Are you planning the unofficial start to the summer event and searching for Memorial Day games to keep everyone entertained and having a good time? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got you covered with tons of fun ideas to keep guests of all ages entertained during the whole party.
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Memorial Day is more than just a day off—it’s a meaningful time to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
It’s also a chance to gather with those closest to you, sharing stories, laughter, and memories that remind us of what we hold dear.
Hosting or playing themed games brings a special kind of joy to the day, making it about connection and celebrating life while reflecting on its deeper significance.
Whether you’re planning a big backyard bash with friends and tons of family for the unofficial start of summer or a cozy afternoon picnic with close family, adding some fun Memorial Day party games and activities can turn your holiday event into something truly unforgettable.
So, grab a snack, settle in, and let’s get started planning your event!
Traditional Outdoor Memorial Day Games
When it comes to Memorial Day, nothing says “let’s celebrate together” quite like a lineup of classic outdoor games.
They’re simple, nostalgic, and perfect for bonding with friends and family.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just enjoying the warm weather with a Memorial Day pool party, these activities bring people together for a memorable day.
Here are a few ideas to plan for your holiday party!
Cornhole
Cornhole has become a Memorial Day favorite for a good reason—it’s easy to set up, fun for all ages and doesn’t take much equipment.
All you need are two boards with holes and a few bean bags.
You can even make your own setup with some spare wood if you’re feeling crafty.
If you want to add a festive touch, grab some patriotic cornhole boards in red, white, and blue.
With cornhole, everyone has a shot at being a backyard champ.
The game is straightforward: players take turns tossing bean bags at the opposing board, aiming to land in the hole or on the board for points.
The first team to hit 21 points usually wins, which keeps things competitive but casual.
Sack Races
There’s a reason sack races are a go-to for outdoor events—they’re hilarious to watch and even more fun to participate in.
For Memorial Day, they’re an easy crowd-pleaser that gets everyone laughing and moving.
All you need are a few sacks to get the games started.
Here’s how you host:
- Mark a start and finish line (use cones, tape, or even sticks from the yard).
- Have participants step into their bags, holding them securely at waist height.
- When you yell “Go!”, racers hop their way to the finish line.
To keep it inclusive, set up races for different age groups or make it a team relay.
Three-Legged Race
If you’re looking for a game to encourage teamwork (and plenty of laughs), the three-legged race is a must-try.
Grab some 3 legged race bands, then, pair up your guests and tie their inner legs together so they can “share” one leg as they run.
Here are a few quick tips:
- Safety first: Make sure the ties aren’t too tight or uncomfortable, and keep the race area free of hazards.
- Pick a good track: Grass is ideal since it’s softer for inevitable stumbles.
- Add a twist: Create a zigzag course with obstacles, or have teams carry something fragile (like a water balloon) for an extra challenge.
This game is sure to spark some friendly competition for guests of all ages.
Capture the Flag
If you’ve got a group of active guests, Capture the Flag is a larger-scale game that provides hours of fun.
It’s like a mini adventure wrapped up in a competitive package.
You’ll need two flags—bandanas, small towels, or even t-shirts work fine—and a decently sized play area – you can also grab a glow-in-the-dark version for late-night fun!
To play:
- Divide the group into two teams and mark a boundary line straight down the middle of the field or yard.
- Each team hides their flag somewhere on their side of the boundary.
- The goal? Cross into enemy territory, grab their flag, and bring it back to your side without being tagged by an opponent.
Players tagged in enemy territory go to a designated “jail” and can only rejoin their team if one of their teammates tags them.
It’s high-energy, strategic, and perfect for getting everyone involved.
Water Balloon Toss
Memorial Day often brings sunny skies and warm temperatures, which makes a water balloon toss the perfect way to cool off while having fun.
These are incredibly easy to set up with just a few water balloons, which you can fill in quickly.
Once everyone has a partner, have each pair stand a short distance apart.
The rules are simple: toss the water balloon back and forth.
After each successful toss, both players take a step backward.
The pair whose balloon lasts the longest without bursting wins.
Pool Party Games
For your Memorial Day event, why not make a splash with an unforgettable pool party filled with games and activities?
Transform your backyard into a patriotic paradise by decorating the pool area with red, white, and blue floaties, balloons, and themed decorations.
