15 Exciting Family Games for Memorable Backyard Get-togethers

Looking to spice up your backyard get-togethers? Look no further! We’ve got 15 exciting family games that will make your gatherings unforgettable.

From classic favorites like cornhole and ladder toss to thrilling games like water balloon dodgeball and spikeball, there’s something for everyone.

Grab your friends and family, head outside, and get ready for some serious fun!

Cornhole

Get ready to have a blast with the classic backyard game, cornhole.

Cornhole is a fun and competitive game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The objective of the game is simple: toss bean bags into the hole on the cornhole board. It may sound easy, but it requires skill and precision.

The excitement begins as you step up to the board, bean bag in hand, ready to aim for that perfect shot. You feel the anticipation building as you release the bag, watching it soar through the air towards the board. Will it land in the hole for a satisfying ‘cornhole’ or will it just slide onto the board for a respectable ‘woody’?

The cheers and laughter of your family and friends fill the air as you celebrate each successful throw. Cornhole is a game that brings people together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ladder Toss

Now let’s talk about the points in Ladder Toss.

The game follows a simple scoring system where each rung has a different point value.

The top rung is worth 3 points, the middle rung is worth 2 points, and the bottom rung is worth 1 point.

Game Rules

To learn how to play Ladder Toss, follow these simple game rules. Ladder Toss is a fun and competitive game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. The objective of the game is to score points by throwing bolas onto the rungs of a ladder-shaped target. The game can be played with two or more players, and the first player or team to reach a certain number of points, usually 21, wins the game.

Here are the basic game rules for Ladder Toss:

1. Set up the ladder target by positioning it a certain distance away from the players.
2. Each player takes turns throwing their bolas, trying to wrap them around the ladder rungs.
3. The bolas must be thrown underhand and cannot touch the ground before hitting the ladder.

Rule	Description
1	Position the ladder target
2	Throw bolas underhand
3	Bolas must not touch the ground

Scoring System

To score in Ladder Toss, you’ll need to successfully wrap your bolas around the ladder rungs. The scoring system is simple yet exciting, adding an element of competition to this backyard game. Here’s how it works:

• Each rung on the ladder is assigned a specific point value, usually ranging from 1 to 3.
• When you successfully land a bola on a rung, you earn the corresponding points.
• The top rung usually has the highest point value, followed by the middle and bottom rungs.
• If your bola wraps around multiple rungs, you add up the points for each rung it touches.
• The first player or team to reach a predetermined point total, usually 21, wins the game.

With this scoring system, every toss becomes an opportunity to earn points and inch closer to victory.

Giant Jenga

Get ready to challenge your family and friends with the thrilling game of Giant Jenga in your backyard! Giant Jenga is a larger-than-life version of the classic game that will test your steady hand and strategic thinking.

The objective is simple: remove one block at a time from the tower and place it on top without causing the tower to collapse. The game starts with a sturdy tower built from wooden blocks stacked in a three-by-three pattern. As the tower grows taller, the tension and excitement intensify.

Each player takes turns carefully removing a block and placing it on top, hoping to maintain the stability of the tower. The suspense builds as the tower becomes more wobbly with each move. The game continues until the tower finally tumbles down, leaving one player victorious.

Giant Jenga is an excellent choice for backyard get-togethers, as it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It encourages friendly competition and creates lasting memories as you cheer on each other’s successes and laugh at the near-misses.

Water Balloon Dodgeball

During your backyard get-together, spice up the fun and excitement by playing a thrilling game of Water Balloon Dodgeball. This game will keep everyone on their toes and create lasting memories. Here’s why Water Balloon Dodgeball is the perfect addition to your family gathering:

• Easy setup: All you need is a wide open space, some water balloons, and a few buckets to hold them. No need for elaborate equipment or expensive props.

• Inclusive for all ages: Water Balloon Dodgeball is a game that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to bring everyone together and get everyone involved in the action.

• Cooling off on hot days: With water balloons flying through the air, this game provides a refreshing way to beat the heat during those scorching summer days.

• Boosts agility and coordination: Dodgeball requires quick reflexes and nimble movements. Playing with water balloons adds an extra level of challenge, making it a fantastic way to improve agility and coordination.

• Laughs and smiles guaranteed: There’s something inherently funny about getting hit with a water balloon. This game is sure to bring out the laughter and create a fun-filled atmosphere.

