5 Super Fun Yard Games to Play This Summer
Planning your next barbecue, picnic, or outdoor dinner party and wondering how to liven things up? With yard games, of course. (Not that a pitcher or two of sangria wouldn’t hurt.)
Yard games are fun for all, even for those who don’t imbibe. Playing yard games can give some structure to an otherwise activity-less party, they are a great ice-breaker for guests who may not know each other well, and they are work equally well for grown-ups and children.
And don’t worry, whether you want to buy or DIY some yard games for your next outdoor gathering, we’ve got you covered.
Super Fun Yard Games
1. Croquet
Vintage Croquet Set via My Barn
Croquet dates back to at least the 1850s, and maybe even earlier, and makes for a great outdoor activity. It’s easy to play and simple enough to learn for those who have never played it. It also works well with a group of adults or a mixed group of adults and children.
2. DIY Backyard Connect Four
“Connect Four” is a game most of us played as a kid, but you can make your own over-sized version to play outside, just as long as you are handy with a miter saw. Check out this step-by-step tutorial to see all the details.
3. Yardzee
Yardzee Game via Two Four Foxy Designs
You’ve heard of Yahtzee, well how about the over-sized outdoor version called Yardzee? Sounds perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon lawn party with mint juleps to us. You can get a set that comes with 6 “yard dice”, a throwing bucket, and an erasable giant scorecard for 4 – 6 players.
4. DIY Yard Scrabble
Make your own yard “Scrabble” using repurposed cardboard for all you wordsmiths out there. See the game in action here and find out the letter values here. While the creators used luan board, we recommend using cardboard to make the game more eco-friendly–unless you have a bunch of luan left over from a home improvement project.
5. Badminton
Badminton Set via Littlecows
If you are looking for a little more of an active game, consider badminton. For those who aren’t familiar, it’s a little like tennis, but with a much smaller court needed for play. Here are the rules for play from the Badminton World Federation, but of course, they can be modified to fight your backyard and your get-together.
Related on Organic Authority
Croquet Player via Shutterstock
