17 Exciting Backyard Games for Labor Day
Labor Day Weekend: 17 Fun Backyard Games for the Whole Family
As Labor Day approaches, it's time to enjoy four days of outdoor fun. While kids might be tempted to spend more time on screens, there's a better option: getting the whole family involved in some backyard games. These activities not only provide entertainment but also encourage teamwork, boost confidence, and offer a great way to spend quality time together.
Fire up the grill, serve some burgers, and take in the last moments of summer before everyone returns to school. We've selected the best backyard games for the season, including some classic favorites. The only thing left to do is sit back, relax, and get ready to play. Who's up for a little friendly competition?
Capture the Flag
Capture the Flag is a game that combines elements of tag, football, and dodgeball. There's no limit to how many players can participate, but each team must have an equal number of players. Each team has a “flag” to protect, which can be an actual flag or another object. The playing field is divided into halves, with each team defending its side. Players are safe on their own side but vulnerable when crossing into the other team's territory.
If a player is tagged, they can be sent to “jail,” frozen until another team member tags them, or forced to join the opposing team. The goal is to coordinate gameplay, outrun opponents, and return safely to your side for victory.
- Number of Players: At least four
- Length of Game: Five minutes to an hour
- Cost: Free
Kan Jam
Kan Jam, originally known as “Garbage Can Frisbee,” was invented in the 1980s. Today, you can purchase the official game without needing garbage cans. It's popular at beaches and parks, where cans are placed at least 50 feet apart. The game requires at least four players, who can be divided into teams.
The objective is to throw a frisbee into the can, scoring three points for a “dunk.” A “deuce” (hitting the can without assistance) scores two points, and a “dinger” (assisted by a teammate) scores one point. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
- Number of Players: At least four
- Length of Game: 15 minutes to an hour
- Cost: $29.97
Cornhole
Cornhole is a classic game that has gained popularity, even leading to the formation of the American Cornhole Association. The game involves bean-filled sacks and a board with a hole. Teams compete to score points by landing sacks in the hole or on the board.
Three points are awarded for a sack that lands in the hole, one point for a sack that lands on the board, and no points for a sack that lands on the ground. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
- Number of Players: Up to four
- Length of Game: 15 to 45 minutes
- Cost: $40 to $150
Freeze Tag
Freeze tag is a simple yet exciting game that’s perfect for all ages. One person starts as the “tagger” and tries to tag others. Once someone is tagged, they become “it.” The game can include teams, allowing players to work together for an advantage.
- Number of Players: At least three
- Length of Game: Up to players
- Cost: Free
Disc Golf
Disc golf is a fun alternative to traditional golf, requiring skill and accuracy. Players use a disc golf basket and throwing discs to score points. The goal is to sink the disc into the basket with as few throws as possible.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: Varies depending on the course
- Cost: $50 to $160 for the basket, $21 to $40 for the discs
Ghost in the Graveyard
Ghost in the Graveyard is a mix of tag and hide and seek. One player becomes the “ghost” and hides while others search. When found, the player yells, “Ghost in the graveyard!” and everyone must return to a safe space. If the ghost tags someone, the game restarts with a new ghost.
- Number of Players: At least three
- Length of Game: Varies based on the number of players
- Cost: Free
Red Rover
Red Rover is a test of strength and teamwork. Players form human chains and attempt to break through the opposing team’s line. If successful, they return to their team; if not, they join the opposing team.
- Number of Players: At least six
- Length of Game: 15 to 30 minutes
- Cost: Free
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga is a larger version of the classic indoor game, ideal for outdoor play. Players take turns removing blocks from a tower, with the goal of keeping the structure upright. The dramatic collapse of the tower adds excitement.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: 5 minutes to an hour
- Cost: $46 to $70
Ring Toss
Ring toss is a simple game that tests aim and precision. Players throw rings onto a board to score points. Variations can increase difficulty, such as adding distance or limiting attempts.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: Varies depending on the number of players
- Cost: $10 to $40
Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is a customizable game that can be played indoors or outdoors. Players search for hidden items, with the challenge level adjustable based on the items and lists provided.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: Depends on the difficulty of hidden items
- Cost: Free
Obstacle Course
An obstacle course uses items from around the house to create a fun challenge. Balancing planks, crossing pools, and jumping over objects make for an exciting game that appeals to both children and adults.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: Varies depending on the length of the obstacle course
- Cost: Free
Bocce Ball
Bocce ball is a lawn game that requires skill and strategy. Players take turns throwing balls close to a target, with the closest ball winning the round. It’s a great option for teens and families.
- Number of Players: 2 to 8
- Length of Game: 15 to 30 minutes
- Cost: $27 to $60
Water Dodgeball
Water dodgeball is a fun way to cool off on a hot day. Instead of regular balls, players use water balloons. If a balloon pops, the player must retrieve a new one from the center.
- Number of Players: At least four
- Length of Game: Varies depending on the number of players
- Cost: Under $20
Giant Checkers
Giant checkers is a scaled-up version of the classic board game, suitable for two players. It’s easy to set up and can be enjoyed by spectators as well.
- Number of Players: 2
- Length of Game: 15 to 45 minutes
- Cost: $14 to $50
Lawn Bowling
Lawn bowling is a simple game that involves knocking down pins with a wooden ball. It’s easy to set up and doesn’t require much space.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: 15 minutes to an hour
- Cost: $10 to $40
Croquet
Croquet is a structured game that involves hitting balls through hoops using a mallet. It’s a great way to engage older kids and teens in a competitive yet fun activity.
- Number of Players: 2 to 4
- Length of Game: 20 minutes to an hour
- Cost: $40 to $60
Ball Catch and Toss
Ball Catch and Toss is a variation of catch that uses a velcro mitt and a special ball. It encourages dramatic catches and adds excitement to the game.
- Number of Players: At least two
- Length of Game: 15 to 45 minutes
- Cost: $5 to $15
