Summer parties are the best aren’t they? The weather is nice, the food is made on the grill and you’re gathered with all of your friends. If you’re having a big gathering it’s a good idea to have a few games planned to entertain yourself and your guests.
Here are a few of our favorite outdoor party games.
Croquet. Now don’t laugh. I recently played this for the first time in years and I had a blast. Everyone chuckled when we wheeled out the set and everyone laughed when I made the course; but lo and behold everyone had a blast playing. So dust off your set and get ready for some good times.
Corn Hole. For a game based on a sixth grade carnival game, it’s coming back in a big way. This is a great summer game because all ages can play and it’s a fun game to watch. Now, it would be the absolute perfect game if I could convince my grandma to give it a shot.
Volleyball. There is one ground rule you have to set and agree to before you start and that is how serious are you going to take the game? If there are little ones playing then probably not too serious. If it’s only adults then the game will be a more serious. The problem is when there is a mix of age groups. The reason I stress this is because it can be a little awkward if a 6 footer spikes on a thirteen year old. Set ground rules before you start to avoid the awkwardness. (See Meet The Fockers for a visual explanation of what can go wrong.)
Horseshoes. This is a summer time classic. I’m always a little disappointed if I go to a summer party and they don’t have horseshoes. Don’t disappoint your guests; have horseshoes.
Bocce. This is a great game because it allows a large number of people to play, while allowing immense enjoyment for those watching. It’s even better playing on a lawn that’s a little bumpy because then it becomes an even more enjoyable and frustrating game.
These are all great day time summer games. But what happens when the sun goes down? Are you just going to go home? I didn’t think so. Here are two late night summer party games.
Ghosts in the Graveyard. You remember the game don’t you? And you remember how incredible it was? (If you forgot here are the rules to Ghosts in the Graveyard.) I would imagine people would be hesitant to play, but will be all in once the fun starts.
Flashlight Tag. This game depends on having charged flashlights ready to go. (Finding more than one working flashlight at my house is always an issue.) So if you plan on playing make sure you have the requisite number of flashlights for everyone to play.
These summer games should serve you and your guests well. If you have any summer favorites, leave them in the comments below.
- Summer Party Ideas from Party411.com
- Backyard BBQ Party Ideas
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