Spikeball

Continue the fun and excitement from Water Balloon Dodgeball by incorporating Spikeball into your backyard get-together with a fast-paced and competitive game that will keep everyone engaged. Spikeball is a popular outdoor game that combines elements of volleyball and four-square. It is played with a small trampoline-like net placed on the ground, and the objective is to bounce the ball off the net in such a way that the opposing team cannot return it. The game is played in teams of two, and the rules are simple and easy to understand.

Here is a table summarizing the key aspects of Spikeball:

Aspect	Description
Players	2 teams of 2 players
Equipment	Spikeball net, ball
Objective	Bounce the ball off the net
Scoring	Points are awarded for successful bounces
Gameplay	Fast-paced and competitive
Benefits	Improves hand-eye coordination and agility

Spikeball is a great game for all ages and skill levels. It can be played in your backyard, at the park, or even at the beach. The fast-paced nature of the game keeps everyone on their toes and encourages friendly competition. So gather your family and friends, set up the Spikeball net, and get ready for an exciting and memorable backyard get-together.

Giant Connect Four

To add a fun and interactive element to your backyard get-together, challenge your family and friends to a game of Giant Connect Four. This classic game is sure to bring out the competitive spirit in everyone and create lasting memories.

Here are five reasons why Giant Connect Four should be at the top of your backyard games list:

• Easy to play: Giant Connect Four follows the same rules as the original game, but on a larger scale. Simply take turns dropping your colored discs into the frame, aiming to connect four in a row before your opponent does.

• Suitable for all ages: Whether you’re hosting a family reunion or a gathering with friends, Giant Connect Four is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and having fun.

• Builds strategic thinking: As you play Giant Connect Four, you’ll quickly realize that luck alone won’t guarantee victory. You’ll need to think strategically, planning your moves ahead and anticipating your opponent’s next move.

• Outdoor fun: Giant Connect Four is the perfect game to play outside, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Set it up in your backyard or take it to the park for an exciting outdoor gaming experience.

• Compact and portable: Despite its giant size, the game is surprisingly easy to transport and store. The frame can be disassembled, making it convenient to take with you to picnics, camping trips, or any other outdoor gathering.

Kan Jam

After enjoying a game of Giant Connect Four, it’s time to introduce your family and friends to the exciting outdoor game of Kan Jam.

Kan Jam is a fast-paced and competitive game that will keep everyone entertained for hours. The objective of the game is simple: work together with your teammate to throw a frisbee into the goal, or ‘kan,’ while your opponents try to deflect it or knock it off course.

The game is played with two teams of two players each, standing on opposite sides of the playing area. The kan is positioned in the center, and each team takes turns throwing and deflecting the frisbee.

Points are scored when the frisbee hits the kan, with different amounts awarded depending on the throw. The game continues until one team reaches a predetermined number of points, usually 21.

Kan Jam is easy to learn and suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. It’s the perfect addition to your backyard get-togethers and will surely create memorable moments of fun and friendly competition.

Capture the Flag

Get ready to strategize and compete as you engage in the exhilarating game of Capture the Flag during your backyard get-togethers. This classic game is perfect for bringing friends and family together for hours of fun and excitement.

Here are five reasons why Capture the Flag should be at the top of your game list:

• Teamwork: Capture the Flag requires players to work together, strategize, and communicate effectively to achieve victory.

• Physical Activity: Running, dodging, and sprinting to capture the flag will get everyone moving and active.

• Adrenaline Rush: The thrill of sneaking into enemy territory, avoiding capture, and successfully retrieving the flag will give you an adrenaline rush like no other.

• Strategic Thinking: Capture the Flag challenges your ability to think strategically, plan your moves, and outsmart your opponents.

• Friendly Competition: Engaging in friendly competition with your loved ones will create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

Tug of War

Gather your family and friends for an exciting game of Tug of War, a high-energy competition that will test your strength and teamwork skills. Tug of War is a classic game that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. The objective is simple: two teams compete against each other to see who can pull the rope the farthest in their direction. It’s a battle of strength, strategy, and determination.

To play Tug of War, you’ll need a strong rope and a level playing field. Divide your group into two teams, making sure they’re evenly matched in terms of size and strength. Each team should stand facing each other, gripping the rope tightly. On the count of three, both teams start pulling with all their might. The team that manages to pull the rope over a designated line on their side wins.

Tug of War isn’t only a fun-filled activity, but it also promotes teamwork and communication. It requires coordination and synchronization among team members to pull in unison and overpower the opposing team. This game teaches valuable lessons about collaboration, trust, and perseverance.

