Summer is all about sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re throwing a backyard bash, a beach picnic, or a poolside party, adding some exciting games will keep the energy high and the fun going.
But what are the best games to play? You need something engaging, easy to set up, and perfect for all ages. That’s exactly what you’ll find in this list of 23 amazing summer party games. From water challenges to hilarious backyard competitions, these games will have everyone laughing, bonding, and making the most of summer!
Water Games to Beat the Heat
1. Water Balloon Volleyball
This isn’t your ordinary volleyball game—it’s a splashy twist! Teams pair up and use a large towel to toss a water balloon over the net. The goal is to catch the balloon without letting it burst, adding a fun challenge.
If the balloon drops or bursts, the other team scores a point. This game guarantees laughter, teamwork, and a refreshing splash in every round, making it perfect for hot summer days.
2. Slip ‘N Slide Relay Race
Why run when you can slide your way to victory? Set up a long slip ‘n slide in the yard and divide players into teams. Each participant slides down, races back, and tags the next teammate.
The first team to finish wins the race and the bragging rights! Adding a little dish soap to the slide makes it extra slippery and way more fun.
3. Sponge Soaker Tag
Tag just got a lot wetter and wilder! Instead of tagging with hands, players use a soaking wet sponge to tag others. The first person hit with the sponge becomes the next “it.”
This game keeps the action fast, the players cool, and the fun non-stop. It’s an easy way to stay active while enjoying the summer heat.
4. Pool Noodle Jousting
Who will be the last one floating? Two players sit on inflatable pool rafts and use pool noodles to try and knock each other off. The one who stays on longer wins!
This game is all about balance, laughter, and hilarious wipeouts. It’s a guaranteed hit for any pool party.
Classic Backyard Games with a Fun Twist
5. Giant Jenga with Dares
Jenga is fun, but adding hilarious dares takes it to another level! Write fun challenges on each block, like “Sing a song” or “Do ten jumping jacks,” to make every turn exciting.
As the tower gets taller, the dares get even more intense. This game is perfect for all ages and makes every party more fun.
6. Frisbee Tic-Tac-Toe
A throwing challenge with a strategy twist keeps everyone engaged. Draw a tic-tac-toe grid on the lawn and have players toss frisbees to land in the squares.
The first to get three in a row wins the game! It’s a test of both skill and accuracy, making it a fun and competitive choice.
7. Cornhole Splash Edition
Cornhole is fun, but playing with water balloons makes it even better! Instead of traditional bean bags, players toss water balloons toward the holes in the board.
Each successful shot means a splash for the opponent! The game becomes more exciting and unpredictable as players try to aim without getting drenched.
Hilarious Group Games
8. Watermelon Eating Contest
Nothing says summer like juicy watermelon races! Each player gets a big slice but must eat it without using their hands. The first person to finish wins the challenge.
This game is messy, hilarious, and delicious all at the same time. Watching people struggle to eat quickly makes it even funnier.
9. Pass the Ice Cube
Can you handle the chill of this game? Players stand in a line and pass an ice cube using only their necks and chins. If the ice cube drops, the team has to start over.
This challenge is all about teamwork and endurance. The melting ice makes it even trickier, leading to tons of laughter.
10. Lemon on a Spoon Race
Balancing a lemon on a spoon is harder than it sounds! Players must hold a spoon with a lemon and race to the finish without dropping it.
If the lemon falls, they must start over! This game tests both balance and patience, making it a great choice for all ages.
Exciting Pool Party Games
11. Floating Treasure Hunt
Turn your pool into a treasure-filled adventure! Toss various floating objects into the water, some worth more points than others.
Players must collect as many as possible within a set time limit. The one with the most points wins the game!
12. Shark Attack
This game will have everyone paddling fast! One person is the shark, and the others are swimmers trying to escape. The shark must tag as many swimmers as possible before they reach a safe zone.
The last swimmer left wins! It’s a game full of fast moves and exciting chases.
Games for Kids & Families
13. Backyard Obstacle Course
Creating a mini adventure zone makes for an exciting challenge. Use cones, hula hoops, ladders, and pool noodles to set up a fun course.
Players must jump, crawl, and zigzag through the obstacles. The fastest time wins the challenge!
14. Bubble Pop Race
Who can pop the most bubbles in one minute? Blow a bunch of bubbles into the air and let kids chase and pop as many as they can.
This game is super easy and perfect for younger children. The joy of popping bubbles keeps them engaged.
15. DIY Ice Cream Relay
Racing while balancing ice cream? Sounds fun! Players must carry a scoop of ice cream in a cone while running toward the finish line.
If they drop it, they have to start over! The winner gets extra toppings on their ice cream as a prize.
Creative Lawn Games
16. Lawn Bowling with Soda Bottles
Transform your backyard into a DIY bowling alley! Fill empty soda bottles with a little water to weigh them down.
Players take turns rolling a soccer ball to knock them down. The highest scorer wins the round!
17. Kick the Can
This game is a classic mix of hide-and-seek and tag! One player guards a can, while others try to sneak up and kick it over without getting caught.
If a player is tagged, they’re out! It’s a game full of suspense and excitement.
Crazy Fun Team Games
18. Tug-of-War with a Water Pit
Tug-of-war is already exciting, but adding a water pit makes it even more intense! Set up a small inflatable pool or a muddy pit in the middle of the playing area. Each team grabs opposite ends of the rope and pulls with all their strength.
The losing team gets dragged into the water, making it a hilarious and refreshing way to cool off. This game is all about teamwork, strength, and lots of laughter as players struggle to stay dry.
19. Musical Sprinkler Freeze
Dancing and sprinklers? The perfect summer combo! Turn on a sprinkler while the music plays and let everyone dance around in the water. When the music stops, everyone must freeze instantly.
If someone keeps moving, they are out of the game! The last player standing wins, making this a fun and refreshing twist on musical chairs.
20. Beach Ball Keep-It-Up
Keeping a beach ball in the air sounds easy, right? Well, not when everyone is trying at the same time! Players must work together to keep the ball from touching the ground using only their hands.
For an extra challenge, add more balls into the mix and watch the chaos unfold! This game is simple, entertaining, and great for all ages, making it a perfect party activity.
21. Glow Stick Ring Toss
When the sun sets, the fun doesn’t have to stop! Set up a ring toss game using glow-in-the-dark rings and bottles. The glowing effect adds a magical touch to a classic game.
Players take turns tossing the rings onto the targets, and the one with the most successful throws wins. It’s a great way to keep the party going after dark while adding a touch of summer night magic.
22. Firefly Tag
Tag becomes extra fun and exciting when you add glow sticks! Each player wears glow stick bracelets or necklaces, and the tagger tries to catch the glowing “fireflies”. The last person to get tagged becomes the next “it.”
The glowing lights create an exciting chase in the dark, making this a thrilling game for kids and adults alike. The more players, the more fun the game becomes!
23. Flashlight Hide & Seek
Hide and seek takes on a new twist in the dark! One person becomes the seeker and uses a flashlight to find the hidden players. As soon as a person is spotted, they’re out!
The last person left hiding wins the game. This game is perfect for ending a summer night with a fun, suspenseful, and unforgettable activity. It’s an easy way to keep the party going even after the sun goes down!
Final Thoughts
Summer parties aren’t just about food and drinks—they’re about creating lasting memories with friends and family. These 23 summer party games are designed to bring excitement, laughter, and friendly competition to any gathering, whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a poolside fiesta, or a beach celebration.
So, which game will you try first? Grab your friends, set up the fun, and let the summer good times roll!