| 40 | 0.02% |
| 50 | 0.46% |
| 60 | 5.4% |
| 70 | 41% |
Half of single cards finish by call 72. In a room, our simulation puts the first tree at about call 55 with 50 cards and call 47 with 500 cards. If the tree is allowed to point any direction (a crazy tree), the 500-card figure drops to about call 43.
Branches, trunk and stand
It helps to see the tree as two parts. The branches (N1, the three squares of row 2 and the full middle row) are an 8-number triangle, since the free space is in the bottom row of branches. The trunk and stand add four more: N4, I5, N5 and G5. If you’ve filled the branches, you’re two-thirds of the way there.
Tips for players
- The N column runs right through it. You need every N number on the card.
- The middle row is a free-space line. Four numbers there and your lowest branches are done.
- Don’t forget the stand. I5 and G5 are easy to miss because they sit away from the rest of the tree.
Tips for callers and hosts
This is the signature game of December sessions, holiday parties and church Christmas fundraisers. At 12 numbers it’s a medium-length game, so many hosts make it the featured prize of a holiday night, with the blackout still saved for last.
A festive session might run: candy cane, star, Christmas tree, then a blackout. Our Christmas bingo cards cover word-based games for family parties.
Variations
- Tree without a stand: 10 squares and 9 numbers.
- Crazy tree: pointing in any direction.
- Pyramid: a simpler triangle. See the pyramid.
Frequently asked questions
What squares make a Christmas tree in bingo?
N1 for the treetop, I2, N2 and G2, the whole middle row, N4 for the trunk and I5, N5 and G5 for the stand.
How many numbers do you need for the Christmas tree pattern?
Twelve. The tree has 13 squares and the free space sits in the middle of the bottom row of branches.
Why do Christmas tree patterns differ between halls?
There's no single official design, so the trunk, stand and branches can be drawn differently and the number of squares changes. Always look at the pattern board.
Keep reading
Pyramid Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The pyramid bingo pattern is a 5-3-1 triangle on the bottom three rows, topped by the free space: 9 squares, 8 numbers. See the layout and exact odds.
Candy Cane Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The candy cane bingo pattern is a long shaft down the O column with a hook curling over the top: 8 squares and 8 numbers. See the layout and exact odds.
Star Bingo Pattern: Rules, Odds & Tips
The star bingo pattern is a five-point star with arms across row 2 and legs to the bottom corners: 13 squares, 12 numbers. See the layout and exact odds.
Free Printable Christmas Bingo Cards (Unique Cards + Calling List)
Free printable Christmas bingo cards with 54 holiday words. Print unique cards for family, classroom or office parties, with a calling list included.