Keep your guests entertained with classic pool games such as:
Marco Polo
A classic pool game where one player closes their eyes and tries to tag other players by calling out “Marco” while they respond with “Polo” without leaving the pool.
Water Volleyball
Set up a net across the pool and divide players into teams for a fun game of volleyball with a splashy twist.
Water Obstacle Course
Create a water obstacle course where guests can race against each other or simply navigate the course for fun.
Water Basketball
Install a floating basketball hoop in the pool and have guests shoot hoops while treading water or from the pool deck.
Mermaid Races
Encourage guests to swim like mermaids or mermen from one end of the pool to the other, using their best underwater swimming techniques.
Splash Tag
A variation of tag where the person who is “it” tries to tag other players by splashing them with water.
Inflatable Bull Riding Contest
Set up an inflatable bull or animal float in the pool and see who can stay on the longest.
Underwater Treasure Hunt
Toss coins or small toys into the pool and have guests dive to collect them. The person who retrieves the most treasures wins a prize.
Family-Friendly Tabletop and Printable Games
Not everyone is up for running around the yard or facing the summer heat, and that’s okay!
Memorial Day fun isn’t just limited to physical activities.
Bringing the celebration around a table opens up even more options for unique and cool party games.
Here are some Memorial Day-themed party games to set up!
Patriotic Trivia
Why not test everyone’s knowledge with a trivia game that’s both fun and educational?
A patriotic trivia game centered on U.S. history and Memorial Day is a fantastic way to honor the holiday while keeping everyone engaged in the party.
Easily (and quickly) download some Memorial Day printable games and you’re all set to hand out some activities for guests.
Memorial Day Bingo
Memorial Day Bingo is a laid-back, crowd-pleasing game that’s perfect for players of all ages!
You can easily grab some printable bingo cards filled with patriotic items like flags, BBQ grills, sparklers, sunglasses, stars, and red-white-and-blue treats.
It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while the adults relax—or better yet, get everyone involved for a little friendly competition.
Memorial Day Charades
Charades are always a hit at gatherings, but giving it a patriotic twist makes it even more fitting for Memorial Day.
This game blends education with entertainment, honoring the holiday in a way that’s both fun and meaningful.
Just grab a Memorial Day charades digital download printable game and easily (and budget-friendly) get the games started!
Board Games for All Ages
Board games are classics for a reason.
They’re simple to set up and loved by (just about) everyone, no matter their age.
Here are a few family-friendly options:
- America-opoly: Grab a themed Monopoly game for a twist on the traditional version.
- Charades: Keep it holiday-themed with prompts like “fireworks,” “parades,” or “saluting a soldier.”
- Scrabble: Use patriotic words like “freedom,” “flag,” or “valor” for bonus points.
For Memorial Day, you can keep things traditional with board games like these or put a creative spin on your favorites by giving them a patriotic flair.
Fun Competition Games
Team-based games are a fantastic way to bring people together, sparking camaraderie and a little friendly rivalry.
Whether you’re hosting family, friends, or a mix of both, these activities infuse Memorial Day with fun and connection.
Plus, they’re flexible enough to engage people of all skill levels, making sure no one feels left out.
Tug of War
Tug of War is a timeless and exhilarating team game that’s sure to get everyone pumped up.
It’s easy to organize, works for groups of all ages, and only requires a few materials to set the stage for epic fun.
Here’s how to get started:
- Materials Needed: A rope that is thick enough for a good grip. You’ll also need a marker to designate the center of the rope like a cloth tied at its midpoint, and cones or chalk to mark the lines on the ground.
- Setting Up: Divide players into two even teams, making sure there’s a good balance of strength on each side. Line them up along the rope and place the center marker above the boundary line. The goal? Pull the other team across your side of the boundary to win!
- Safety Tips: Always ensure there’s plenty of open space around the teams and use soft, even ground, like grass or sand.
For added excitement, make it a best-of-three match or create a mini-tournament if you have multiple groups.
You could even up the stakes by having the winning team face off against a “champion” squad.
Set up a Limbo Stick
Limbo is the perfect Memorial Day game to get everyone up and moving—kids, adults, and everyone in between.
All you need is a limbo stick and some upbeat tunes to set the mood.
One by one, guests shimmy under the bar, leaning back and showing off their best moves—just remember, knees bent, backs arched, and no hands on the ground!
Lower the bar a little after each round until only one flexible champion remains.
