Planning a tailgate party but on a tight budget? No worries! We’ve got you covered with a variety of inexpensive games and activities that will keep everyone entertained. From classic favorites like cornhole and ladder toss to DIY options like a homemade football toss or a themed scavenger hunt, these low-cost options are sure to add an extra dose of fun to your tailgating experience. So grab your friends, pack your cooler, and get ready to enjoy a day filled with laughter and friendly competition.
Ball Games
Cornhole
One of the most popular ball games for tailgating is cornhole. This game involves tossing bean bags onto a slanted platform with a hole in the center. The objective is to aim for the hole or land the bean bag on the platform to score points. Cornhole is a versatile game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It is easy to set up and can be played in teams or individually. Whether you’re a seasoned cornhole player or new to the game, this is a fantastic option to keep you entertained while tailgating.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam is another fantastic ball game that is perfect for tailgating. The objective of the game is to throw a flying disc into a goal consisting of two open-top plastic cans. You can play in teams of two, with one partner throwing the disc and the other attempting to deflect it into the goal. It requires precision, coordination, and a bit of strategy, making it an exciting and engaging game for tailgating. Kan Jam is easy to learn, quick to set up, and provides endless hours of entertainment for all involved.
Spikeball
If you’re looking for an energetic and fast-paced ball game, Spikeball is the answer. This game has gained immense popularity in recent years and is loved by many. Spikeball involves two teams of two players each, trying to spike the ball onto a circular net so that the opposing team cannot return it within three touches. It’s an incredibly competitive and intense game that requires agility, teamwork, and quick reflexes. Spikeball is a fantastic choice if you’re up for a challenge and want to add some excitement to your tailgating experience.
Badminton
Badminton is a classic ball game that never fails to bring joy and friendly competition to any tailgating event. It involves hitting a shuttlecock back and forth over a net using rackets. Badminton can be played in singles or doubles and is suitable for all skill levels. Setting up a badminton court is relatively easy, and it provides a great way to work up a sweat while having fun. Whether you’re a seasoned badminton player or just starting out, this game is bound to bring hours of laughter and enjoyment to your tailgating experience.
Volleyball
Volleyball is a timeless ball game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great choice for tailgating as it encourages teamwork, physical activity, and friendly competition. The objective of volleyball is to hit the ball over a net and prevent the opposing team from returning it before it touches the ground. You can play volleyball on sand or grass, depending on the available space and your preferences. With its fast-paced action and strategy, volleyball is a fantastic ball game to include in your tailgating plans.
Lawn Games
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga is a larger-than-life version of the classic game, where players take turns removing blocks from a tower and placing them on top without causing it to collapse. This game is perfect for tailgating as it can accommodate multiple players and offers a test of both skill and strategy. The anticipation of watching the tower teeter and potentially fall adds an extra element of excitement to the game. Giant Jenga is easy to set up and provides endless entertainment for everyone involved.
Ladder Toss
Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Golf, is a fun and challenging lawn game that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. The objective is to throw bolas (two balls connected by a string) onto a ladder-like structure, with the goal of getting the bolas to wrap around the rungs. Each rung has a different point value, and the first player or team to reach a certain number of points wins the game. Ladder Toss is easy to set up, highly portable, and provides hours of competitive and enjoyable gameplay.
Bocce Ball
Bocce Ball is a leisurely lawn game that is simple to learn and perfect for tailgating. The objective of the game is to throw larger balls (bocce balls) as close as possible to a smaller target ball (the pallino). Players take turns, and the team with the closest ball to the pallino scores points. Bocce Ball can be played on various surfaces, including grass, sand, or even a specially designed court. This game promotes friendly competition and encourages players to strategize and aim accurately, making it an excellent addition to any tailgating event.
Horseshoes
Horseshoes is a classic lawn game that can be traced back to ancient Greece. It involves throwing horseshoes toward a stake planted in the ground, with the objective of landing the horseshoes as close as possible to the stake. Points are awarded based on proximity to the stake and whether the horseshoe is encircling it. Horseshoes is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, and it offers a perfect opportunity for friendly competition and socializing during tailgating.
Outdoor Activities
Scavenger Hunt
Hosting a scavenger hunt during your tailgating event is an excellent way to engage your guests and add an element of excitement and adventure to the day. You can create a list of items or clues for your guests to find and let them explore the surrounding area to complete the hunt. Scavenger hunts can be customized to fit any theme or occasion, and they provide an opportunity for teamwork and friendly competition. Whether you’re organizing a family-friendly tailgating event or a gathering of friends, a scavenger hunt is sure to be a hit.
Tug of War
Tug of War is a classic outdoor activity that never fails to bring out the competitive spirit in participants. It involves two teams pulling on opposite ends of a rope, with the objective of dragging the opposing team across a designated line. Tug of War requires teamwork, strength, and strategy, making it an engaging and entertaining activity for tailgating. Whether you participate or cheer from the sidelines, Tug of War is bound to create a lively atmosphere and foster camaraderie among participants.
