The evenings of Pongal are always filled with laughter as playing games become an integral part of these celebrations. Some of the traditional games played during the festival include: Jallikattu Vazhukku Maram (Slippery Pole) Uri adithal Manju Viratu Silambam

Jallikattu (a game involving bulls), vazhukku maram (slippery pole), mallar kambam (a mix of gymnastics and yoga), Uri Adithal (breaking a hanging mud pot, blindfolded), and Kabaddi (a team sport).

Games played in the evening include shows and performances of folk dance forms such as puli vesham, karagam, and oyilattam, according to Chithiraiveethikaran Sundar, who has written Thiruvizhakkalin Thalainagaram, a book on festivals in Tamil Nadu.