As the warm weather approaches, many people start thinking about hosting lawn parties. Whether it's for a birthday celebration, a backyard BBQ, or just a gathering of friends and family, lawn parties are a fun way to spend time outdoors. However, planning a successful lawn party involves more than just food and drinks. One of the most crucial aspects of any lawn party is entertainment, and that means having a wide variety of outdoor party games that people of all ages can enjoy.
To help you plan the ultimate lawn party, we've compiled a list of the 45 best lawn party games for all ages! From classic favorites like croquet and horseshoes to new twists on old favorites like giant Jenga and cup pong, there's something for everyone on this list. So, grab your sunscreen and your favorite lawn chair and get ready to have some fun in the sun!
- Giant Jenga is a popular and exciting outdoor game that involves stacking blocks into a tower and then removing them one by one without knocking the tower over. The game can be played with any number of players, making it perfect for a lawn party or family gathering. The goal of the game is to keep the tower standing while you remove as many blocks as possible, without making it topple over.
To set up the game, start by building a tower using 54 wooden blocks. The blocks should be placed in a crisscross pattern, with each layer of the tower consisting of three blocks placed next to each other, alternating directions. Once the tower is built, players can take turns removing one block at a time from any level of the tower and placing it on the top of the stack, without causing the tower to fall.
The game continues until the tower falls, at which point the player responsible for the collapse is out of the game. The remaining players continue to play until only one person is left standing, or until a predetermined number of rounds have been played. Giant Jenga requires a steady hand and plenty of patience, making it an exciting and challenging party game for all ages.
Ages: 7+
Number of Players: 2+
Equipment Needed: 54 wooden blocks, size of your choosing.
- Cornhole (Bean Bag toss) is a popular lawn game that is played with two boards and eight bean bags. The boards are set up across from each other with a distance of 27 feet between them. The goal of the game is to toss the bean bags into the hole on the board, while preventing your opponent from doing the same.
The game starts with a coin toss to determine who goes first. Players then take turns tossing their bean bags at the opposite board, trying to land them on the board or in the hole. If a bag lands on the board, it is worth one point. If it lands in the hole, it is worth three points. The player with the highest score at the end of the round earns the difference between their score and their opponent's score.
The game continues until one player or team reaches 21 points or more. However, in order to win the game, the player or team must have a lead of at least two points. If the game is tied at 21 points or more, additional rounds are played until one player or team has a lead of two or more points.
Cornhole is a fun and challenging outdoor game that requires skill and strategy. It is a great addition to any lawn party or gathering, and is a suitable adult or kids activities for all skills levels.
Ages: 7+
Number of Players: 2
Equipment Needed: 2 cornhole boards, 6 bean bags.
- 9 Square is a fast-paced game that is played with a group of people, consisting of 9 or more players. The game is played in a 3x3 grid, with each square numbered 1-9. The objective of the game is to get to the middle square by hitting the ball into another player's square and preventing it from landing in your own.
To start the game, one player stands in the center square and serves the ball by hitting it into any other square. The receiving player must hit the ball into another player's square, and the game continues in this manner. The ball must be hit with an open hand and can only be hit once before it must be passed to another player. If a player fails to hit the ball into another player's square or hits the ball out of bounds, they are eliminated and return to the start square or end of the line. Players progress in a spiral pattern to the middle square as players ahead of them are eliminated. For each player eliminated that is not the player in the middle square, the player in the middle square receives a point. Game play ends when any player has 15 points.
Overall, 9 Square is one of many fun and engaging yard games that requires quick reflexes and strategy. It can be played indoors or outdoors and is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels.
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 9+
Equipment Needed: 9 Square Set, ball.
- Ring toss - Ring toss is a classic outdoor game that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. The ring toss game involves players tossing small rings onto a set of pegs or bottles, trying to land the rings around the pegs or bottles. Players take turns tossing the rings, and points are awarded based on where the rings land. Ring toss is a fun and challenging game that requires skill, accuracy, and patience.
Ages: 5+
Number of Players: 1+
Equipment Needed: 10 bottles, 10 rings.
- Horseshoes - Horseshoes is a classic yard game that has been played for centuries. The game involves throwing horseshoes at a metal stake, with the goal of getting the horseshoe to wrap around the stake or land as close to it as possible. Players take turns throwing the horseshoes, and points are awarded based on how close the horseshoe lands to the stake.
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 2
Equipment Needed: 2 metal stakes, 6 horseshoes.
