You found our list of the best backyard games for adults.
Backyard games for adults are fun activities you can do during outdoor gatherings. For example, Bocce Ball and Tug-of-War. The purpose of these games is to foster team building and provide relaxation. These games are also known as “adult backyard activities” and “backyard BBQ games for adults.”
These backyard games are similar to outdoor team building activities, outdoor group games, and outdoor team building companies, as well as lawn games.
This list includes:
- adult backyard activities
- adult lawn games
- adult yard games
- adults outdoor party games
- backyard BBQ games for adults
- backyard competitive games
So, here is the list!
List of backyard games for adults
From Pétanque to Dodgeball, here are some fun games that can turn your backyard party into an exciting event.
1. Kan Jam
Kan Jam is one of the most popular backyard competitive games that offers hours of fun. The game involves two teams, each consisting of two players. Players score points by throwing a frisbee into a special container called the “kan.” Teams can earn points by throwing the frisbee directly into the kan or redirecting it.
One of the benefits of Kan Jam is that it encourages physical activity and coordination. Additionally, this game is a great way to socialize in a relaxed outdoor setting. Plus, the rules are easy to understand, making the game accessible for folks of all skill levels. Whether you are an experienced player or new to frisbee, you can quickly learn the rules and have fun.
2. Slacklining
Slacklining is a thrilling backyard game that adults can enjoy. Participants walk or balance on a flat strap stretched between two anchors.
To get started with slacklining in your backyard:
- Find two sturdy anchor points, such as trees or posts.
- Attach a slackline between the anchor points at an appropriate height.
- Make sure the strap is tight enough for stability but not overly tense.
- Begin by learning basic balance techniques before progressing to more advanced tricks.
This activity challenges your balance and core strength. Plus, slacklining is a fun way to improve focus and coordination.
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3. Quoits
Quoits is a classic backyard game for adults that offers friendly competition. To play quoits, you need a set of quoit rings and a target, typically made of wood or metal. Players take turns tossing their rings onto the target. Participants aim to land rings around pegs or hooks for points. Whoever earns the most points wins!
The game requires strategy and precision, making it engaging and entertaining for all. Quoits promotes hand-eye coordination and social interaction among players.
Here is a site where you can buy quoits sets and learn the rules.
4. Croquet
Croquet is one of the adult backyard activities that can provide hours of entertainment. The game involves using mallets to hit balls through hoops set up on a grassy lawn. There are several ways to set up your own croquet course. You can easily find guides online with detailed instructions. Most sets have all the supplies you need, including mallets, balls, hoops, and stakes. However, you can also use household items like pool noodles or PVC pipes as makeshift hoops.
Croquet is easy to learn and play. Additionally, this game encourages friendly competition and strategic thinking. Croquet is a leisurely game, so players can relax and chat. This enjoyable backyard game is ideal for casual get-togethers.
5. Mölkky
Mölkky is a popular backyard game for adults that can add a fun twist to your outdoor gatherings. The game originated in Finland and has gained popularity around the world. To play Mölkky, set up 12 wooden pins, known as “skittles,” in a formation. Players take turns throwing a wooden baton to knock down the skittles. The objective is to score exactly 50 points without going over.
Participants of all ages and skill levels can enjoy this game, making it great for family parties. Plus, trying to earn 50 points without going over tests players’ strategic skills.
Here are the rules of the game.
6. Spikeball
Spikeball combines elements of volleyball and four square to create a thrilling game. Players form teams of two and try to bounce the ball off the net toward their opponents. Opposing players have up to three touches to return the ball. One player cannot hit the ball two times in a row.
Teams earn points if the opposing players cannot return the ball in three hits. Additionally, teams earn points when the ball hits the ground. After each point, players rotate clockwise around the net. Whoever earns 21 points first wins!
While playing, it is important to keep an eye out for penalties. Hitting the ball out of bounds, double hits, carrying the ball, or touching the net are not allowed.
The fast-paced nature of Spikeball keeps players engaged and provides a great workout. Additionally, this game promotes teamwork, hand-eye coordination, and strategic thinking. Best of all, the compact size of the set allows you to easily bring it to picnics, beach trips, or camping adventures.
7. Pétanque
Pétanque is among the best adults outdoor party games that originated in France. This game involves throwing metal balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball. Two teams take turns throwing their balls at a target. Players will try to knock opponents’ balls out of the way without moving the target. Players earn points by being the closest to the target. Whichever team earns the most points first wins!
This game promotes physical activity and social interaction among players. Playing pétanque also offers mental stimulation. Players must plan how to score points while trying to prevent opponents from doing the same. This element of strategy adds an exciting challenge to the game.
Learn more about pétanque.
8. Badminton
Badminton is a fantastic backyard game for adults. This game is similar to tennis but requires a smaller court. To play badminton, set up a net in your backyard, grab a racket, and hit the shuttlecock back and forth over the net. You can play as singles or doubles. Teams earn points when their opponents let the shuttlecock hit the ground. Whoever earns 21 points first wins.
Playing badminton helps improve hand-eye coordination, agility, and heart health. This activity also provides an opportunity to socialize with friends or family members.
9. Lawn Darts
Lawn Darts, also known as Jarts, is a classic game that can provide hours of entertainment for adults. The game’s objective is to toss the darts and try to land them on a target on the ground. Players who earn the most points win!
While it may seem simple, Lawn Darts requires skill and strategy to succeed. Plus, this game encourages friendly competition and social interaction. You can bring lawn darts to any event, adding a fun twist to parties or gatherings.
