Why Cornhole Is a Must-Have at Summer BBQs

Summer is here, and you know what that means—BBQs, sunshine, and good company. But what really brings everyone together at a BBQ (other than the irresistible smell of burgers and hot dogs on the grill)? If you ask us, the answer is a little friendly competition. That’s where cornhole comes in.
This game is the MVP of backyard hangouts, and if you’re not setting it up at your summer gatherings, you’re missing out. Between the simple rules, the hilarious moments, or the easy way it gets everyone involved, cornhole is a must-have at summer BBQs. It’s more than just two boards and beanbags—it’s pure BBQ magic!
Everyone Can Play
No athletic skills, no problem. Cornhole is accessible to nearly everyone. Whether you’re a pro athlete or someone who avoids sports like the plague, you’ll fit right in. Grandma can toss a bag with as much enthusiasm as your cousin who just joined a softball team, and even the kids will find it easy to join in. This inclusivity is what makes the game perfect for every setting—from a lazy afternoon in the backyard to a competitive showdown at a family reunion.
It’s Packed With Friendly Competition
Cornhole strikes the perfect balance—it’s competitive enough to keep people engaged but laid-back enough that you can laugh when someone flings a bag 10 feet past the board. Whether it’s a casual game or a heated match for ultimate bragging rights, everyone gets into the spirit. There will also be plenty of priceless moments, including when someone lands that perfect hole-in-one. It’s a rush that always keeps people coming back for more.
It Sparks Unforgettable Laughter
Cornhole guarantees those ridiculous, laugh-out-loud moments that you’ll talk about for years. When someone accidentally flings a bag onto the roof or completely misses the board (and maybe even the yard), the laughter that follows is unbeatable. It’s a game full of good humor and shared memories, where even your most uncoordinated attempts can become legendary.
Setup Is Stress-Free
Unlike other backyard games that require hours of assembly or confusing instructions, cornhole is as simple as it gets. Just set up two boards, grab a few beanbags, and you’re ready to play. There’s no stress, no reading a manual—just instant fun. It’s as simple as tossing a bag and way more entertaining than most games. Plus, cleanup is just as easy, leaving you more time to enjoy the fun.

It Keeps Both Kids and Adults Happy
Cornhole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. If you need to keep the kids entertained while the adults enjoy a cold drink, cornhole has you covered. And if you want to prove who the true BBQ champion is among the grown-ups, it’s the same answer. Cornhole is endlessly versatile, keeping everyone engaged and cutting down on those dreaded “I’m bored!” complaints every five minutes. It’s a win-win for everyone in the family.
It Combines Relaxation and Activity
Cornhole is the perfect middle ground. It lets you get up and moving without breaking a sweat. It’s the happy medium between lounging in a chair and diving into a high-energy, full-contact game of ultimate frisbee. Whether you’re stretching your legs or just tossing a bag between sips of your drink, it’s the kind of activity that keeps you in the game without wearing you out.
It’s Instagram-Worthy
Nothing says summer vibes like pictures of your friends and family having a blast. Cornhole boards provide the perfect backdrop for those candid action shots, whether it’s a perfectly timed toss or a total fail. Add some scenic lighting or a sunset, and you’ve got the recipe for a social media post that screams fun and relaxation. Your feed (and followers) will thank you.
It Doesn’t Hog the Space
Unlike giant inflatables, volleyball nets, or other backyard games that take over the whole yard, cornhole is compact and easy to fit in any space. It takes up minimal real estate, leaving plenty of room for food tables, lawn chairs, and conversations. With this game, you can still enjoy all your other activities without feeling crowded.
It Brings Out the Trash Talk
What’s a good game without some playful banter? Cornhole is tailor-made for friendly trash talk, from hyping up your teammate to teasing your opponent for that wayward toss. It’s all in good fun and adds an extra layer of energy to the game. Trash talk is part of the charm, and it always gets the group laughing and cheering.

It Works With a Drink in Hand
Cornhole is one of those rare games where you can fully participate without ever having to put down your drink. Whether you’re sipping lemonade, iced tea, or something a little stronger, the casual pace of cornhole makes multitasking effortless.
It’s Durable Fun for Years To Come
When you invest in a good cornhole set, you’re investing in years of fun. These sturdy boards and beanbags can last for years, surviving countless BBQs, family reunions, and outdoor events.
Long after the initial excitement fades, your cornhole set will still be going strong, ready to make an appearance at every summer gathering.
It’s Scalable to Small or Big Groups
Cornhole adapts perfectly to any crowd size. If you plan to host an intimate dinner party, a quick one-on-one game can keep things fun and light. Meanwhile, if you have a full-on reunion coming up, set up a tournament and let everyone get involved. It’s a game that scales effortlessly, making it perfect for any occasion or group dynamic.
It’s Perfect for Day and Night
Cornhole isn’t just a daytime activity—it’s just as fun under the stars. Whether you’re playing in the afternoon sunshine or setting up string lights for an evening match, the game doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. In fact, the nighttime vibe can make the competition even more exciting.
It’s Addictive (in the Best Way)
Once you start playing cornhole, it’s hard to stop. “Let’s do one more round!” quickly becomes the mantra of the day. Whether you’re riding a winning streak or determined to finally land that perfect toss, you’ll find yourself going back for more. It’s a game that hooks you in—and keeps you coming back for another throw.
Cornhole is a must-have at Summer BBQs because it brings everyone together. From the random bursts of laughter to the lighthearted rivalries, it creates an atmosphere where anyone can relax and have fun.
When you’re planning your summer BBQ, remember to grab a cornhole set—you’ll thank yourself when the party truly comes alive. You could even invest in a personalized cornhole board from us at Slick Woody’s! If you want to have a great summer BBQ, you need cornhole, and you should definitely consider taking it to the next level with some personalization!