Lawn Twister

To continue the excitement from the previous game of Tug of War, bring even more fun to your backyard get-together with Lawn Twister. This classic game with a twist is perfect for all ages and will have everyone laughing and twisting in no time.

Here are five reasons why Lawn Twister is a must-have for your next gathering:

• Easy Setup: With a simple setup process, you can have your lawn transformed into a colorful twister board in minutes. Just lay out the giant mat and spin the wheel to determine which body part and color to place on each spot.

• Active and Engaging: Lawn Twister gets everyone up and moving, providing a fun way to get some exercise while enjoying quality time with family and friends.

• Suitable for All Ages: From young children to grandparents, Lawn Twister is a game that everyone can enjoy. It’s a great way to bring generations together and create lasting memories.

• Versatile Gameplay: The possibilities are endless with Lawn Twister. You can switch up the rules and create your own variations to keep the game exciting and fresh each time you play.

• Portable and Compact: The mat can be easily rolled up and stored, making it ideal for taking to picnics, camping trips, or any outdoor event.

Giant Yard Pong

Now, let’s talk about the points in Giant Yard Pong.

The objective of this game is to throw the ball into the opposing team’s cups, just like in beer pong, but on a much larger scale.

Each cup is worth a different number of points, adding an element of strategy to the game.

Oversized Beer Pong

Grab your friends and family for a fun game of Giant Yard Pong, a larger-than-life twist on the classic beer pong game. This oversized version is played outdoors, making it perfect for backyard get-togethers.

Here are five reasons why you should give Oversized Beer Pong a try:

• It’s a crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a good game of beer pong, and when you supersize it, the excitement and laughter are amplified.

• Easy setup: All you need are some large buckets and a few oversized balls. No special equipment or complicated rules required.

• Suitable for all ages: Whether you’re playing with kids or adults, Oversized Beer Pong is a game that everyone can enjoy.

• Great for parties: It’s a fantastic icebreaker and a guaranteed way to get the party started.

• Outdoor fun: Take advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoy some friendly competition in the fresh air.

Fun for All Ages!

For a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, look no further than Giant Yard Pong. This oversized version of the classic party game is sure to bring hours of fun and laughter to your backyard get-togethers. With its simple rules and easy setup, anyone can join in on the excitement. Take a look at the table below to see just how Giant Yard Pong compares to its traditional counterpart:

	Traditional Pong	Giant Yard Pong
Players	2	2 or more
Ball Size	Small	Large
Cups	10	6

As you can see, Giant Yard Pong offers a unique twist on the original game, making it perfect for players of all ages. So gather your friends and family, set up the cups, and let the fun begin!

Giant Checkers

To create an unforgettable backyard get-together, engage your family in a thrilling game of Giant Checkers. This classic game is a perfect way to gather everyone together and have a blast.

Here are five reasons why Giant Checkers should be at the top of your list:

• Fun for all ages: Giant Checkers is a game that can be enjoyed by everyone, from young children to grandparents. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved and laughing together.

• Easy to learn: The rules of Giant Checkers are simple and easy to understand. Even if you’ve never played before, you’ll be able to pick it up in no time. All you need to do is move your pieces diagonally across the board and try to capture your opponent’s pieces.

• Great exercise: Giant Checkers is a game that gets you moving. As you strategize and make your moves, you’ll be getting some exercise without even realizing it. It’s a fun way to stay active and burn off some energy.

• Engaging strategy: While Giant Checkers may seem simple, there’s actually a lot of strategy involved. You’ll need to think several moves ahead and plan your moves carefully in order to outsmart your opponent.

• Versatile and portable: Giant Checkers can be played on any flat surface, whether it’s your backyard, the beach, or a picnic area. The game pieces are lightweight and easy to transport, making it the perfect game to bring along on your family outings.

Horseshoes

Ready to up your horseshoes game? We’ve got you covered with some technique tips and recommendations for the best backyard horseshoes sets.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these points will help you improve your skills and make your backyard get-togethers even more exciting.

Horseshoes Technique Tips

Mastering the proper horseshoes technique will greatly enhance your chances of winning the game. Here are some tips to help you improve your skills and become a horseshoes pro:

• Grip: Hold the horseshoe with a firm, yet relaxed grip. Ensure your fingers are positioned in the middle of the shoe for better control.

• Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing the stake. Keep your body relaxed and balanced throughout the throw.

• Release: Aim for a smooth and fluid release of the horseshoe. Avoid gripping too tightly or releasing too early.

