Summer BBQs are all about enjoying the outdoors with good food, great company and fun games that bring everyone together. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout with friends or a large backyard gathering, adding the right games can elevate the entire experience. While your burgers sizzle on the grill, you’ll want some engaging activities to keep your guests entertained.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best summer BBQ games that are perfectly suited for adults. Not only will we cover the classics, but we’ll also introduce a few modern twists that your competitors may have overlooked. From strategic lawn games to fast-paced challenges, there’s something for every type of BBQ guest.
Classic BBQ Games for Adults
BBQs and lawn games go hand in hand and some games have stood the test of time. Let’s dive into a few classic games that remain favorites at any summer BBQ.
- Cornhole: A staple at many outdoor gatherings, Cornhole is a simple yet competitive game. It’s easy to set up and provides hours of fun. However, to make this game more inclusive, consider introducing team variations or competitive Cornhole tournaments with different difficulty levels for advanced players. Adding multiple sets of boards can allow more people to participate at once, ensuring that no one has to wait too long to get involved.
- Horseshoes: While a classic, Horseshoes can be elevated by offering additional target zones or even pairing the game with challenges such as blindfolded throws for added fun. Creating a “tournament-style” play could make this game more engaging, particularly for guests who enjoy strategic competition.
- Kickball: Kickball is an easy-to-set-up game that everyone knows how to play. However, one area that often gets overlooked is the potential for mixed-age or skill-level games. You can enhance the experience by allowing players to implement their own creative rules or even introducing obstacles on the playing field to make the game more unpredictable and entertaining.
Perfect Lawn BBQ Games for Adults
Lawn games are the heart of any summer BBQ. They bring out the playful side of your guests and allow everyone to enjoy the fresh air while engaging in some friendly competition. Here are some perfect lawn games that go beyond the basics.
- Kubb: This Scandinavian game, often referred to as “Viking Chess,” is a fantastic option for strategy lovers. Players take turns knocking over their opponents’ blocks by throwing wooden batons. What makes Kubb particularly interesting is its blend of skill and strategy. A fun addition to the game could be creating themed teams or setting up different “levels” of play with various obstacles, making it more challenging for seasoned players while still accessible for beginners.
- Giant Yard Pong: Yard Pong takes the classic beer pong game to a whole new level. Instead of using small cups, you use giant buckets and a large ball, making it perfect for the outdoors. While the traditional game rules are fun, you can switch things up by introducing new elements, such as varying bucket distances or adding different point values for different buckets. You could also create a drinking version for added fun or keep it kid-friendly with alternative non-alcoholic penalties.
- Bocce Ball: Often overlooked, Bocce Ball is a relaxing and inclusive game that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their athletic ability. This game is easy to play but can become even more engaging by introducing creative house rules like adding obstacles around the yard or creating unique challenges for scoring. It’s a great way to keep guests entertained without the pressure of fast-paced action.
- Ladder Toss: Also known as Ladder Golf, this game is a backyard classic that’s simple to set up and fun to play. Adding variations like increasing the difficulty by adjusting the ladder’s height or introducing team play can keep things fresh. To really up the ante, consider creating a scoring system with bonus points for trick shots or special throws.
Unique and Fun BBQ Games for Adults
If you want to take your BBQ to the next level, consider adding some unique and creative games that aren’t typically seen at every backyard event. These games are guaranteed to create memorable moments and keep your guests entertained.
- Jumbo Jenga with a Twist: While Jenga is a popular party game, you can elevate it by adding dares or fun challenges written on each block. Every time someone pulls a block, they have to complete the challenge, which could range from singing a song to performing a silly dance. This twist keeps everyone on their toes and adds a hilarious element to the game.
- Bottle Bash: Bottle Bash is a competitive frisbee game where players try to knock bottles off poles while the other team defends by catching the bottle or frisbee before it hits the ground. This game requires coordination and quick reflexes, making it a great option for more athletic or competitive groups. You can even increase the challenge by spacing out the poles further or adding a time limit to each round.