It is important to note that safety is a huge priority when playing with Lawn Darts. Be sure to use caution when throwing the darts, and remember to never aim at people or animals. As long as teams take proper precautions, Lawn Darts can add entertainment to any party.
10. Cornhole
Cornhole is one of the most beloved backyard BBQ games for adults. To play this game, set up two wooden platforms with holes in them. Platforms should face each other. Then, split into teams and take turns throwing bean bags at the opposing platform. The objective is to get your bean bags through the hole or onto the platform for points.
Bags that go through the hole earn three points, and bags that land on the board earn one. Points from opposing teams cancel each other out. Teams who reach 21 points win! Optionally, if teams exceed 21, then they restart back at 13 points.
This game promotes friendly competition and social interaction among colleagues. To encourage new bonds, you can even pair players up from different departments. Plus, cornhole boosts hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking.
11. Frisbee Golf
Frisbee Golf, or disc golf, is among the most fun and engaging adult lawn games. This game mixes the thrill of outdoor sports with the simplicity of throwing a frisbee.
To play this game, you will probably need to bring your team to a frisbee golf course. Like traditional golf, players aim to throw the frisbee into targets in as few throws as possible. Players with the lowest scores at the end of the course win!
This activity is a great way to explore your community. Frisbee golf courses may be at local schools, parks, or community centers. If you have a large enough space, then you may be able to set up your own course as well.
12. Ring Toss
Ring Toss is a classic backyard game that can bring hours of fun for adults. The rules are simple. Players take turns trying to toss rings onto pegs or targets. Pegs may state the number of points players earn by landing on them. Alternatively, you can assign more points for more difficult shots. For instance, landing on a middle ring is more challenging than hitting an outside one.
This game is great for small groups or at parties, and it does not need much space. Plus, this game is versatile, as you can adjust the throwing distance to make it more challenging. Even if you do not have an official set, you can use household items to create a ring toss course.
13. Ladder Golf
Ladder Golf is a fun and entertaining backyard game that adults can enjoy. Players toss bolas, which are two golf balls connected by a string. Participants aim at a ladder-shaped target with three rungs. The objective is to wrap the bolas around the rungs to earn points based on where they land. Players with the most points win!
One of the main benefits of Ladder Golf is its versatility. You can play with a varying number of participants at different skill levels. Best of all, you can DIY a set to save a little money. This game combines skill and luck, making it an engaging experience for all involved.
14. Horseshoes
Horseshoes is one of the most classic adult yard games and is a great addition to work parties. To play horseshoes, all you need is a horseshoe set, consisting of two stakes and four horseshoes. Hosts will put the two stakes in the ground in a straight line away from each other. Then, players will toss the horseshoes and land them as close as possible to the stakes.
Horseshoes that wrap around the stakes earn three points. If the shoe leans against the stake, then players earn one point. At the end of the round, the player who is closest to the stake also earns a bonus point. Whoever earns 21 points first wins.
This game creates a great opportunity for colleagues to chat and have fun together.
15. Bocce Ball
Bocce Ball is a fun and social activity that brings folks together. To play this game, you will need a set of bocce balls. Typically, sets include four large balls and one small target ball called the pallino. Throwing your bocce balls as close to the pallino as possible is the goal. Players score points for each ball that is closer than their opponent’s.
Bocce Ball is a great choice for several landscapes, as you can play on grass, sand, or gravel. Because this game does not require much physical exertion, it is perfect for a laid-back party.
16. Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga is an entertaining backyard game. This activity offers a larger-than-life version of the classic Jenga experience. Like regular Jenga, the game consists of stacking oversized wooden blocks in a tower. Then, players remove one block at a time without causing the tower to collapse. The player who knocks over the tower first loses.
One of the best parts of Giant Jenga is how easy it is to make. You can gather a set of two-by-four planks and cut them all to the same size. Be sure to sand away any splinters, and then you can play Giant Jenga anytime!
17. Dodgeball
Dodgeball is a nostalgic activity that combines strategy, athleticism, and teamwork. To play this game, divide into two teams and set up boundaries. Hosts will set out several soft dodgeballs. Teams will face each other and then throw the dodgeballs at their opponents. If players catch a ball, then the thrower is out. If the ball hits a player, then they are out. Additionally, when team members catch a ball, eliminated players can rejoin the game. Whichever team can knock out all their opponents first wins!
Dodgeball offers several benefits, such as improving agility, coordination, and communication skills. For an enjoyable experience, remember to play safely and establish fair rules.
18. Tug-of-War
Tug-of-War is a classic backyard game that brings out competitive spirits. To set up this activity, hosts will find a large rope and tie knots at both ends. Next, planners will tie a flag in the middle of the rope. Then, hosts will mark lines near both ends of the rope.
Groups will split into two teams. Teams grab each end of the rope and pull. Whichever team pulls their opponents over the line first wins!
The best part about Tug-of-War is groups of any size can play together. Plus, this game fosters camaraderie as players rally together toward a common goal.
Final Thoughts
Backyard games rejuvenate the body and encourage a sense of camaraderie among coworkers. Selecting the right type of game requires considering the team’s preferences. These activities can bring about a pleasant air of healthy competition. Ultimately, these contests contribute to improved working relations. Outdoor parties are a great escape from regular work life and create fun leisure time.
Next, check out our posts on office game room ideas, company picnic ideas, and summer team building activities.
Michael Alexis