It’s silly, it’s energetic, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your backyard bash!
Relay Races with Patriotic Challenges
One of the best ways to get everyone laughing and moving on Memorial Day is to host a good old-fashioned relay race!
It’s the perfect all-ages activity—kids, teens, parents, and even grandparents can join in on the fun.
Here are a few ideas to set up:
Classic Baton Relay
Split your guests into teams and have them run a simple back-and-forth race, passing a baton—or get creative with a flag or pool noodle! This one’s easy to organize, great for all ages, and brings out everyone’s competitive side.
Crab Walk Relay
Get ready to laugh! Players must crab walk (hands and feet on the ground, belly up) from one end of the yard to the other before tagging the next person. It’s a great workout and super entertaining to watch. Kids especially love this goofy race!
Egg and Spoon Relay
Balance is the name of the game! Each player must carry an egg (hard wooden eggs are less mess) on a spoon from one point to another without dropping it, then pass it off to the next teammate. It’s hilarious, tricky, and guaranteed to cause giggles—especially when those eggs start wobbling.
Lawn Games
Enjoy some family-friendly competition with a selection of lawn games.
These activities not only provide entertainment but also create some friendly competition among your friends and family.
Here is a list of some fun lawn games to set up.
Giant Jenga
Stack oversized wooden blocks and take turns removing one block at a time without toppling the tower.
Ladder Toss
Players throw bolas (two balls connected by a string) at a ladder-shaped target, aiming to wrap them around the rungs for points.
Kan Jam
Teams take turns throwing a frisbee at a can while their partner tries to deflect or slam the frisbee into the can.
Giant Four in a Row
A supersized version of the classic game where players take turns dropping colored disks into a vertical frame, aiming to get four in a row.
Giant Twister
Create a DIY version of Twister using spray paint to make colorful circles on your lawn. Guests will have a blast trying to contort themselves to match the calls.
Giant Tic-Tac-Toe
Draw a large tic-tac-toe grid on a tarp or use rope on the lawn. Provide large X and O pieces for players to place as they try to get three in a row.
Horseshoes
Set up stakes in the ground and have players take turns tossing horseshoes, aiming to land them around the stake for points.
Bubble Soccer
Rent or purchase inflatable bubble suits for guests to wear while playing a game of soccer. The bubbles add an extra layer of fun and hilarity to the game.
Glow-in-the-Dark Lawn Games
As the sun sets, switch to glow-in-the-dark versions of games like ring toss, frisbee, or lawn bowling by adding glow sticks to the equipment.
Hula Hoop Ring Toss
Set up a series of stakes or poles at varying distances in your yard. Each stake has a different point value. Players take turns tossing hula hoops, aiming to land them around the stakes. The closer they get to the target stake, the more points they earn.
Balloon Dart Board
Inflate different colors of balloons like red, white, and blue balloons, and attach them to a corkboard or wooden backdrop. Players take turns throwing darts to pop the balloons and earn points.
Host a Mini Olympics
Turn your backyard into an Olympic stadium with a series of lighthearted competitions inspired by American history and patriotism.
This setup is perfect for groups of all sizes and allows everyone to showcase different skills.
Here’s how to pull it off:
Choose Events: Think of a mix of physical and skill-based games so there’s something for everyone. Ideas include:
Red, White, and Blue Flying Disc
Use frisbees decorated with stars and stripes and see who can throw the farthest.
Star-Spangled Sprint
Short-distance races where participants wear fun accessories, like carrying a small American flag.
Ring Toss
Set up bottles or cones as targets and provide rings. Pro-tip: Add chalk lines to mark distances for varying skill levels.
Make it Festive
Hand out medals or ribbons featuring red, white, and blue designs. You can also add a ceremonial “torch run” using flashlights wrapped in tissue paper to kick off the competition.
Final Thoughts
As the laughter winds down and the last game is played, it’s important to pause and reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day.
While it’s often seen as the unofficial start of summer—a time for backyard BBQs, poolside fun, and games with family and friends—at its heart, this day is about honoring and remembering the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
So as we celebrate together, let’s carry a sense of gratitude with us—cherishing the freedoms we enjoy and the loved ones we get to spend time with.
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Your Turn
Do you have any Memorial Day games or activities to add to this list? Which party game is your favorite? Let me know in the comments.
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