27 Fun Outdoor Party Games to Keep Things Exciting

You might want to grab a pen and paper to jot down some great game ideas for the next barbecue at your house! And this isn’t just any party theme – it’s an outdoor party with a bunch of backyard game, full of playing cornhole and other games for all. Adults and kids alike will be ready to play some classics or maybe something new that you come up with.

We normally include a lot of the classics like corn hole, tetherball, bocce ball and playing with golf balls in the backyard but tetherball and bocce ball are pretty common. Don’t let me get started on cornhole. I love corn hole We will talk about some of the other creative games available and not just about tetherball. Maybe we should create a toe game.

But no matter what, this outdoor party is sure to be a blast. So get the drinks and snacks ready, and prepare yourself for a day (or night) of good old-fashioned fun with these game ideas. Whether it’s an outdoor birthday party idea or just a fun party theme, make sure to have plenty of entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re hosting a summer birthday party, a barbecue, or just a get-together with friends, cornhole and fire pit are great games to keep everyone entertained. And, since they’re played outdoors, they’re perfect for warm weather or early Fall gatherings.

Keep reading as we have put on a number of summer parties with games and a fire pit to keep everyone playing and having much fun, ensuring they stay until the end of the next barbecue. We also have photos of the events to capture the memories, including shots of kids enjoying the festivities.

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Check out our article Outdoor Games Guide

Key Takeaways:

• Playing games with kids in the yard is a great way to get everyone involved in the fun. Pool noodles can add an extra element of excitement to these games. Your kid will enjoy playing with pool noodles
• There are a variety of games that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including playing in the yard with kids and using pool noodles.
• Lawn darts, horseshoes, washer toss game, and pool noodles are just a few of the classic games that kids can enjoy playing in the yard at any event. Washer toss game is a blast. Washer toss is a combination of washer toss and possibly tic tac toe. But tic tac toe is great too.
• For a twist, try an outdoor playful course or giant Jenga set to really get the party started with yard games and backyard games!

What Are Some Typical Occasions for an Outdoor Party Game Ideas?

• – Birthdays
• – Barbecues
• – Pool Outdoor Parties
• – Graduations
• – Reunions
• – Weddings
• – Family reunions
• – Sports Or Ball Game Event tailgating

Outdoor Party Games Ideas For Any Occasion

If you’re looking for some games to play with kids, try checking out this list for backyard birthday party idea. Don’t forget to read reviews before making a decision.

1. Water Balloon Toss

This classic card simple game is a great way for kids to cool off on a hot day. All you need to play this fun outdoor game is a bunch of water balloons and two teams of equal size.

The game for a backyard birthday party idea is to play with water balloons. The outdoor birthday party idea involves throwing the balloon back and forth between team members without dropping it. If you drop the balloon, your team is out. The last team standing wins!

2. Egg Toss

This game is a great backyard birthday party idea or outdoor birthday party idea. It’s similar to the water balloon toss, but instead of using water balloons, you use raw eggs. The object of the game is to throw the egg back and forth between team members without breaking it. If you break the egg, your team is out. The last team standing wins!

3. Sack Race

This game is perfect for all ages and is sure to be a hit at your next party. All you need are a few sacks (or pillowcases) and some open space. Line up the players at the start line and have them hop their way to the finish line. The first person to cross the finish line wins!

4. Balloon Pop

This backyard birthday party idea is perfect for smaller kids. All you need is a bunch of balloons and a sharp object (a pen or a needle will work). The object of the game is to pop as many balloons as possible. The child with the most popped balloons at the end of the allotted time wins!

5. Treasure Hunt

This treasure hunt backyard birthday party idea is perfect for kids and adults alike. Hide a bunch of small prizes around your outdoor space and give each child a list of items to find. The first child to find all the items on their list wins!

6. Scavenger Hunt

Similar to the game treasure hunt, but instead of hiding specific items, you hide a list of items that players have to find. The first person to find all the items on the list at the fun game wins! Perfect for a pool or birthday party.

7. Hula Hoop Contest

This Hoops game is a simple and fun activity for kids at a pool birthday party. All you need are hula rings and some open space. The object of the game is to see how long one can keep the hoop around their waist without it falling to the ground. The person who can keep the hula hoops up the longest wins!

8. Limbo

This classic party game is always a hit with kids. All you need is a limbo stick and some music. The object of the game is to see how low you can go without touching the ground. The person who can limbo the lowest without touching the ground wins! Make sure to read reviews before purchasing a limbo stick for your pool party.

