Looking to add some excitement to your garden gatherings? Garden games are a fantastic way to bring people together, whether it’s with family, friends, or neighbors. These activities not only offer entertainment but also provide a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga is a thrilling game perfect for your garden. To create your own set, cut 2×3-inch boards to about 10.5 inches, making around 54 blocks for a sizable tower. This game offers hours of fun as players stack and carefully remove blocks, trying to keep the tower from toppling. For detailed instructions on how to build your own Giant Jenga set, check out resources like The Spruce Crafts.
Cornhole
Cornhole is a classic garden game that is easy to set up and enjoyable for all ages. All you need are a cornhole board and some bean bags. The objective is to toss the bags into the hole on the board. You can customize your boards with DIY plans, decorating them to match your backyard theme or favorite sports team. For a creative twist, consider designing themed boards, such as Disney-themed ones, to add more excitement to the game at your next backyard gathering.
Badminton
Badminton is a fantastic garden game that keeps everyone active and entertained. It’s simple to set up with just a net, some shuttlecocks, and a couple of rackets. This game is great for players of all ages, offering both casual and competitive play. Enjoy friendly matches with your family or have a more intense game with friends, all while enjoying the outdoors.
Water Balloon Toss
Water balloon toss is a classic, easy-to-play game suitable for all ages. Participants pair up, standing face to face, and toss a water balloon back and forth, stepping back with each successful catch. The game continues until a balloon pops, with the last pair holding an intact balloon declared the winners. It’s a fun way to stay cool and have a blast on a hot day.
Sack Race
A sack race is a timeless outdoor game that guarantees laughter and fun. To play, you’ll need large sacks, such as burlap bags. Each participant stands inside a sack, holding the top edge, and hops toward the finish line. Ensure the racing area is clear of obstacles to prevent falls. This game is perfect for all ages and encourages friendly competition, making it a great addition to any garden gathering.
Lawn Twister
Lawn Twister adds an exciting twist to the classic game. Suitable for both kids and adults, this version involves placing colored circles made of fabric or paper in a grid pattern on the grass. A spinner calls out body parts and colors, and players place their hands or feet on the corresponding circles. This game is a great way to get everyone moving and laughing together, adding a playful element to your garden.
Capture The Flag
Capture the Flag is a dynamic game that requires a large outdoor space, like a garden or field. Players are divided into two teams, each with a hidden flag in their territory. The objective is to capture the opposing team’s flag and return it to your side without being tagged. The game combines strategy, teamwork, and physical activity, making it a thrilling choice for outdoor fun.
Bocce Ball
Bocce Ball is a fun, easy-to-set-up game perfect for all ages. Creating a bocce ball court in your backyard involves basic materials like 4×4 lumber, crushed stone, and sand. By digging a shallow area and framing it with wood, you can build a sturdy court. Filling the court with crushed stone and topping it with sand or artificial turf creates a smooth playing surface. This game is a great way to bring everyone together for some relaxed yet competitive fun.
Horseshoes
Horseshoes is a classic outdoor game that’s easy to set up and enjoy. You’ll need two stakes placed about 40 feet apart (or closer for beginners) and four horseshoes. Players take turns tossing horseshoes, aiming to get them as close to the stake as possible. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a sunny afternoon with family and friends, with the thrill of seeing who can land the most ringers.
Croquet
Croquet is a traditional lawn game ideal for summer afternoons. The game involves hitting balls through a series of hoops using mallets, requiring both skill and patience. It’s a game that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults, making it a versatile choice for garden gatherings. Croquet sets come in various designs, some of which are compact and stylish, perfect for easy storage when not in use. Add croquet to your list of garden games for a relaxed and enjoyable experience.