It was only two years ago that I learned the Hallmark Store had video game themed ornaments. Not just any gaming ornaments, though. Official Nintendo ones! Before you go telling me it's a little too early to think about Christmas and the holidays, 1) we're living through a pandemic, so let me have a little joy in something silly and 2) more importantly, these ornaments are sometimes sold in limited quantities so it's easy to miss out if you aren't paying attention.
Keep reading below for links, descriptions and release dates. (And then start setting aside a few bucks here and there so future you will be thankful!)
Recall hours spent sitting in your bean bag chair parked in front of the television, video game controller in hand. Nothing mattered except defeating Bowser and ultimately completing the entire "Super Mario Bros." game. Relive the care-free fun when you display this classic Nintendo Entertainment System console Christmas tree ornament that lights up and plays the familiar music and sounds of the iconic video game (battery-operated).
$19.99, Available July 11, 2020
When did you first experience the kingdom of Hyrule? For many, the adventure began shortly after the U.S. release of "The Legend of Zelda" in 1987. Bask in the memories of days spent playing the classic game with this metal Christmas tree ornament that resembles the shiny game cartridge for the original Nintendo Entertainment System.
$19.99, Available October 3, 2020
Power up the holiday fun with Mario! Dimensional pixelated 8-bit styling brings the classic "Super Mario Bros." video game to life on your tree with this miniature (0.77") Christmas ornament featuring the Nintendo legend whose adventures in Mushroom Kingdom have captivated gamers of all ages for decades.
$8.99, Available October 3, 2020
It's game on with Luigi! Dimensional pixelated 8-bit styling brings the classic "Super Mario Bros." video game to life on your tree with this miniature (0.77") Christmas ornament featuring the Nintendo legend whose adventures in Mushroom Kingdom—alongside his brother Mario—have captivated gamers of all ages for decades.
$8.99, Available October 3, 2020
It's game on with Donkey Kong! Featuring the Nintendo video game legend sporting pixelated 8-bit styling, this Christmas tree ornament packs a mighty punch of barrel-busting fun that fans of all ages will love.
$15.99, Available October 3, 2020
Note: This Donkey Kong ornament has been marked "limited quantity." When I bought the limited ornament for 2019, I was only allowed to purchase one at the store. You'll probably only be able to purchase one or two on the website, so this is the one you don't want to miss!
Race into holiday excitement with Yoshi. Gamers of all ages will feel like they're leading the pack when they receive this Christmas tree ornament. The fun design features Yoshi at the wheel of his go-kart from the racing video game that has been a go-to source of fun for more than two decades.
$17.99, Available July 11, 2020
Electrify your holiday decor when you display this Pikachu Christmas tree ornament. A fan-favorite character, this red-cheeked Pokémon from the popular anime series is sure to spark some cheer for fans of all ages.
$15.99, Available October 3, 2020
So there you have it! Add July 11 and October 3 to your calendars so you don't miss the ornament(s) you wish to buy. Yes, Keepsake ornaments are pricey, especially once you begin buying multiple ornaments. But they're great quality and I don't think you'll be disappointed. If you have a Hallmark Store near you, you should be able to check them out in person.
If you're looking for a little inspiration, including all of my video game ornaments, check out some of my geeky holiday themed items here.
Links, ornament descriptions, images and details are all courtesy of Hallmark.