When the sun is shining and the weather is perfect, it’s time to gather your friends and family for some outdoor fun. While barbecues and picnics are great, why not level up your outdoor space by incorporating lawn games? Whether you’re having a housewarming party for your new home in Houston or simply entertaining friends at your ranch-style house in Columbus, OH, here are eight outdoor lawn games that are sure to provide endless entertainment for you and your guests.
1. Cornhole
Cornhole has become a staple at outdoor parties, gatherings, and tailgates. It involves throwing bean bags at a raised platform with a hole at the far end. The goal is to get the bags to land on the platform or, better yet, through the hole. Cornhole can be enjoyed casually or in competitive tournaments, making it a versatile game for all ages and skill levels.
2. Giant Connect 4
A beloved childhood game, Connect 4 gets a supersized twist in this outdoor version. Players take turns dropping colored discs into the frame, aiming to connect four of their own discs in a row. This giant-sized version adds an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the game, making it perfect for players of all ages.
3. Spikeball
Spikeball is a fast-paced, action-packed game that combines elements of volleyball and foursquare. Played with a round net on the ground, players take turns hitting the ball off the net, trying to make it difficult for the opposing team to return. With its quick reflexes and dynamic movements, Spikeball guarantees an exhilarating experience for players and spectators alike.
4. Giant Jenga
Jenga is a classic tabletop game, but when played outdoors with giant-sized blocks, it becomes a whole new level of excitement. Players take turns removing blocks from the tower and carefully placing them on top, hoping to avoid a collapse. Giant Jenga requires steady hands and strategic thinking, creating a suspenseful atmosphere as the tower grows taller and more unstable.
“Giant Jenga is such an excellent party game,” says Gordon Buchanan, founder of national lawn game rental provider Triangle Lawn Games. “We see in every setting, whether it be a formal wedding or a relaxed festival, Giant Jenga entertains everyone. From kids to adults, for whatever reason that’s one of those games that just always works.” According to Buchanan, the simplicity is the key. “It’s a simple concept, just pull the blocks out one at a time, and try not to knock it down.”
5. Bucketball
Bucketball is a fantastic game that combines the throwing skills of cornhole with the focus and targeting of basketball. It involves throwing balls into different-sized buckets placed at various distances. Each bucket has a point value and players aim to accumulate the highest score by successfully making shots. Bucketball is easy to set up and can be played in teams or individually.
6. Bocce
Bocce is a classic Italian game that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s played by tossing balls to get as close as possible to a smaller target ball called the pallino. The game requires precision and strategy, as players try to knock opponents’ balls away or position their own closer to the pallino. Bocce can be played on any lawn or even on sandy beaches, adding versatility to its appeal.
7. Rollors
Rollors, created by Minnesota native Matt Butler, combines aspects of other classic lawn games to create a fun and easy-to-learn experience. “In the game of Rollors, players or teams roll the discs underhand in a bowling motion to towards the goal,” says Butler, who also created the Tally Tumbler, a scorekeeping tumbler that can be used for all kinds of games. “The closest to the goal score points based on which sides the discs land. It’s very similar to the game of bocce ball, but there are disks with numbers on each side which give the game an element of scoring.”
8. Tug of War
Tug of War is a timeless and thrilling game that tests the strength and teamwork of participants. Two teams pull on opposite ends of a rope, aiming to drag the opposing team towards their side. Tug of War is a great way to build camaraderie and encourage friendly competition, making it a fantastic addition to any outdoor event.
9. Putterball
For those who enjoy golf or mini-golf, Putterball is a must-try lawn game. It combines golfing skills with a touch of beer pong, as players take turns putting golf balls into a large putting green with cups. The objective is to sink the ball into the cups while strategically planning shots to outscore opponents. Putterball offers a fun and challenging experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels.
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