14 Family-Friendly Outdoor Games for Your Next Gathering

Gatherings with family and friends are all about creating memories and having fun, so why not add some exciting outdoor games to the mix? Whether you’re hosting a family reunion, birthday party, or just a weekend get-together, these types of games are sure to bring joy and laughter to everyone involved. If you’re unsure which ones to try out, we’ve put together a list of 14 family-friendly outdoor games that will be perfect for your next gathering.

1. Tug of War

Nothing screams “team spirit” like a game of tug of war! All you need is a sturdy rope and some enthusiastic participants. Divide the group into two equal-strength teams and see who can pull the other across the line. Not only does this game test strength, but it also encourages teamwork and strategy. Make sure the ground is soft, as there’s bound to be some delightful tumbles involved!

2. Sack Race

Prepare for giggles galore with an old-fashioned sack race! Grab some burlap sacks or repurpose old pillowcases for this classic game. Participants hop their way to the finish line, and the first one to cross wins. It’s a great way to burn off some energy and see who has the best hopping skills. Plus, everyone’s bound to look hilarious while bouncing around the yard.

3. Egg and Spoon Race

If you like the idea of a race but don’t have the sacks needed for the previous one, try an egg and spoon race instead. For this one, each player gets an egg (hard-boiled if you want to avoid mess) and a spoon. The goal? Make it to the finish line without dropping the egg. It’s trickier than it sounds! This game is a great test of concentration and steady hands, and the added pressure of competition makes it all the more exciting.

4. Water Balloon Toss

When the weather’s warm, nothing beats the experience of a water balloon toss. Pair up players and give each team a water balloon. Toss it back and forth, but have everyone take a step back with each successful catch. The last group to keep their balloon intact wins! If you want to up the challenge and “gross” factor, replace the water balloons with raw eggs. It should make things more interesting.

5. Capture the Flag

Adventure and strategy combine in the thrilling game of capture the flag. Divide into two teams, each with a flag to protect. The objective is to grab the opposing team’s flag and bring it back to your side without being tagged. This game is fantastic for larger groups meeting in open areas, so you might have to skip this one at the backyard barbeque. That’s what makes it so great for larger gatherings, though!

6. Giant Jenga

In recent years, people have found a fun way to put a twist on the classic indoor game, Jenga, with the introduction of Giant Jenga. It’s played like the normal game, just on a larger scale. It’s a game of steady hands and nerves of steel, but it’s perfect for players of all ages. The suspense builds with each level, and the inevitable crash is always good for a big laugh.

7. Three-Legged Race

If you want to test your coordination and teamwork skills, pair up with a friend and strap those legs together for a three-legged race! Each duo must work together to reach the finish line without tumbling to the ground. It’s a game that demands perfection, but in reality, it’ll likely end with tons of hilarious mishaps. Grab some scarves or fabric strips to tie your legs together and see which team does the best.

8. Ring Toss

Simple yet satisfying, ring toss is great for all ages and requires minimal setup. Arrange stakes or bottles in the yard and challenge players to toss rings over them from a distance. Customize the difficulty by adjusting the distance from the target. This game hones hand-eye coordination and precision, and it’s always rewarding to land that perfect toss.

9. Frisbee Golf

If you want to take your family-friendly outdoor games up to the next level for an upcoming gathering, you can create your own mini-golf course using frisbees and miscellaneous targets around the yard. Designate each target as a “hole” and see who can complete the course with the fewest throws. This creative twist on traditional golf requires skill and imagination, making it a delightful challenge for everyone who partakes in it.

10. Ladder Golf

It’s known by many names, but ladder toss is an activity where you throw bolas, which are two balls connected by a string, onto a ladder-style stand. The goal is to score points by landing your bolas on the rungs, with different rungs offering varying points. Ladder golf is easy to set up and provides endless entertainment for players of all skill levels. It’s a fun way to test your aiming skills and precision.

11. Scavenger Hunt

If you want to unleash your inner adventurer, you can do so with a backyard scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for participants to find or tasks to complete within a set time limit. This game encourages exploration, creativity, and problem-solving while providing an enjoyable competition for all ages. It’s a great way to engage everyone and turn your backyard into a wonderland of discovery.

12. Human Knot

Test the family’s problem-solving skills and willingness to work together with a game of human knot. Gather the group in a circle, shoulder to shoulder, and have everyone extend their right hand out to grab someone else’s hand. Repeat with the left hand, ensuring it’s someone new. Make your choices random for an additional challenge. Once everything is set, you’ll need to figure out how to untangle yourselves without letting go. This game is an excellent exercise in teamwork, patience, and communication, and it always provides a fun mixture of challenges and successes.

13. Freeze Dance

If your group likes music, crank up the tunes and get ready to move with freeze dance! One person controls the music while everyone else dances their hearts out. When the music pauses, everyone must freeze in place—anyone caught moving is out! This game is a delightful combination of music, movement, and merriment that encourages everyone to let loose. It’s a simple yet engaging way to keep the fun going and see who can strike the most amusing frozen pose!

14. Cornhole

Last but certainly not least, no outdoor gathering is complete without a game of cornhole. This classic lawn game involves tossing bean bags onto a raised platform with a hole in it. Earn points by landing bags on the board or sinking them through the hole—easy to learn but tricky to master. Cornhole is perfect for players of all ages and skill levels, and it’s an excellent way to unwind and enjoy the company of family.

If you’re searching for the perfect game for your next gathering, Slick Woody’s has tons of high-quality cornhole boards to choose from. Pick out your favorite, and we’ll get it to you in no time.