Looking for a fun way to add some excitement to your next adult only barbecue? We’ve got you covered.
From traditional party games to more creative activities (and a handful of drinking games), below are some of the best party games for your next backyard bash.
Whether you’re looking for a game that will get your guests laughing or one that will get them moving, read on to find out which games will make your next barbecue a hit!
Barbecue Party Games for Adults
Barbecue party games are a fun way to bring everyone together and keep the party going all day long.
If you’re looking for classic games or even new and innovative options, there are plenty of games to choose from.
From cornhole to giant Jenga, these games are perfect for adults and can be enjoyed by everyone at your next grown up barbecue.
1. Bocce Ball
A game where players toss balls to get as close to a target ball as possible.
Bocce ball is a game that combines strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck.
It’s played with brightly coloured balls and a smaller target ball (called the pallino). The object of the game is to get your balls as close to the pallino as possible.
Players take turns rolling their balls and can knock their opponents’ balls out of the way. The game is easy enough to learn but hard to master, and it’s always a hit at backyard barbecues and picnics.
2. Giant Connect Four
Giant Connect 4 is the oversized version of the classic game we all know and love.
It’s larger than life and twice as fun!
Players take turns dropping oversized checkers into the slots of a massive frame to try and connect four in a row.
It’s perfect for backyard barbecues, parties, and family gatherings.
Watch as the excitement builds with each move, and see who will be the first to connect four and claim victory!
3. Badminton
Badminton is a sport that’s all about smashing, diving, and having a good time.
It’s played with lightweight rackets and a shuttlecock that can soar through the air at dizzying speeds.
Players volley back and forth, trying to get the shuttlecock over the net without it touching the ground.
It’s a game that requires quick reflexes, precision, and a bit of showmanship. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or just a fun day at the park.
Get ready to serve up some excitement and have a smashing good time with badminton!
4. Volleyball
Volleyball is the ultimate team sport that brings people together for a day of fun in the sun.
It’s easy enough for anyone to play, even if they’re inexperienced.
I know it’s more of a beach sport than a garden activity, but if you’ve got a big enough space it’s worth setting up a game. Just be careful not to get too close to that lit BBQ!
5. Croquet
Croquet is the perfect game to play at your barbecue because it combines strategy, skill, and a whole lot of silliness.
You’ll be laughing and having fun as you navigate the wickets, trying to hit your ball through them and ultimately win the game.
It’s a game that’s easy to learn, but difficult to master, so it’s perfect for players of all skill levels. Plus, with its whimsical mallets and colorful balls, croquet adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any backyard party.
So grab your friends and family, don your best lawn attire, and get ready to have a smashing good time with croquet!
6. Giant Chess
Okay, so I’ve been looking at giant chess sets and they’re pricey. It’s still a great outdoor game, but you have to factor in that it’s a two player game.
If you’ve got enough guests, you can saver your money and play human chess for an interesting twist on this classic.
7. 5- a -side Football
Set up a small football field and play a game 5-a-side with friends.
It’s the perfect game to play at a British barbecue because everyone knows how to play and it’s suitable for all weather conditions. Let’s face it, the UK weather does give us some variety – even during BBQ season!
It’s a game that’s easy to set up and can be played by players of all skill levels, making it perfect for everyone at the party to join in.
So pick your team, brush up on your skills, and get ready to score some goals and make some memories .
8. Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee is a fast-paced, high-energy game that’s perfect for people who love to run, jump, and catch.
The rules are easy enough to grasp, so everyone can play!
Players must work together to advance the Frisbee down the field and score points.
9. Cards Against Humanity
A hilarious game that you probably can’t play with your posh aunt Lucinda.
Designed for adults only, because the content is a bit spicy, this game will have you laughing the night away.
Buy the big pack for endless fun.
10. Balloon Pop Relay
Divide into teams and race to pop balloons by sitting on them.
11. Pictionary
A game where players draw pictures to convey a word or phrase to their teammates.
12. Beer Olympics
A series of drinking games where teams compete to win gold, silver, and bronze medals.
I feel like there’s nothing more British than drinking games at a barbecue. I would advise that you always drink sensibly (especially in the hot sun).
13. Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest
See who can spit a watermelon seed the farthest.
Gross, I know, but people love this. It’s not one for me, but the husbands seem to enjoy it.
14. Limbo
A game where players try to pass under a bar without touching it.
Get an inflatable limbo game on Amazon.
15. Frisbee Golf
Set up a course with targets and try to get a frisbee into each target in as few throws as possible.
16. Charades
A game where players act out a word or phrase without speaking to their teammates.
17. Three-Legged Race
Tie two players’ legs together and race to the finish line.
18. Egg Toss
Toss a raw egg back and forth with a partner, taking a step back with each successful catch.
19. Karaoke
Set up a karaoke machine and sing your favourite songs with friends.
20. Corn Shucking Contest
See who can shuck the most corn the fastest.
21. Ring Toss
Toss rings onto pegs to score points.
22. Photo Booth
Set up a photo booth with props and backdrops for guests to take fun photos.
23. Giant Draughts
Use larger pieces to make a giant checkerboard and play a game of checkers.
24. Human Knot
Stand in a circle and hold hands, then try to untangle the knot without letting go.
25. Relay Races
Set up various relay races, such as a balloon race, a sack race, or a spoon and egg race.
26. Movie Trivia
Create a trivia game about popular movies.
27. Beat That!
This family fun game promises a bonkers battle of wacky challenges.
28. Giant Pick-Up Sticks
Use larger sticks to make a giant pick-up sticks game.
29. Water Balloon Dodgeball
Play a game of dodgeball with water balloons.
30. Giant Tic Tac Toe
Use larger pieces to make a giant tic tac toe board and try to get three in a row.
31. Minute to Win It Games
Set up various minute to win it games, such as stacking cups, cookie face, or cup and ball.
32. Blindfolded Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course and blindfold a player to see if they can complete it.
33. Giant Kerplunk
Use larger pieces to make a giant Kerplunk game.
34. Name That Tune
Play a game where guests try to guess the name of a song after hearing just a few seconds of it
35. Cornhole
A classic bean bag toss game that’s perfect for outdoor parties.
36. Giant Jenga
Use larger blocks to make a giant Jenga tower, and take turns pulling out pieces without making it fall.
37. Beer Pong
Set up a table and cups, and try to bounce ping pong balls into the opposing team’s cups.
Always drink responsibly. Alternatively, if you want the sports but not the beer, fill your cups with water.
38. Kan Jam
A frisbee game where teams try to throw the disc into a can.
39. Horseshoes
A classic game where players try to toss horseshoes onto a stake in the ground.
40. Spikeball
A four-player game where teams bounce a ball off a circular net.
41. Lawn Twister
Use spray paint to make a giant Twister board on the lawn.
42. Washers
A game where players toss washers into a box or hole.
43. Water Balloon Toss
Teams toss water balloons back and forth, taking a step back with each successful catch.
Be kind to the environment and buy some reusable water balloons.
44. Flip Cup
Another team-based drinking game where players race to drink and flip a cup upside down before the next person in line.
45. Sack Race
Go oldschool and hold a sack race in your back garden. You could buy just the sacks, or invest in a full sports day kit for even more fun.
46. Egg & Spoon Race
An oldie but a goody. An egg and spoon race is always a funny way to spend a sunny afternoon. Plus, if you’re the host, you can boil your egg so you never lose!