9. Three-Legged Race

This classic three legged race is always a lot of fun, especially for kids at a birthday party. All you need is one partner and a long piece of fabric or rope. The object of the game is to tie your legs together and races to the finish line without falling in the pool. The first team of kids to cross the finish line wins!

10. Tug-of-War

This classic game is a great way to get kids involved at a pool birthday party. All you need is a rope and two teams of equal size. The object of the game is to see who can pull the other team across the line. Make sure to read reviews before choosing the rope for this activity. The team that crosses the line first wins!

11 . Frisbee Golf

This outdoor game is perfect for a kids’ birthday party. All you need is a Frisbee and some objects like buckets or cones to use as targets. The objective is to see who can get the Frisbee into the targets in the fewest throws. The person with the lowest score at the end of the game wins!

12. Water Gun Fight

This outdoor game is perfect for kids’ birthday outdoor parties. It’s the outdoor version. All you need is a bunch of water guns and some water balloons. The object of the game is to soak your opponents with water guns and balloons. The last person standing wins!

13. Marco Polo

This classic game is always a lot of fun for kids at a birthday party. There are other types of water games but we will talk about a legend here. All you need is a pool and at least two people. One person is “it” and the other person tries to find them by following their voice. When the person who is “it” tags someone, they become “it” and the game starts over again.

14. Frisbee Catch

This simple outdoor game is a great way to get kids involved at a birthday party. All you need is a Frisbee and two kids. The object of the game is to see which kid can catch the most Frisbees in a set amount of time. The kid with the most catches at the end of the game wins!

15. Croquet

This classic outdoor game is a perfect activity for kids at a birthday party. All you need is one croquet set and some open space. The object of the game is to hit the ball through the wickets in the fewest strokes. The person with the lowest score at the end of the game wins!

16. Bubble Blowing Contest

Have kids play a party game by having them blow bubbles using store-bought bubble solution or homemade soap suds at a birthday party. Whoever can blow the biggest bubble, blow the most bubbles in one minute, or blow bubbles continuously for the longest time wins!

17. Lawn Twister

Turn your lawn into a giant Twister board for a birthday party activity for kids! Just use some masking tape or chalk to make a grid of large circles on the grass, then follow the instructions on a regular Twister game. Be sure to supervise closely so that no one gets too tangled up at the birthday party!

18. Horseshoes

Horseshoes is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including kids. You’ll need a set of horseshoes and two stakes that can be driven into the ground. Each player, including kids, gets two horseshoes, which they must throw at the stake. Players, including kids, earn points based on where their horseshoe lands; for example, a horseshoe that is closer to the stake than any of your opponent’s horseshoes earns you 1 point, while a horseshoe that encircles the stake earns you 3 points. The first player, including kids, to reach 21 points wins!

19. Lawn Darts

This outdoor game is great for groups of all sizes, including kids. You’ll need a set of lawn darts and a target that can be placed on the ground. The object of the game is for one player to throw their dart at the target and score points based on where it lands. The first player, including kids, to reach 21 points wins!

20. Tic-Tac-Toe Game

This classic party game for kids can be played anywhere, including outdoors! It can even be played at a birthday party. All you need is a piece of paper and something to write with and if possible a tic tac toe board. Draw a grid of nine squares, then take turns placing Xs and Os in the squares. The first player to get three in a row wins!

21. Ring Toss

This is a classic outdoor toss game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including kids. You’ll need a set of rings and a target that can be placed on the ground. The object of this toss game is to toss your ring onto the target and score points based on where the ring lands. The first player to reach 21 points wins!

22. Obstacle Course

This outdoor game is great for kids of all sizes. You’ll need some simple obstacles, such as cones or traffic pylons, and a timer. The object of the game is to complete the obstacle course as fast as possible. The player with the fastest time wins!

23. Giant Jenga

This outdoor game is great for groups of all sizes, including kids. You’ll need one giant Jenga set and a timer. The object of the game is to take down the tower as fast as possible without knocking over the tower.

If you’re the last player to successfully take a piece out without knocking it down in this outdoor birthday party game, you win! It’s a game for kids and adults alike.

24. Backyard Mini Golf

Whether you have a large backyard or a small one, you can easily set up a mini golf course for kids and have hours of fun with your family and friends. The great thing about backyard mini golf is that you can customize the course to your liking, adding obstacles and challenges that will make the game more exciting for kids.

