24 Tailgate Games the Whole Family Can Play
The only thing better than going to the big game is playing one of these tailgate games first.
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We know you love football—and we do too—but let's just take a minute to reflect on what's really the best part about watching the big game: all the tailgating that happens beforehand! There are a few important elements to throwing the perfect tailgate. First, there's the easy tailgating recipe ideas. Once you have perfected the balance between healthy Fall recipes and easy chicken wing recipes, it's time to plan the tailgating activities. And if you're keeping your tailgate festivities at home this year, all of these games are backyard-friendly. We've rounded up our absolute favorites that fit right in with your football decorations. Each has the potential to bring your group closer together while maximizing the excitement of the entire day. And yes, if we do say so ourselves, these games really just might steal the show. Jumbo-size versions of checkers, dominoes, and Connect 4 allow you to play the games you've always loved in a bigger, more inclusive way, while newer additions to the roster of the best tailgate games give you a chance for some fresh fun (think: steel ladderball games and "Trick Tac Toe"). A little (healthy!) competition never hurt anybody; in fact, we have a feeling it'll only add to the exhilaration of the day.
This fun, high-energy game works just as well on the beach as at a tailgate. Players team up to serve the ball against the net and hit it back to a partner.
Frustrating, yet fun! Try to hook the ring on the hook.
Why reserve paddle boards for the beach? This fun game can be played anywhere!
This washer toss is portable and decorated with a beautiful quilt motif.
Similar to beer pong, this game comes with a carrying case for easy transport. This edition comes with three types of balls: the tailgate balls don't bounce, so you won't be chasing them around the parking lot.
This fun new game will bring out your competitive side with its combination of horseshoes, bocce, and bowling.
This simple set makes a statement at the tailgate. The sturdy birch and poplar boards are paired with corn-filled bags.
Before you watch the big game, show off your skills with this mesh football-throwing game.
A simple game of giant dominoes is perfect for a tailgate. You don't have to worry about balls and rackets flying off into someone else's cookout area, for one thing!
Is your tailgate taking place closer to the evening hours? Then you need to check out this light-up lawn darts game. It's just as fun as the original, but with the addition of glow-in-the-dark details.
Whether you're paying attention or are a bit distracted by all the delicious food, you'll be able to enjoy this fun, classic ladderball game where scoring is built right in.
We love the idea of setting this giant checkers game out in a grassy area. Not only does it upgrade a classic family game, but it's also a nice way to keep everyone in one place at your tailgate gathering.
It's the Jenga game you know and love, but the blocks are just a bit bigger. So even if you're stuck over at the grill, you'll be able to watch the action from afar.
How cool is this? The super-size version of everyone's favorite vertical "board game" is the perfect addition to any grown-up tailgate outing.
What's more fun than a good old-fashioned game of Frisbee, you ask? One with higher stakes, that's what. This game involves hitting a target off of a pole, and it's every bit as fun as it sounds.
Use these magnified dice to play pretty much any game you would with their smaller equivalent...or play Yardzee, for which the instructions are included.
Field Goal Washers
Make a football-themed ring toss with a DIY field goal post and washers.
Get the tutorial at Sugar and Cloth.
Champion Sports Rubber Horseshoe Set
Easy to pack and ideal for kids, these rubber horseshoes are the perfect game to play with your tailgating crew.
This game couldn't be simpler (or easier to assemble). Throw footballs through the holes, or use discs on the top or bottom openings for a slightly more challenging experience.
DIY Plinko Game
Bring the classic Price is Right game to your backyard with this DIY foam board.
Get the tutorial at Happiness is Homemade.
Jennifer Aldrich was the editorial assistant for CountryLiving.com.
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