- Frisbee Golf, also known as Disc Golf, is a highly engaging and one of the best outdoor games that combines the ease of Frisbee with the rules of golf. Ideal for players of all ages, this game is played with a frisbee, aiming to land it in a series of baskets set up over a course, typically in as few throws as possible.
To play, set up a course with a series of 'holes', which are usually metal baskets or designated targets. Players take turns throwing their frisbee from a tee area, aiming to get it into the basket in the fewest number of throws. Each throw from where the frisbee lands counts as a stroke, and the player with the lowest score at the end of the course wins.
Frisbee Golf is not only a great way to enjoy the outdoors but also a fantastic opportunity to hone throwing skills and strategy. It's perfect for backyard fun or even more serious competitive play in parks or dedicated disc golf courses.
Ages: 6+ Number of Players: 2+ Equipment Needed: Frisbees, disc golf baskets (or improvised targets).
- Spikeball is an exciting and fast-paced outdoor game that is played with a circular net and a small ball. The game is played in teams of two, with each team trying to score points by bouncing the ball off the net and making it difficult for their opponents to return it.
To start the game, the net is set up on a flat surface, with each team standing on opposite sides of the net. The ball is then placed in the center of the net, and the game begins with a serve. The serving team hits the ball off the net towards their opponents, who must return it by hitting it back onto the net within three touches. The ball can be hit in any direction, but must hit the net before it bounces on the ground.
If a team is unable to return the ball within three touches, the opposing team scores a point. The game continues until one team reaches 21 points or more, and has a lead of at least two points. If the game is tied at 21 points or more, additional rounds are played until one team has a lead of two or more points.
Spikeball is a fun and exciting game that requires speed, agility, and coordination. It is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels, and can be played in a variety of outdoor settings.
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 2-4
Equipment Needed: 1 Spikeball set, 1 small ball.
- Gaga Ball is a popular game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. It is typically played in an enclosed arena, such as a pit or a court, with several players at a time. The objective of the game is to be the last player standing by avoiding getting hit by the ball and hitting others with the ball to eliminate them from the game.
To start a game of Gaga ball, players typically stand inside the pit or court, and one player throws the ball into the air. Once the ball hits the ground, the game begins. Players can hit the ball with their hands, but they must keep both feet on the ground at all times. If a player is hit by the ball, they are eliminated from the game, and the game continues until only one player remains.
There are several rules that must be followed when playing Gaga ball. Firstly, players cannot catch or hold the ball. Instead, they must hit it with their hands. Secondly, players cannot hit the ball twice in a row, and they cannot hit the ball out of the pit or court. Finally, players must avoid hitting other players above the waist, as this can be dangerous.
Overall, Gaga ball is a fun and exciting physical activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
Ages: 5+
Number of Players: 3-20
Equipment Needed: Gaga ball pit, rubber ball.
- Bocce Ball - Bocce ball is a traditional lawn game that originated in Italy and has been enjoyed for centuries by people of all ages. The game is played with two teams of one to four players each, with the goal of rolling or throwing large, colored balls as close as possible to a smaller white ball called the "pallino." Players take turns trying to land their balls closest to the pallino, and points are awarded for each ball that is closer to the target than the other team's balls. Bocce ball is a fun and competitive game that can be played almost anywhere with a flat surface, making it a popular choice for outdoor gatherings and events.
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 4
Equipment Needed: 1 small ball, 1 larger ball per player.
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Lawn Darts, a classic outdoor game, brings an exciting twist to traditional darts. Suitable for families and friends, this game involves tossing weighted darts onto a target laid out on the lawn, combining skill and fun in a safe outdoor setting.
Each player or team takes turns throwing darts towards a circular target typically laid out on the grass. Points are scored depending on where the dart lands within the target area, with the bullseye yielding the highest score. The game can be played in various formats, either to a set point limit or within a certain number of rounds.
Safety is paramount in Lawn Darts, and modern versions of the game use rounded tips to ensure a fun and injury-free experience. This game is perfect for backyard gatherings, picnics, and family reunions, offering a blend of gentle competition and skillful play.
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 2-4
Equipment Needed: Lawn darts set (with safety tips), target mat.
- Giant Tic Tac Toe - Giant tic tac toe is a larger-than-life version of the classic board game that has been entertaining people for generations. The game is played on a large grid that is drawn on a flat surface, such as a lawn or driveway, using chalk, paint, or tape. Two players take turns placing giant X and O pieces on the squares of the grid in an attempt to get three in a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Giant tic tac toe is a fun and simple game that can be enjoyed by all ages, making it a great choice for outdoor parties, family gatherings, and other social events.
