Nothing brings a smile to kids’ faces quite like a day filled with fun outdoor activities. Whether it’s a child’s birthday party, a family reunion, or a casual play date, having a repertoire of engaging outdoor games can turn any gathering into a memorable event. Here are some of the best outdoor party games that kids of all ages will love. Get ready for a lot of laughter, a bit of competition, and a ton of fun!
1. Water Balloon Toss
Nothing screams “summer fun” like a good old-fashioned water balloon toss. This classic party game is simple: pair up the kids and have them stand a few feet apart. Each pair tosses a water balloon back and forth, taking a step back after each successful catch. The game continues until only one pair remains with an unbroken balloon. This game is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day and is sure to bring squeals of delight from the party guests.
2. Relay Races
Relay races are a staple of outdoor parties, combining competition and teamwork. Set up a simple course in the yard and have the kids form teams. You can incorporate fun twists like balancing a rubber ball on a spoon or hopping in potato sacks. The first team to cross the finish line wins! It’s a great way to keep kids active and entertained.
3. Donut on a String
This delightful and somewhat messy game is a hit at any outdoor party. Hang donuts on strings from a tree branch or a clothesline, making sure they are at mouth level for the kids. The goal is for the kids to eat the donuts without using their hands. Watching the kids try to nibble the swinging donuts is hilarious and adds an extra challenge to this simple game. It’s a sweet way to keep the party guests entertained and laughing.
4. Piñata
A piñata is a classic party game that never fails to excite. Fill a piñata with candy, small toys, or other goodies and hang it up securely.
Blindfold the kids and give them a stick to take turns trying to break open the piñata. The anticipation builds with each swing, and when the piñata finally bursts open, the scramble for treats is pure joy. This game is perfect for birthday parties and adds a festive touch to any gathering.
You can even make your own piñata, or include a piñata cake.
5. Parachute Game
The parachute game is a fun and cooperative activity that’s great for kids of all ages. Spread out a large, colorful parachute and have the kids hold onto the edges. Together, they can lift the parachute high into the air and then bring it down to trap air underneath, creating a billowing dome.
There are various fun games you can play with a parachute, like having the kids run underneath or tossing balls on top and trying to keep them from falling off. It’s a fantastic way to build teamwork and have a great time outdoors.
6. Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is an excellent choice for keeping kids engaged and exploring. Hide a set of themed pictures around the yard and give each child a list of things to find.
The first person to find all the items wins a prize. This game is not only fun but also encourages kids to use their problem-solving skills.
You can use our summer scavenger hunt for this.
7. Pool Noodle Obstacle Course
Transform your backyard into an exciting adventure land with a pool noodle obstacle course. Use pool noodles to create tunnels, hurdles, and other fun challenges. This activity is perfect for younger kids and older children alike. It’s a great way to keep everyone active and having fun.
8. Musical Chairs
Musical chairs is a timeless game that never gets old. Set up chairs in a circle (one fewer than the number of players) and play some fun music. (Check out our kids party playlist)
When the music stops, the kids must find a chair to sit in. The last person standing is out, and a chair is removed. The game continues until one child remains. This game is a perfect way to get the kids moving and laughing.
9. Water Gun Fight
Arm the kids with water guns and let the fun begin! A water gun fight is a fantastic way to cool down and have a blast. Create teams and set boundaries for “enemy territory.” The winning team could be the one that stays the driest or the team that tags the most opponents. It’s a guaranteed hit at any outdoor party.
10. Sack Races
A classic game for any outdoor gathering, sack races are simple yet incredibly fun. Each participant stands inside a potato sack and hops to the finish line. The first child to cross wins. This game is great for burning off energy and brings a lot of laughs as kids bounce their way to victory.
11. Hula Hoop Contest
Bring out the hula hoops and see who can keep theirs spinning the longest. This simple game is surprisingly challenging and provides endless entertainment. It’s also a fantastic way for kids to show off their skills and compete in a friendly manner.
