Guides
How to play, where the traditions came from, and ideas for a merrier December.
What is a puzzle advent calendar?
A puzzle advent calendar hides a puzzle behind every door instead of chocolate. Here is where advent calendars came from, what the puzzle kind offers, and how MerryWrap turns it into a game you play one door a day.
Read the guideHow to playHow to play Shikaku (and how the ribbon changes it)
Shikaku rules in plain words, four strategies that solve most boards, and how MerryWrap’s ribbon budget turns a rectangle puzzle into a shape game.
Read the guideIdeasChristmas countdown games the whole house can play
Ten ways to count down to Christmas that are more fun than crossing off dates: a daily puzzle door, a paper chain with dares, a joke-a-day jar, a scavenger hunt calendar and more.
Read the guideIdeasGames to play at Christmas with the family
Christmas games for the whole family that need nothing you do not already have: a two-minute puzzle race, gift-wrap relay, the alphabet carol game, wrapped-present guessing and more.
Read the guideIdeasAdvent calendars for adults that are not chocolate
Advent calendar ideas for grown-ups: puzzles, tea, books, a daily walk, a shared calendar for two, and a free-to-start puzzle calendar app. What each costs and who it suits.
Read the guideSeasonalChristmas in July: what it is and how to celebrate
Where Christmas in July came from (an 1892 opera, a 1930s summer camp, a 1940 film, and Australia’s winter), when it falls, and easy ways to celebrate, including a free 12-door puzzle countdown.
Read the guideReady to play?
Doors 1 to 5 are free. No ads, no account, no subscription.
MerryWrapA puzzle advent calendar you play. One new puzzle behind every door, December 1 to Christmas morning.