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 2
Equipment Needed: Driveway, chalk.
- Glow in the Dark Capture the Flag - Glow in the dark capture the flag is a fun and exciting twist on the classic outdoor game. The game is played at night and each player wears a glow stick to help them see in the dark. The objective is to capture the other team's flag while avoiding being tagged by the opposing team.
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 6+
Equipment Needed: 2 flags, 1 glow stick bracelet per player.
- Water Balloon Toss - A water balloon toss is a fun and refreshing outdoor party game that is perfect for hot summer days. This party game involves two or more players standing a short distance apart and tossing a water balloon back and forth. The objective is to catch the balloon without breaking it, and then toss it back to the other player. With each successful catch, the players take a step further away from each other, making the toss more challenging. The game continues until the balloon breaks, and the last team standing wins.
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 4+
Equipment Needed: 1 water balloon per team.
- Slip 'N Slide - DIY slip n slide is a fun game and exciting way to beat the heat and create some summer memories with friends and family. To create a slip n slide, a large plastic sheet is laid out on a slope, and water is sprayed on it to create a slippery surface. Participants then run and slide along the length of the slide, enjoying the thrill of the ride and the refreshing coolness of the water. DIY slip n slide is easy and inexpensive to set up, making it a popular choice for backyard parties, picnics, and other outdoor gatherings.
Ages: 5+
Number of Players: 1+
Equipment Needed: Long plastic sheet, water, soap (optional).
- Charades is an all-time favorite party game that sparks creativity and laughter. Perfect for people of all ages, this game involves players acting out words or phrases without speaking, while others guess what is being portrayed.
The game starts with players dividing into teams. One player from a team picks a word or phrase, secretly shown to them, and then acts it out without speaking or mouthing the words. The team has a limited time, usually a few minutes, to guess the word or phrase. Points are awarded for correct guesses, and the team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Charades is an excellent game for stimulating imagination and can be played with any number of people. It's a great icebreaker and can be tailored to fit themes or difficulty levels suitable for children and adults alike.
Ages: 4+
Number of Players: 4+ (2 teams)
Equipment Needed: Slips of paper with words/phrases, timer.
- Three-Legged Race - A three-legged race is a classic outdoor game that has been played for generations. The game involves two people standing side-by-side and tying one of their legs to their partner's leg, creating a three-legged race team. The teams then race against each other to the finish line, hopping and balancing together with their tied legs. The game requires teamwork, coordination, and balance, making it a fun and challenging activity for all ages. Three-legged races are a popular choice for field days, picnics, and other outdoor events.
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 4+
Equipment Needed: 1 piece of rope per team.
- Egg and Spoon Race - The egg and spoon race is a classic game and perfect for a birthday party. It is a simple yet entertaining activity for a party guest of any age.
The game involves participants racing to the finish line while carrying an egg on a spoon. The objective is to be the first person to cross the finish line without dropping the egg. If the egg falls off the spoon, the player must stop, retrieve the egg, and return to the starting line to begin again.
The game can be played individually or as part of a team relay race. In a relay race, team members take a turns carrying the egg and passing it off to the next team member. The first team to complete the race without dropping the egg wins.
Ages: 7+
Number of Players: 3+
Equipment Needed: 1 egg and spoon per participant or team.
- Sack Race - A sack race is one of many classic lawn games that are perfect for family fun and outdoor gatherings. It involves hopping inside a large sack or pillowcase and racing to the finish line. The first person to cross the finish line wins. Kids love this game because it's a fun and silly way to get active and competitive with their friends and family. Sack races are a popular addition to many outdoor events and are a great way to bring people together and get everyone moving.
Ages: 7+
Number of Players: 3+
Equipment Needed: 1 sack per person.
- Tug of War - Tug of war is arguably the best lawn game, and has been almost every kid to step foot in their backyard. It is widely considered to be one of the outdoor games because it is simple, easy to set up, and incredibly fun. The game involves two teams pulling on opposite ends of a rope, trying to force the other team over a designated line.
Ages: 7+
Number of Players: 6+
Equipment Needed: 1 large, long rope.