Create your own unique mini golf holes using everyday objects like buckets, ramps, and household items. Backyard mini golf is a great party game for kids that improves hand-eye coordination and concentration.

DIY Games Adults Can’t Stop Playing

• Giant Jenga is a fun game for kids and adults. Create a set of oversized wooden blocks and stack them to create a tower. Players, including one player at a time, take turns removing blocks without toppling the tower.
• Build a cornhole board using plywood and 2x4s for kids. Paint or decorate the cornhole board for an game ideas. Players take turns tossing bean bags into the holes for points in this backyard game, with one player at a time.
• Lawn Twister is a fun game for kids. Use spray paint to create a giant Twister board on the grass. Players spin one wheel and place their hands and feet on the corresponding colors.
• Giant Connect Four is a fun game for kids. Construct a large wooden frame with holes and create oversized game pieces. Players, one by one, take turns dropping their pieces into the frame to connect four in a row.
• Water Balloon Piñatas: Hang water-filled balloons from a tree branch or clothesline. Blindfolded players take turns trying to burst the balloons with a stick. This is another of the famous water games.
• DIY Toss Game: Make a toss game using buckets or baskets and bean bags. Players earn points by successfully tossing the bags into the containers.
• Giant Yard Pong: Set up a large-scale version of beer pong using buckets or trash cans and volleyballs. Players throw the balls into the buckets to score points.
• Hula Hoop Ring Throw: Place hula hoops of different sizes on the ground and assign point values to each. Players throw rings and aim to land them inside the hoops.
• Outdoor Bowling: Collect empty plastic bottles and fill them with a little water or sand to weigh them down. Set up the bottles in a triangle formation and use a ball to knock them down.
• DIY Obstacle Course: Create a fun and challenging obstacle course using items like hula hoops, cones, ropes, and tires. Players race against the clock to complete the course.

Outdoors Backyard Carnival Games: Fun for All Ages

List of 10 Backyard Carnival Game Ideas:

1. Ring Toss: Create a ring toss game by setting up several bottles in a row and giving players a set of rings to throw. It’s easy to build using empty plastic bottles and wooden dowels. This game is easy and fun for all ages as it tests hand-eye coordination and offers a sense of accomplishment when a ring lands on a bottle.
2. Bean Bag Toss: Build a bean bag toss game by making a wooden board with different-sized holes and assigning points to each hole. Players can throw bean bags into the holes to score points. This game is enjoyable for everyone as it requires aim and strategy, providing friendly competition.
3. Duck Pond: Set up a small inflatable pool and fill it with water. Place rubber ducks in the pool, each with a number written on the bottom. Players can pick a duck and win a prize corresponding to the number on the bottom. This game is easy to set up and easy appeals to all ages, as it involves luck and excitement.
4. Balloon Darts: Create a balloon dart game by attaching balloons to a corkboard or wooden surface and giving players darts to throw. Each balloon can have a prize written on a slip of paper inside. This game is thrilling for everyone, as it combines skill and anticipation.
5. Can Knockdown: Stack empty cans in a pyramid formation and provide players with soft balls to throw and knock down the cans. Players can win a prize if they successfully knock down all the cans. This game is simple to build and enjoyable for all ages, as it involves aiming and precision.
6. Sack Race: Organize a traditional sack race by providing large burlap sacks for participants to hop in. Set up a designated race track and let the fun begin! This game is a classic and appeals to all ages, as it promotes physical activity and friendly competition.

Be Kid-Friendly: Our Favorite Old and New Outdoor Games for Your Backyard

• Hide and Seek: This classic game has been enjoyed by children for generations. One person is designated as “it” and closes their eyes while the other players hide. The “it” then tries to find and tag the hidden players. It’s an old game because it has been played for many years and is loved for its simplicity and excitement.
• Capture the Flag: Another timeless outdoor game, Capture the Flag is a team-based game where players try to capture the opposing team’s flag and bring it back to their own territory without getting tagged. It’s an old game because it has been played for decades and encourages teamwork, strategy, and physical activity.
• Kickball: Similar to baseball, kickball is a fun and active game that is perfect for the backyard. Players take turns kicking a large rubber ball and then run around the bases to score points. It’s an old game because it has been played for a long time and is a great way to improve coordination and teamwork.