12. Red Light, Green Light
This is a classic game that’s easy to set up and loads of fun. One person is the “traffic light,” standing at one end of the yard. When they call “green light,” the kids move toward them; when they call “red light,” everyone must stop. Anyone caught moving on a red light is out. The first person to reach the traffic light wins. It’s a fun way to build anticipation and excitement.
13. Bean Bag Toss
Set up a bean bag toss station with plastic buckets or rings. Kids take turns throwing bean bags, aiming to land them in the targets. This game is easy to customize for different age groups and can be made more challenging by varying the distances. It’s a great game for developing coordination and aiming skills.
14. Treasure Hunt
Similar to a scavenger hunt, but with a pirate twist! Hide “treasures” around the yard and provide the kids with a map and clues to find them.
The thrill of discovering hidden loot is a great way to spark imagination and adventure. This game is a perfect outdoor activity for themed parties or just a fun day in your own backyard.
15. Freeze Tag
In this fun twist on the classic game of tag, one person is “it” and tries to tag the other kids. When a child is tagged, they must freeze in place. Other kids can unfreeze them by tagging them again. The game continues until the “it” person freezes everyone. It’s a high-energy game that keeps everyone moving and laughing.
16. Ring Toss
Set up a ring toss game using plastic rings and bottles. Each child gets a chance to throw the rings onto the bottles, aiming for the highest score. This simple game is a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and offers endless fun.
17. Spoon Race
For a fun and challenging game, try a spoon race. Kids balance a small object like a golf ball or rubber ball on a spoon and race to the finish line without dropping it. This game requires focus and balance and is a great way to engage kids in a friendly competition.
18. Limbo
Limbo is a fun and energetic game that tests flexibility and balance. Set up a limbo stick or a simple broomstick held by two people or supported by stands.
Play some lively music and have the kids take turns bending backward to pass under the stick without touching it or falling. Lower the stick a little bit each round to increase the difficulty.
The game continues until only one person remains who can successfully limbo under the lowest setting. This game is perfect for adding a lively atmosphere to any party and is a great way for kids to show off their flexibility and have a great time.
19. Tug of War
Tug of War is a classic game that brings out the competitive spirit in kids and adults alike. All you need is a sturdy rope and a clear space with a marked center line. Divide the kids into two teams and have each team grab one end of the rope. The objective is simple: each team tries to pull the other team across the center line. It’s a great game for building teamwork and strength, and it always results in lots of cheering and excitement. Tug of War is a timeless addition to any outdoor party and guarantees much fun and laughter.
20. Blind Man’s Buff
Blind Man’s Buff is a timeless game that adds a sense of mystery and laughter to any outdoor gathering.
To play, one child is blindfolded and spun around a few times to disorient them. The other kids scatter around within a designated play area. The blindfolded player then tries to tag the other players, who can move but must remain within the boundaries.
When someone is tagged, they become the new “blind man.” This game is a fun way to develop spatial awareness and listening skills, and it’s always a hit at parties as kids giggle and dodge the blindfolded seeker.
21. Knock Down Cans
Knock Down Cans is a fun and straightforward game that combines accuracy and a bit of friendly competition.
To set up, stack empty plastic cups or cans in a pyramid shape on a stable surface. Give each child a few rubber balls or bean bags and let them take turns trying to knock down as many cans as possible with a limited number of throws. You can keep score or simply play for fun.
This game is an excellent way to improve hand-eye coordination and adds an exciting carnival feel to your outdoor party. It’s a great way to keep kids engaged and entertained as they cheer each other on.
No matter which games you choose for your next party, these fun outdoor activities are sure to create lasting memories for kids and adults alike.
From water balloon tosses to treasure hunts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your supplies, set up your yard, and get ready for a day filled with laughter and joy. Your backyard party will be the talk of the neighborhood!
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
Such a great list of awesome outdoor party games. Several of these have stood the test of time and kids still love them! Have pinned to refer back to!