- Dice Games - A dice game is a great alternative to video games and a fun way to pass the time with friends and family. There are countless dice games to choose from, with varying levels of complexity and strategy. Some popular dice games include Yahtzee, Farkle, and Bunco. The rules of these games typically involve rolling dice and trying to achieve certain combinations or patterns to score points. Dice games are easy to learn and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 2+
Equipment Needed: 2+ dice
- A DIY obstacle course is a fun and creative way to get active and challenge yourself. Creating your own obstacle course can be as simple or complex as you want it to be, depending on your skill level and available materials. Some popular obstacles include jumping over hurdles, crawling through tunnels, balancing on beams, and climbing over walls. The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing your own course, and the only limit is your imagination.
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 2+
Equipment Needed: Whatever your heart desires.
- Limbo - Limbo is a fun outdoor game that has been enjoyed for generations as one of the most popular backyard games. It involves players taking turns bending backward to go under a bar while keeping their feet together. The bar is lowered after each round, and players must continue to limbo under the bar without touching it or falling. Little ones can participate in this fun game as well, as the bar can be adjusted to suit their height. Limbo is a great way to get everyone moving and laughing, and it is perfect for any backyard party.
Ages: 5+
Number of Players: 3+
Equipment Needed: 1 long rope or pole.
- Cup pong, also known as beer pong, is a classic party game that involves tossing a ping pong ball into a cup of beer or water and is perfect for older kids. The game is typically played with two teams of two players each, who stand on opposite sides of a long table. Each team takes turns trying to land the ball in the opposing team's cups. If a ball lands in a cup, the opposing team must drink the contents of the cup, and the cup is removed from play. The first team to eliminate all of the other team's cups wins.
Ages: 12+
Number of Players: 2
Equipment Needed: 1 ping pong ball or equivalent, 20 plastic cups.
- Giant Checkers is a game that is played on a large board with oversize game pieces. The objective of the game is to capture all of your opponent's pieces or block them from being able to move. To start the game, the board is set up with the pieces placed on their respective starting squares. Players take turns moving their pieces diagonally one space at a time, jumping over their opponent's pieces to capture them. The game ends when one player captures all of their opponent's pieces or blocks them from being able to move. The player with the most pieces remaining on the board at the end of the game is the winner.
Ages: 10+
Number of Players: 2
Equipment Needed: 1 giant board and 24 checkers, split into two colors.
- Giant Pick Up Sticks is a game that is played with a set of oversized sticks. The objective of the game is to remove as many sticks from the pile as possible without disturbing the other sticks. To start the game, the sticks are placed in a loose pile on the ground. Players take turns trying to remove a stick from the pile without moving any of the other sticks. If a player successfully removes a stick, they get to keep it. The game ends when all of the sticks have been removed from the pile, and the player with the most sticks at the end of the game is the winner.
Ages: 7+
Number of Players: 2+
Equipment Needed: Giant pick up sticks.
- Pool Noodle Croquet is a fantastic and affordable backyard activity that can liven up any lawn party. It involves creating an enlarged version of the classic summer game by staking pool noodle arches into the ground using wooden dowels. To add an extra challenge, make sure the arch is tall enough for an inflated beach ball to pass under. For the game, each child can be provided with a pool noodle and their objective is to pass the ball through the arches as fast as possible. This fun and entertaining game is sure to keep kids engaged and excited at any lawn party.
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 2+
Equipment Needed: 1 beach ball, as many pool noodles as desired for wickets, 1 pool noodle per player.
- Red Light, Green Light - A classic game that involves racing while following commands from a leader.
- Giant Connect Four - A giant version of the popular board game that's perfect for outdoor play.
- Frisbee Golf - Throw frisbees into baskets in as few throws as possible.
- Karaoke - Sing songs with lyrics displayed on a screen
- Badminton - Hit a shuttlecock over a net without it touching the ground.
- Lawn Darts - Toss darts onto a target for points.
- Sponge Relay - Pass a sponge full of water to the end of the line.
- Simon Says - Follow the leader's commands only if they start with “Simon says.”
- Name That Tune - Guess the song from a short clip of music.
- Mother May I - Ask the leader for permission to move forward.
- Kickball - Kick a ball and run the bases to score points.
- Tag - Touch someone to make them “it.”
- Freeze Tag - Freeze when tagged until someone unfreezes you.
- Duck, Duck, Goose - Tap someone's head and run around the circle to avoid being caught.
- Musical Chairs - Walk around chairs and sit down when the music stops.
- Scavenger Hunt - Find items on a list within a set time frame.
- Treasure Hunt - Find clues that lead to a hidden treasure.
- Charades - Act out a word or phrase without speaking.
- Pictionary - Draw a picture and have others guess what it is.