Transform Your Backyard into a Fun Zone for Family Reunions and 4th of July Celebrations

Transforming your backyard into a fun zone for family reunions and 4th of July celebrations can create lasting memories for everyone involved. Here are some ideas on themes that can help you create the perfect ambiance for these special occasions:

1. Patriotic Picnic: Embrace the spirit of the 4th of July by hosting a patriotic-themed picnic in your backyard. Decorate with red, white, and blue tablecloths, banners, and balloons. Serve classic American dishes like hamburgers, hot dogs, and apple pie. Set up games like cornhole and horseshoes to keep everyone entertained.
2. Hawaiian Luau: Transport your guests to a tropical paradise with a Hawaiian luau theme. Create a festive atmosphere with tiki torches, colorful leis, and tropical decorations. Serve delicious Hawaiian dishes like grilled pineapple, teriyaki chicken, and coconut shrimp. Set up a DIY photo booth with props like grass skirts and flower crowns for some fun memories.
3. Sports Extravaganza: If your family loves sports, why not turn your backyard into a sports extravaganza? Set up different stations for various sports like basketball, soccer, and volleyball. Create a mini-golf course or a batting cage for some friendly competition. Provide jerseys or team shirts for everyone to wear and get into the spirit.
4. Carnival Funfair: Bring the excitement of a carnival to your backyard with a funfair-themed celebration. Set up game booths with activities like ring toss, bean bag toss, and balloon darts. Create a popcorn and cotton candy station for tasty treats. Hire a face painter or a balloon artist to entertain the kids.
5. Movie Night Under the Stars: Create a cozy outdoor theater experience with a movie night under the stars. Set up a large screen and a projector in your backyard. Provide comfy seating options like bean bags or blankets. Serve popcorn, candy, and other movie snacks. Choose family-friendly movies that everyone can enjoy.

1. Water Park Extravaganza: Beat the summer heat by turning your backyard into a water park extravaganza. Set up water slides, inflatable pools, and water sprinklers for hours of fun. Create a DIY slip and slide using a tarp and some dish soap. Serve refreshing drinks and snacks like watermelon slices and popsicles to keep everyone hydrated and energized.
2. DIY Carnival Games: Bring out your creative side by designing and setting up your own carnival games in the backyard. Create a ring toss game using empty bottles and rings, or a bean bag toss game using buckets or boxes. You can also make a DIY dunk tank using a large container filled with water. Offer small prizes for winners to add to the excitement.
3. Outdoor Cooking Fiesta: Turn your backyard into a culinary paradise by hosting an outdoor cooking fiesta. Set up a grill station where guests can cook their own burgers, hot dogs, and kebabs. Provide a variety of marinades, spices, and toppings for everyone to customize their dishes. Create a salsa bar with different types of salsa and chips for a tasty appetizer. Don’t forget to have some refreshing beverages like homemade lemonade or iced tea.
4. Campfire and S’mores Night: Create a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere by hosting a campfire and s’mores night in your backyard. Set up a fire pit where guests can gather around and roast marshmallows for delicious s’mores. Provide different types of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows for everyone to create their own unique s’more combinations. You can also tell stories or sing campfire songs to enhance the camping experience.

Why Play Fun Outside Games?

Games are a great way to keep guests entertained, especially if you have a lot of people over. They’re also perfect for kids’ parties, as most outdoor games can be played by children of all ages.

Plus, playing outdoor games is a great way to get everyone moving around and enjoying the fresh air. And speaking of air, if you’re hosting a summer party, outdoor games can help guests cool off and have fun in the sun.

Whatever the occasion, games are a great way to liven up any gathering. So, if you’re looking for some fun ideas, continue to read.

How Do You Make A Backyard birthday Party Idea Fun?

No matter what the occasion, outdoor party game are a great way to add some fun and excitement to your backyard bash. But, with so many games to choose from, how do you choose the right ones for your party? Here are a few tips:

– First, consider the age of your guests. Some games are more suitable for kids, while others are better for adults.

– Second, think about the number of people you’ll have at your party. Some games work best with large groups, while others are much fun twist with smaller groups.

– Third, take into account the amount of space you have in your backyard. If you have a small backyard, you’ll want to choose a game that doesn’t require a lot of space.

Tips To Make It Summer Fun While Playing Outside Party Games

• – Make sure to have plenty of refreshments on hand, such as drinks and snacks.
• – Make sure the outdoor area is well lit so that everyone can see what’s going on.
• – Set up a speaker system so that everyone can hear the music.
• – Have a variety of outdoor party game ideas available so that everyone can find something they enjoy.
• – Make sure to supervise outdoor games closely so that everyone stays safe.
• – Have Summer fun and enjoy spending time with your friends and family!

