There’s something about summer entertaining that invites a sense of playfulness. With sunshine, fresh air, and the joy of being together, it's the perfect setting for a little lighthearted fun.
Summer may still be in full swing, but whether you're planning a laid-back pool party or a more elegant outdoor evening party, there's more to think about than just the food. In my view, no warm-weather celebration feels complete without a few well-chosen outdoor games.
Maybe it’s the nostalgia of a bean bag toss or a spontaneous round of badminton, but outdoor games feel like a true summer staple. As my gatherings have grown a bit more grown-up over the years, I’ve come to see these games as more than just a bit of fun – they’re a smart hosting strategy.
Here are my favorite summer outdoor games to get the party started– and keep it going well into the evening.
Stylish, compact, and endlessly fun, this wooden ring toss set is perfect for effortless outdoor entertaining. Whether you're hosting in the garden or gathering with friends at the beach, its classic design suits any setting. Crafted from wood and neatly packed in a convenient carry bag, it’s easy to transport and quick to set up – making it an ideal addition to picnics, backyard parties, or casual afternoons in the sun.
Bring a touch of classic charm to your next outdoor gathering with this beautifully crafted croquet set. Whether you're playing refined matches at home or spirited games on the go, this set is designed for both style and portability. Tucked neatly into a durable black canvas carrying bag, it’s easy to take along to the park, beach, or campsite. The set features oak wood mallets accented with black rings, coordinating striped stakes, and balls in modern hues of red, olive, mustard, and blue – offering a fresh take on a timeless lawn game.
A timeless favorite for all ages, this classic cornhole toss set is designed for both indoor and outdoor play. It includes two boards and two sets of beanbags, offering everything you need for a casual competition or a lively backyard gathering.
Perfect for active gatherings and sunny weekends, this versatile set includes everything you need to enjoy both badminton and volleyball in one. Whether you're at home or heading to the park, it’s designed for easy setup and hours of fun.
A timeless favorite with a stylish twist, this oversized 4-in-a-row game adds a touch of charm to any outdoor gathering. Perfect for garden parties, family afternoons, or casual entertaining, it’s as fun as it is visually striking. Crafted with a chic, elevated design, this statement game set is both playful and decorative – and with a sale price currently available, it’s the perfect time to add it to your collection.
A true crowd-pleaser, this oversized party game is designed to bring everyone together. Perfect for outdoor entertaining, its larger-than-life scale ensures that guests of all ages can join in the fun. Available in two stylish colorways, the set includes a convenient travel case and a customized scoreboard – making it as practical as it is playful.
‘Games have a way of bringing people together,’ says style editor Devin Toolen. ‘Whether it’s a round of cornhole at a backyard barbecue or an energetic game of spikeball on the beach, they add a sense of connection and fun to any event. One of my favorite backyard games is ladder toss. This ladder toss set from Amazon is a fantastic buy. It’s incredibly easy to learn, and it's a great DIY project if you have some free time. All you need is a PVC pipe, twine, and golf balls.’
Style editor Julia Demer agrees. ‘Ping pong is another classic. Lately, I’ve been seeing outdoor setups that look like real furniture – Joola’s tables, for instance, could easily double as dining tables.’
Games are a great way to keep guests entertained between courses, encourage conversation, and help maintain the energy of the party well into the evening. And of course, they’re a perfect excuse to spend just a little more time soaking up the summer sun before thoughts turn to winding down for fall and winter.
Whether you're planning a family-friendly afternoon or an adults-only evening, the right game can elevate your gathering with ease. From casual lawn classics to larger group favorites, we’ve rounded up a few of our top outdoor games to inspire your next celebration – or a lazy summer weekend at home.
These six games have given me plenty of ideas for my next summer party – in fact, I think they'll be the perfect addition to my upcoming ice cream social.