• Follow-through: Follow through with your arm after releasing the horseshoe. This helps with accuracy and distance.

• Practice: Regular practice is key to improving your horseshoes technique. Set up a backyard horseshoe pit and make it a fun family activity.

Best Backyard Horseshoes Sets

You can find the best backyard horseshoes sets to elevate your family’s outdoor game experience.

Whether you’re looking for a set for casual play or competitive matches, there are options available to suit your needs.

One popular choice is the St. Pierre American Professional Horseshoe Set. This set is made in the USA and includes four forged steel horseshoes and two solid steel stakes. The horseshoes are designed for optimal balance and control, ensuring accurate throws.

Another great option is the Champion Sports Rubber Horseshoe Set. This set is perfect for families with young children, as it includes four lightweight rubber horseshoes and two rubber mats for safe and easy play.

Both of these sets provide hours of fun and enjoyment for all ages, making them the ideal addition to your backyard game collection.

Frisbee Golf

Get your family together for a thrilling game of Frisbee Golf in your backyard. It’s a fun and active way to spend quality time with your loved ones. Here are some reasons why you should give Frisbee Golf a try:

• Easy setup: All you need is a few Frisbees and some targets, which can be as simple as buckets or hula hoops. No complicated equipment or rules to worry about.

• Suitable for all ages: Frisbee Golf is a game that can be enjoyed by everyone, from young children to grandparents. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and active.

• Improves coordination: Playing Frisbee Golf requires precision and accuracy, helping to improve hand-eye coordination and motor skills.

• Strategic thinking: Just like traditional golf, Frisbee Golf involves planning your shots and strategizing to reach the target in the fewest throws possible. It’s a great way to exercise your brain while having fun.

• Outdoor entertainment: Frisbee Golf is the perfect game to enjoy in your backyard. It gets everyone outside, breathing in fresh air, and enjoying the sunshine.

Badminton

Ready to take your backyard get-togethers to the next level? Let’s talk about badminton!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, mastering the right techniques is key to success. And don’t forget about the importance of teamwork in this fast-paced and exciting game.

Badminton Techniques

Mastering the precise technique of serving is essential for success in playing badminton. To improve your game, here are some key techniques to focus on:

• Grip: Hold the racket with a relaxed yet firm grip to ensure control and power in your shots.
• Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your body facing the net, ready to move in any direction.
• Timing: Time your swing to make contact with the shuttlecock at the highest point of its arc for optimal power and accuracy.
• Follow-through: After hitting the shuttlecock, follow through with your racket to maintain control and improve shot placement.
• Footwork: Develop quick, agile footwork to move swiftly around the court and reach shots with ease.

Teamwork in Badminton

To excel in badminton, you and your partner must effectively communicate and coordinate your movements on the court. Teamwork is crucial in this fast-paced and dynamic sport.

One of the key aspects of teamwork in badminton is anticipation. By reading your partner’s body language and understanding their strategies, you can predict their shots and position yourself accordingly. This allows you to cover more ground and respond quickly to your opponent’s moves.

Another important aspect is communication. Constantly talking to your partner during the game helps you coordinate your movements and make split-second decisions. Clear and concise instructions like ‘yours,’ ‘mine,’ or ‘switch’ can help you avoid collisions and maximize your court coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Set up a Game of Cornhole?

To set up a game of cornhole, you’ll need two cornhole boards and eight bean bags. Place the boards a distance apart, facing each other. Take turns throwing the bean bags and aim for the hole. Have fun!

What Are the Rules for Playing Tug of War?

To play tug of war, split into two teams and grab opposite ends of a rope. The goal is to pull the other team across a designated line. It’s a fun and competitive game for backyard get-togethers.

Are There Any Safety Precautions to Consider When Playing Water Balloon Dodgeball?

When playing water balloon dodgeball, there are some safety precautions to consider. Make sure the area is clear of any hazards, set boundaries, and provide protective eyewear. Stay hydrated, follow the rules, and have fun!

How Do You Play Capture the Flag?

To play capture the flag, divide into two teams. Each team has a flag, placed in their territory. Your goal is to sneak into the other team’s territory, grab their flag, and bring it back to your territory without getting caught.

What Are the Dimensions and Weight of a Standard Frisbee Used in Frisbee Golf?

The dimensions and weight of a standard frisbee used in frisbee golf are important for accurate throws. You’ll want a disc that measures around 21 cm in diameter and weighs between 150-180 grams.