Three-Legged Race
The three-legged race is a hilarious and enjoyable outdoor activity that can add laughter and excitement to your tailgating event. Participants are paired up and have their legs bound together, and they must work together to walk or run to the finish line. The challenge lies in coordinating movements and maintaining balance while moving as a unit. The three-legged race is a fantastic activity for families and groups of friends, as it encourages teamwork, coordination, and friendly competition. Get ready for some memorable moments and lots of laughter with this classic game.
Sack Race
The sack race is a timeless outdoor activity that has been enjoyed for generations. Participants step into large sacks and hop or jump to the finish line. It’s a fun and energetic game that requires balance, coordination, and a good sense of humor. Sack races are a great way to bring people together and keep guests entertained during tailgating. Whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, the sack race is sure to create a cheerful and lighthearted atmosphere at your tailgating event.
Water Games
Water Balloon Toss
Water balloon toss is a refreshing and enjoyable water game that is perfect for tailgating on hot summer days. Participants pair up and stand a specific distance apart, with one person throwing a water balloon to their partner. The objective is to catch the water balloon without it breaking, and each successful catch increases the distance between the partners. The excitement builds as the distance increases, and the risk of getting wet becomes greater. Water balloon toss is a fantastic game to cool down and have fun with friends and family during tailgating.
Water Sponge Relay
Water sponge relay is a fantastic water game for tailgating that involves teamwork and creativity. Participants divide into teams and stand in a line, with a bucket filled with water at one end and an empty bucket at the other. Using sponges, each player soaks up water from the full bucket and passes it over their head to the next person in line, who then squeezes the sponge into the empty bucket. The team that fills the empty bucket to a certain level first wins the game. Water sponge relay is a fun and interactive way to beat the heat and foster camaraderie during tailgating.
Dunk Tank
If you’re looking for a water game that will create a splash at your tailgating event, a dunk tank is the way to go. This game involves a large tank of water with a seat on top. Participants take turns sitting on the seat while others throw balls at a target, trying to hit it and drop the person into the tank below. It’s a thrilling and entertaining game that is guaranteed to bring lots of laughs and cheers from the crowd. A dunk tank adds an element of excitement and friendly competition to any tailgating event, and it provides a fun way to cool off on a hot day.
Team Building Games
Egg and Spoon Relay
The egg and spoon relay is a classic team building game that encourages coordination and communication among participants. Players are divided into teams and each team is given a spoon and an egg. The objective is to carry the egg on the spoon from one point to another without dropping it. The catch is that participants must complete the relay race in pairs, passing the spoon and egg to their teammate without using their hands. The egg and spoon relay is a fantastic team building activity that promotes trust, coordination, and problem-solving skills, making it ideal for tailgating events.
Tug of War
As mentioned earlier, Tug of War is not only an outdoor activity but also an excellent team building game. This game brings participants together and fosters teamwork, communication, and strategizing. By working together and coordinating their efforts, teams can overcome the opposing side and achieve victory. Tug of War is a versatile game that can be played by people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for team building during tailgating events.
Hula Hoop Relay
The hula hoop relay is a fun and entertaining team building game that involves passing a hula hoop from one person to another without using their hands. Participants are divided into teams, and each team forms a line. The first person in line is given a hula hoop, which they must pass over their body to the person behind them without using their hands. Once a team successfully passes the hula hoop through their entire line, they win the relay race. The hula hoop relay encourages cooperation and coordination within teams, and it adds a playful and lighthearted element to any tailgating event.
Tabletop Games
Card Games
Card games are a versatile and convenient option for tailgating, as they are portable and can be enjoyed in small groups or as a single-player activity. Whether you prefer classic card games like Poker, Blackjack, or Go Fish, or more modern favorites like Exploding Kittens or Cards Against Humanity, there is a card game to suit every preference. Card games are a great way to pass the time, engage with others, and challenge your strategic thinking skills during tailgating.
Board Games
Board games are a fantastic option for those who enjoy more structured and immersive gameplay. From classic favorites like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Chess to modern hits like Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride, there is a board game for every taste. Board games allow for a deeper level of strategy, social interaction, and friendly competition. Whether you’re looking for a quick game or a longer gaming session, board games provide a fun and engaging way to spend time during tailgating.
Dice Games
Dice games are a simple yet entertaining choice for tailgating, as they require minimal equipment and can be learned quickly. From traditional dice games like Yahtzee and Bunco to more unique options like Liar’s Dice or Farkle, there is a wide variety of dice games to choose from. Dice games are perfect for all ages and skill levels, making them a great addition to any tailgating event. Roll the dice, challenge your luck, and enjoy the thrill of these exciting games while tailgating.
Trivia Games
Tailgate Trivia
Tailgate Trivia adds an element of friendly competition and intellectual stimulation to any tailgating event. Participants can form teams or play individually, answering a range of trivia questions related to sports, pop culture, or any other topic of interest. Tailgate Trivia encourages knowledge sharing, teamwork, and critical thinking, making it a great way to engage guests and create a lively atmosphere during tailgating. You can create your own trivia questions or use pre-made trivia game sets to make the experience even more enjoyable.
