Looking for a fast-paced baby shower game that gets everyone laughing? Try Baby Name Race.
It’s a quick-thinking challenge where players race to list baby names from A to Z.
No setup stress, no awkward rules—just simple, lighthearted fun.
It’s easy to play, great for all ages, and always a crowd favorite.
What Is Baby Name Race?
Baby Name Race is a fun, fast-paced game where players try to come up with a baby name for each letter of the alphabet, from A to Z.
The goal is to fill in all 26 letters with real names as quickly as possible, making it both a test of speed and creativity.
It’s a popular pick for baby showers because it’s easy to understand and gets everyone involved right away.
While it’s competitive, the tone stays light and playful, which makes it perfect for mixed groups of friends, family, and guests who may not know each other well.
The race against the clock adds excitement, but the real fun comes from seeing the names people come up with—some are classic, others are downright hilarious!
What You Need
To play Baby Name Race, here’s what you’ll need:
- Printable Baby Name Race sheets – These include the alphabet with space to write a name for each letter.
- Blank paper (optional) – Works as a substitute if you don’t have pre-made sheets.
- Pens or pencils – One for each player.
- Timer (optional) – Adds excitement and helps keep the game on track. A phone or stopwatch works fine.
Optional extras to make it more fun:
- Small prizes – Reward the winner with something simple like candy, candles, or a gift card.
- Themed printables – Match your baby shower’s theme (boy, girl, or neutral) with customized sheets.
How to Set It Up
Distribute the Game Sheets and Writing Tools
Hand out a Baby Name Race sheet or blank paper to each player, along with a pen or pencil.
Make sure everyone has enough space to write comfortably.
If you’re using themed printables, this is the time to pass those out too.
Set a Clear Time Limit
Decide on a time limit before the game begins.
Two to five minutes is typical—short enough to keep things exciting, but long enough to give everyone a fair shot.
Use a timer on your phone or a kitchen timer to keep things consistent.
Explain the Rules
Before you start, make sure all players understand how the game works.
Tell them they need to write one baby name for each letter of the alphabet, starting with A and ending with Z.
Clarify whether the names should be boy, girl, or gender-neutral.
Once everyone is clear, start the timer and begin the race.
Game Rules
Write One Name for Each Letter
Each player’s goal is to come up with a baby name for every letter of the alphabet, starting with A and ending with Z.
That’s a total of 26 names.
Names should be written next to the corresponding letter on the game sheet or paper.
Stick to One Name per Letter
Players can only write one name per letter. No doubling up or listing multiple options.
If a player skips a letter, they can go back to it if time allows—but only one name will count for each letter.
Use Real Names
Unless stated otherwise, all entries must be actual baby names. Made-up words or random combinations of letters don’t count.
If you want to make the game a bit sillier, you can allow fictional names, but be sure to set that rule before the game begins.
Choose a Name Category (Optional)
To add variety or challenge, you can set a category for the names.
For example, players can be asked to list only girl names, only boy names, or stick to gender-neutral names.
You can also let them choose freely, as long as each name is real and starts with the correct letter.
Make sure the category is clear to everyone before the timer starts.
How to Win
To win Baby Name Race, the standard rule is simple: the player who writes the most names within the time limit wins.
Each name must begin with a different letter of the alphabet and follow any category rules you’ve set, such as boy names only or gender-neutral options.
If multiple players fill out the same number of names, you can add a twist by scoring based on uniqueness—names that no one else wrote get bonus points.
This adds an extra challenge and rewards creativity.
In case of a tie, consider using a quick bonus round where players must list names starting with one specific letter, or let a designated judge pick the most creative or fun name from each tied sheet.
This keeps the energy up and the game fair, even if there’s no clear winner right away.
Fun Variations
Team Version
Instead of playing solo, divide guests into small teams of two or three.
Each team works together to fill out the list, combining their ideas and speeding up the process.
This is a great option for larger groups or when not everyone is confident playing on their own.
It also helps break the ice and encourages teamwork.
Theme-Based Race
Add a creative challenge by choosing a theme for the names.
For example, require players to list only celebrity baby names, royal names, or vintage names from decades past.
You could also go with TV character names or names from a specific culture.
Just be sure to explain the theme clearly before starting the timer.
Reverse Race
Flip the format by starting at Z and working backward to A.
It’s a small change that forces players to think differently and can make the game feel fresh, even for those who’ve played before.
This twist also adds a layer of difficulty, especially for the less common letters.
Timed Elimination
Turn up the intensity by removing the last person to finish a name for each letter.
For example, after announcing “Letter A,” whoever finishes last (or doesn’t finish at all) is out.
Then move to the next letter with the remaining players. Continue until only one player is left.
This version works best with smaller groups and adds a fun game-show style vibe.
Tips for Success
Think Fast, Don’t Overthink
Speed is everything in Baby Name Race. The more time you spend stuck on one letter, the fewer names you’ll finish overall.
If you can’t think of a unique or clever name right away, just write the first one that comes to mind and move on.
You can always go back if there’s extra time at the end.
Use Common Names
Don’t waste time trying to be overly original. Simple, popular names like Ava, Ben, Chloe, or David will help you move quickly through the alphabet.
These familiar options are easier to recall under pressure and keep you from getting stuck.
Brush Up Beforehand
If you want a competitive edge, glance through a list of baby names before the event.
Focus especially on tricky letters like Q, X, and Z. Having a few names in mind can save precious seconds and help you fill out the full list more confidently.
Even a quick review can make a big difference during the game.
Why It’s a Hit at Baby Showers
Encourages Laughs, Chatter, and Friendly Competition
Baby Name Race creates instant energy in the room.
The fast-paced format leads to funny name choices, surprising answers, and lots of laughter.
Guests enjoy comparing their answers and seeing which names others came up with.
It’s competitive, but in a lighthearted way that keeps the mood fun and upbeat.
Easy for Anyone to Participate
There’s no prep or special skills required to play. All you need is a pen and a few minutes.
It’s suitable for every age group, from teens to grandparents, and works well whether someone is super outgoing or a bit shy.
The simplicity makes it an ideal icebreaker activity.
Helps Guests Bond
Even if people don’t know each other well, this game gives them something to talk about.
Sharing names, comparing answers, and cheering each other on creates a relaxed, social vibe.
It’s a great way to help guests connect and feel part of the celebration, especially in mixed groups of friends, family, and coworkers.
Conclusion
Baby Name Race is simple, quick to set up, and always fun.
It’s a great way to get guests talking and laughing at any baby shower or family gathering.
Try it at your next event—you only need paper, pens, and a timer!
Enjoy!