- Balloon Down: This simple game requires minimal setup but offers lots of fun. Inflate three helium balloons, each marked with different point values (e.g., 25, 50 and 100). Place them at different distances in your yard and give each player five chances to knock down as many balloons as possible using a beanbag or small ball. You can also introduce additional rules, like awarding bonus points for hitting all three balloons in a single turn or increasing the difficulty by adding obstacles in the throwing path.
- Giant Lawn Dominoes: While traditional dominoes is typically a tabletop game, turning it into a giant lawn version can make it much more interactive. You can even make your own giant dominoes set for a DIY touch. This game is perfect for guests who prefer a more laid-back activity but still want to participate in the fun.
Competitive BBQ Games for Adults
For those who love a bit of competition, these games are perfect for turning up the heat at your BBQ party. They’re designed to challenge your guests and keep them engaged throughout the event.
- Spikeball: Spikeball is a fast-paced game that’s becoming increasingly popular at outdoor gatherings. It’s a mix between volleyball and four square, where teams of two hit the ball onto a net in the center of the play area. The other team has to return the ball within three hits, making it a game of speed, agility and teamwork. To make it even more exciting, consider adding team tournaments or setting up multiple nets for larger groups. It’s a game that encourages lots of movement and gets everyone involved.
- Trackball: A lesser-known but fun game, Trackball is like playing catch but with a twist. Using a special racket, players try to throw and catch a ball that moves faster than in regular catch, thanks to the racket’s design. The game can be made more challenging by introducing time limits or obstacle courses for the players to navigate while they toss the ball back and forth. It’s perfect for those who want an energetic and skill-based game.
- Lawn Darts: Lawn Darts is another BBQ classic, but it’s important to ensure safety, especially with younger guests around. Modern lawn darts are designed to be safer, with rounded tips. You can set up different point zones or targets in your yard for players to aim at, adding a strategic element to the game. Offering prizes for the highest score can create a fun competitive atmosphere.
- Tug of War: This is an all-time favorite for BBQs that bring a group together. Tug of War doesn’t require any special equipment beyond a sturdy rope and it works best with large teams. To keep things fair and inclusive, mix up the teams with a variety of skill levels. You can even spice it up by creating themed rounds or by adding mud or water challenges for an extra fun twist.
Wrapping Up: More BBQ Games to Explore
If you’re looking to add even more variety to your summer BBQ, there are countless other games to consider. These can range from casual icebreakers to more involved games that require some planning, but all of them are guaranteed to enhance your gathering.
- Ladder Toss: Also known as Hillbilly Golf, Ladder Toss is a simple but fun game where players throw bolas (two balls connected by a string) onto a ladder. Each rung of the ladder has a different point value. To increase the challenge, you can change the distance from the ladder or add special bonus points for trick shots. You can also add a competitive team format to keep everyone engaged.
- Water Balloon Volleyball: Perfect for hot summer days, Water Balloon Volleyball adds a cooling element to your BBQ. Teams of two hold a towel between them and use it to launch water balloons over a net. The goal is to catch the balloon in your towel without it bursting. This game brings lots of laughs and excitement and it’s a great way to beat the heat while enjoying some friendly competition.
- Frisbee Golf: For a more laid-back but still competitive game, set up a makeshift Frisbee Golf course in your yard using household items like buckets, chairs, or trees as targets. Players must hit each target with their frisbee in as few throws as possible. You can add obstacles or make creative courses to increase the difficulty, making it enjoyable for both casual and competitive players.
- Jello Shot Jenga: This adult twist on the classic game Jenga is always a hit at BBQs. Each block has a challenge or rule written on it and some blocks are marked to indicate a Jello shot must be taken when pulled. It’s a fun way to combine a party game with a light drinking element, but be sure to offer non-alcoholic alternatives for those who prefer them.
Conclusion
The key to a successful summer BBQ is a great mix of food, fun and games. By incorporating a variety of classic, competitive and creative activities, you can ensure that all your guests stay entertained and engaged throughout the day. From easy-going lawn games like Cornhole and Bocce Ball to more unique options like Balloon Down and Jello Shot Jenga, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With a bit of planning and creativity, your BBQ will stand out as an unforgettable event filled with laughter and friendly competition.
