Bingo is played in different countries, each adding a unique twist to the traditional calls to announce the numbers.
While many of these calls originated in the United Kingdom, they have been adapted to suit the cultures and tastes of other regions. Here are some notable Bingo calls, along with their numbers that you can find within Bingo halls and occasionally when playing Bingo Slots online.
UK Bingo calls
The UK has a well-known set of Bingo calls, many still widely used today. Here are some of the classics:
One Little Duck – is a call for number two. This is a reference to the shape of the number two, which resembles a duck.
Cup of Tea – is a call for number three, a nod to the UK’s love for tea.
Doctor’s Orders are a call for number nine. They were originally referring to a laxative prescribed to soldiers during wartime.
For higher numbers, calls like Two Little Ducks (22), Droopy Drawers (44), and Top of the Shop (90) have also become fixtures in British Bingo culture.
Australian Bingo calls
In Australia, some unique phrases give a local flavour to Bingo calls:
Kangaroo’s Legs – is a call for number 11. The number 11 resembles a kangaroo’s legs in motion.
Fair Dinkum – is a call for number 18. This reflects the Australian expression, which means honest or genuine.
Two-up Time is a call for number 22. It refers to the popular Australian game Two-up, in which two coins are tossed.
These localised phrases bring a distinctively Australian tone to the game, which, much like the British version, connects with everyday life and national culture.
American Bingo Calls
In the United States, Bingo is often played with a straightforward approach, with fewer traditional calls. However, some clubs and regions have created unique American calls, particularly in states with a strong Bingo culture, such as Nevada:
Sweet Sixteen – is a call for number 16. This refers to the American tradition of celebrating the 16th birthday.
Flag Day – is a call for number 50. A nod to the national holiday.
Although the calls are generally less established in the US, some regional variations exist, with casinos or Bingo halls occasionally adding local or cultural references to enhance gameplay theatrics.
Canadian Bingo calls
Bingo is popular in Canada, especially in provinces like Ontario and Quebec. While Canada doesn’t have as many unique calls as the UK, some variations have emerged:
Loonie – is a call for number one. This is named after the Canadian one-dollar coin, which features a loon bird.
Mountie’s Orders – is a call for number nine. A nod to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Hockey Sticks – is a call for number 11. This refers to the number’s resemblance to hockey sticks, reflecting Canada’s love for the sport.
Irish Bingo calls
Ireland’s Bingo calls include many references to Irish culture and symbols:
The luck of the Irish – is a call for the number seven, which is seen as a ‘lucky’ number to those who are superstitious in Ireland.
Shamrock – is a call for number 17. The number 17 often represents St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on the 17th of March, with a shamrock often being associated with this day.
Blarney Stone – is a call for number 30 and refers to the legendary stone that grants the gift of gab.
These calls serve as a reminder of Ireland’s vibrant culture and national pride.