Conclusion

These are just a few ideas for best outdoor party games that will help you keep your guests entertained all day long! So get out there and start planning your next party – we guarantee it’ll be a hit!

Pinterest has some other great games that you and your family can play.

FAQ

How to Host an Outdoor Party During the Winter

A winter outdoor party can be a unique and memorable experience for your guests. Despite the cold weather, with the right preparations and themes, you can create a fun games and enjoyable atmosphere.

Here are some winter party themes that you can consider for your outdoor gathering:

1. Winter Wonderland: Transform your backyard into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, snowflake decorations, and faux snow. Encourage guests to dress in white or silver attire to create a cohesive and festive look.
2. Ski Lodge Party: Embrace the winter sports theme by hosting a ski lodge party. Decorate with vintage skis, snowboards, and cozy blankets. Serve warm drinks like hot chocolate and mulled wine to keep everyone toasty.
3. Ice Skating Party: If you have access to an outdoor ice rink or a frozen pond, an ice skating party can be a great option. Provide skates for your guests and set up a cozy area with fire pits and blankets for those who prefer to watch.
4. Ugly Sweater Party: Embrace the tackiness of winter fashion with an ugly sweater party. Encourage your guests to wear their most outrageous and festive sweaters. Offer prizes for the ugliest sweater or the most creative design.

Now, let’s move on to some fun games that you can incorporate into your winter outdoor party:

1. Snowball Toss: Set up targets in your backyard and have guests compete in a snowball toss. Provide buckets of snowballs and see who can accurately hit the targets from a designated distance. You could even have someone try to stop you from hitting the target by using a baseball bat.
2. Winter Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of winter-themed items for guests to find in your outdoor space. Include things like pinecones, icicles, and specific types of winter birds. Provide small prizes for those who complete the scavenger hunt first.
3. Snowman Building Contest: Divide your guests into teams and have them compete to build the best snowman. Provide accessories like hats, scarves, and carrots for the snowman to wear. Make it fun games and memorable experiences.

1. Snowball Obstacle Course: Create fun yard games and challenging obstacle courses in your backyard using the snow. Set up various obstacles like tunnels, ramps, and hurdles that guests have to navigate while carrying a snowball. Time each participant and award a prize to the fastest snowball course completion.
2. Snow Painting: Provide spray bottles filled with water and food coloring to your guests and encourage them to create colorful snow masterpieces. They can paint snow sculptures, make patterns on the ground, or even create a collaborative snow mural.
3. Winter Olympics: Host your own version of the Winter Olympics by setting up various winter-themed games and challenges. Include activities like snowshoe races, sled relay races, and snowball target shooting. Keep track of points and award medals to the winners during a closing ceremony.
4. Snow Volleyball: Set up a volleyball net in your backyard and play a friendly game of snow volleyball. Use a brightly colored volleyball to make it easier to see in the snow. This game is a great way to stay active and have fun with friends and family during the winter season.
5. Ice Bowling: Fill empty water bottles with colored water and freeze them to create your own set of ice bowling pins. Set up a bowling alley in your backyard using the frozen pins and a snowball as a bowling ball. Take turns trying to knock down as many pins as possible for a strike or spare.
6. Winter Photo Booth: Create a festive winter-themed photo booth area with props like scarves, hats, and winter-themed signs. Set up a camera or provide disposable cameras for guests to capture fun and memorable moments. This activity is perfect for capturing the joy and excitement of winter.

Kevin Goodell

Meet Kevin Goodell, your outdoor adventure coach! With a passion for nature ignited in childhood, Kevin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to simplify tough outdoor skills. As a U.S. Army veteran and former Sergeant, he has honed his leadership and teamwork abilities while developing a deep love for the great outdoors.

Kevin’s dedication to outdoor activities spans biking, birdwatching, national park trips, and archery/golf. With his friendly and approachable demeanor, he is committed to guiding individuals of all ages and skill levels towards unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Harnessing his extensive knowledge and personal achievements, Kevin is your go-to resource for learning and enjoying various outdoor pursuits. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or serene nature escapes, Kevin’s professional yet friendly approach will ensure an engaging and informative experience. Embark on your next outdoor adventure with Kevin Goodell and embrace the beauty of nature like never before.