Why Cornhole Is the Best Game for Any Outdoor Party

An overhead view of a cornhole board with blue bags on it. There are green bags on the grass and someone standing next to the board.

Picture this: it’s a sunny day, the air is full of the aroma of food on the grill, and laughter fills the air. What could possibly make this outdoor gathering better? One word—cornhole.

This beloved backyard game has become a staple at parties, and for good reason. In this post, we’ll explore why cornhole is the ultimate outdoor party game and which types of events it suits best. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be itching to grab a set and start tossing those bags.

What Makes Cornhole So Great

While most people are at least familiar with cornhole, not everyone knows what makes this game so great. That’s why we want to take the time to explain why cornhole has steadily grown in popularity over the years.

Easy To Learn, Hard To Master

One of the best things about cornhole is how easy it is to pick up. No need for a rulebook that’s thicker than a steak; the premise is simple. You toss a bag filled with corn kernels (or modern materials) onto a board with a hole. Get it in the hole and score three points. Land on the board? That’s one point. First to 21 wins. Easy, right?

But don’t be fooled by its simplicity. While anyone can start playing within minutes, mastering the game is a different story. The angle of your throw, the weight of the bag, the speed at which you throw it—all these factors turn cornhole into a nuanced game of skill.

It’s this combination of accessibility and depth that makes cornhole endlessly entertaining.

Easily Portable

Unlike some outdoor games that require a small truck to transport, cornhole is incredibly portable. Most cornhole boards fold and come with handles, making them easy to load into your vehicle’s trunk. The bags are lightweight, so you can quickly pack them away.

Imagine you’re heading to a friend’s party or a weekend camping trip. Just grab your cornhole set, and you’ve got instant entertainment wherever you go. This level of portability also means you can pack it up and go in an instant, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous gatherings.

The Versatility of Cornhole

Cornhole isn’t a one-trick pony. Its versatility is one of its strongest selling points. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal event, cornhole fits right in.

Want to add a competitive edge? Organize a cornhole tournament with brackets and prizes. Looking for something more low-key? Just set up the boards and let people play at their leisure. It’s also adaptable to various skill levels, making it inclusive for all your guests.

Fun and Safe for All Ages

A little girl throwing a bag at a cornhole board. There is a brightly colored fence behind the board.

Safety is often a concern when it comes to outdoor games, especially if children or older family members are involved. Cornhole, however, is a game that everyone can enjoy without worrying about potential hazards.

The soft bags pose no risk of injury, and the boards are sturdy but safe. Kids can play alongside adults, and seniors can participate without much strain. Cornhole is a rare game that effortlessly bridges the age gap, ensuring everyone at your party has a good time.

Which Types of Events Is Cornhole Best For?

While we wholeheartedly believe that cornhole is a great game for any outdoor party, there’s no denying that it’s more suited for some types of gatherings. Let’s go over those events, but feel free to bring along your boards to any party you get invited to.

Birthday Parties

Who says birthday parties are only for cake and candles? Adding cornhole to the mix can exponentially elevate the fun quotient. Whether it’s a child’s birthday or an adult’s milestone celebration, cornhole brings an element of excitement and friendly competition.

You can even customize the boards with favorite cartoon characters or themes for kids. Adults will appreciate the chance to engage in some lighthearted rivalry while enjoying their drinks and snacks. Cornhole is a game with universal appeal, making it perfect for birthday celebrations.

Graduation Parties

Graduation parties are all about commemorating accomplishments and looking forward to the future. Why not add an element of fun and camaraderie with a game of cornhole? It’s a great way to put everyone in a celebratory mood.

Set up a cornhole tournament to keep the festivities lively or have a continuous game running in the background. Cornhole provides a great photo op and creates lasting memories for graduates and their guests. Plus, the game’s casual nature means it won’t overshadow the main event but will instead enhance the overall experience.

Backyard BBQs

A group having a backyard BBQ. They're all gathered around the grill, talking to each other. Some of them are holding alcoholic beverages.

Ah, the classic backyard BBQ—a time-honored tradition that brings friends and family together over good food and great company. Cornhole is an excellent addition to any BBQ, adding an extra layer of entertainment while the burgers are grilling.

The game’s laid-back vibe perfectly fits with the casual atmosphere of a BBQ. Guests can play while chatting, making it a great way to keep everyone engaged.

If you own a weatherproof cornhole board, the fun doesn’t have to stop even if Mother Nature has other plans for your cookout. Just make sure you have enough towels to dry off after your team comes away victorious.

Family Reunions

Family reunions are special occasions that call for activities everyone can enjoy. Cornhole fits the bill here perfectly. It’s easy enough for children to play but challenging enough to keep teens and adults interested.

Organize a family-wide cornhole competition, creating teams based on different branches of the family tree. It’s a wonderful way to foster a sense of unity and friendly competition. The game’s simplicity means even those who are new to it can quickly get in on the fun, making cornhole an inclusive activity for all ages.

Corporate Events

Yes, you read that right—cornhole is even a great activity for corporate events. It may sound unconventional, but cornhole is an excellent team-building activity. It encourages communication, teamwork, and a healthy dose of competition, all essential elements for a successful business.

Set up a few cornhole boards during a company picnic or team-building retreat and let the fun commence. Cornhole is a great way for employees to break the ice and bond outside the office environment. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit both conventional and casual settings, making it a valuable addition to any corporate event.

FIND THE RIGHT CORNHOLE BOARD FOR YOU