Guess the Logo
Guess the Logo is a fun and interactive trivia game that challenges participants to identify various logos from sports teams, companies, or other popular brands. This game is perfect for tailgating events, as it incorporates elements of both sports and pop culture. Participants can play individually or in teams, and the team or player with the highest number of correct guesses wins the game. Guessing the logos correctly requires observation and knowledge of different brands, making it a stimulating and entertaining trivia game for tailgating.
Sports Trivia
Sports Trivia is a tailor-made game for any sports-themed tailgating event. Participants can test their knowledge on a wide range of sports-related topics, including players, teams, championships, and memorable moments in sports history. Sports Trivia can be played in teams or individually, and it provides an opportunity for friendly competition and engaging conversations about sports. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy casual sports knowledge, this trivia game will keep you entertained and challenged during tailgating.
DIY Games
Ring Toss
Ring Toss is a fun and easy DIY game that can be created using minimal materials. All you need is a set of rings and some standing posts or pegs to toss them onto. Participants take turns tossing the rings and aiming to land them onto the posts, earning points based on accuracy. Ring Toss is a versatile game that can be customized to fit any theme or occasion, and it’s suitable for all ages. This DIY game is cost-effective, easily transportable, and provides hours of entertainment for tailgating.
Bean Bag Toss
Bean Bag Toss, also known as Cornhole, is a popular DIY game that is simple to make and enjoyable to play. You will need a slanted platform with a hole cut in the center and a set of bean bags. Participants take turns tossing the bean bags onto the platform, aiming for the hole or landing them on the platform to score points. Bean Bag Toss can be easily customized with different designs or themes, and it offers endless hours of fun and friendly competition during tailgating.
Bowling
Bowling is a classic game that can be easily recreated with a DIY twist for tailgating. You can set up a makeshift bowling alley using empty water bottles or plastic pins and a ball. Participants take turns rolling the ball towards the pins and aiming to knock down as many as possible. Bowling is a great DIY game that is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. It offers a fun and interactive way to get everyone involved and entertained during tailgating.
Classic Games with a Twist
Giant Twister
Giant Twister is a larger-than-life version of the popular game Twister, where players must follow commands and place their hands and feet on colored circles on a mat. In this version, the mat and circles are supersized, allowing for more players and more hilarious moments. Giant Twister is perfect for tailgating, as it can accommodate a large group of people and create a lively and interactive atmosphere. Playing Giant Twister adds an extra level of challenge and laughter to the game, making it an unforgettable experience at any tailgating event.
Giant Connect Four
Giant Connect Four takes the classic board game and transforms it into an outdoor spectacle. Players take turns dropping colored disks into a large vertical grid, aiming to connect four of their own color in a row. The giant version of Connect Four is perfect for tailgating, as it can be easily set up and enjoyed by people of all ages. The larger size adds excitement and strategy to the game, and it’s a fantastic way to engage and entertain guests during tailgating.
Giant Pong
Giant Pong is a super-sized version of the beloved party game Beer Pong. Instead of using cups and ping pong balls, players toss giant balls into oversized buckets. The objective is to land the ball in one of the buckets to score points. Giant Pong is a fun and interactive game that can be enjoyed by both players and spectators. It adds a unique twist to the classic game, making it a hit at any tailgating event. Whether you’re playing with friends or challenging rival tailgaters, Giant Pong is sure to bring excitement and laughter to your tailgating experience.
Kids’ Games
Face Painting
Face painting is a delightful activity that can keep kids entertained and spark their creativity during tailgating. Set up a face painting station with a variety of child-safe paints and brushes, and let the kids choose their favorite designs or sports-themed images to be painted on their faces. Face painting allows children to express themselves, engage with other kids, and feel part of the tailgating fun. It’s a joyous and engaging activity that will bring smiles to their faces and create lasting memories.
Balloon Animals
Balloon animals are another fantastic activity to keep children entertained during tailgating. A skilled balloon artist can create a whole menagerie of animals, from dogs and cats to dinosaurs and giraffes. Watching the balloon animals come to life is a magical experience for kids, and they can even take their creations home as a souvenir. Balloon animals add a whimsical element to tailgating events and provide a wonderful opportunity for kids to engage in imaginative play.
Sack Races
Sack races, as mentioned earlier, are not only fun for adults but also a great source of excitement for kids. Children can participate in their own sack races, hopping or jumping towards the finish line in oversized sacks. Sack races encourage motor skills, balance, and coordination in children while providing an enjoyable and lighthearted activity. Whether organized as a formal race or simply as a playful activity, sack races are sure to bring laughter and delight to kids at any tailgating event.
In conclusion, there is a wide range of inexpensive games and activities for tailgating that cater to various age groups and preferences. Whether you enjoy ball games, lawn games, water games, trivia games, or DIY activities, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained and engaged during tailgating. From the excitement of cornhole and Spikeball to the nostalgia of giant Twister and classic board games, there is something for everyone. So gather your friends, family, and fellow tailgaters, and get ready for endless hours of fun and laughter at your next tailgating event!