Top 7 Lawn Games To Play For Fourth Of July
The Fourth of July holiday is coming up and backyard barbecues are sure to be abundant. While food and good company are a great start to any celebration, it's always good to have a few games on hand if things get dull. Plus, who doesn't like a little competition? Here are a few games, ranked from worst to best that offer up some fun and won't require you to go indoors during your summer bash.
7. Croquet
Croquet falls last on the list because, although exclusively played outside, it was made popular by the very country this holiday celebrates our independence from – Great Britain. While the exact origins are bit muddy, it is known that the English made the game popular in the 1800s. Also, it takes up too much space. It generally requires a whole lawn. Plus, does anyone really know the rules of the game?
6. Horseshoes
Horseshoes ranks one higher than croquet because it is easier to set up. All you need is two stakes and four horseshoes. However, it stays lower on the list because only two people can play at a time, and it generally doesn't get competitive enough to engage an audience. Also, if drinks are involved at your fourth celebration, horseshoes could end up being a bit dangerous.
5. Beer Pong
This may be a controversial choice for many reasons. First, beer pong is a popular favorite among the American collegiate. Second, it may not be appropriate for all ages. (However, it can always be played with juice or water.) And third, it's not exclusively played outside. These all went into the decision to place it at number five, but mostly the third reason.
4. Bocce Ball
While another one that could get a bit risky if drinks are involved (those Bocce Balls can be heavy!), it can be played with plastic or lighter balls to avoid injuries. It may not be all-American, but it is pretty fun. It's also traditionally played on asphalt, making it easier for those without lawns to find a playing field.
3. Bags
Many may think that bags should be given the top spot, and while it is always good go-to lawn game, perhaps it deserves to be third for that exact reason. Everyone always plays bags. While fun, it's a bit overdone. It gets the number three spot, though, because the rules are easy, it doesn't require much space, set up is easy, team numbers can vary – meaning more people can play and you can customize your bag boards for the holiday.
2. Beersbee
True, like some of the lower choices it takes up a bit of space, it is a bit complicated, doesn't require a ton of players and may not be family-friendly (juice or water probably shouldn't substitute for this one). However, it was given the number two spot because it's not the typical party choice. Also, those who aren't playing will still be easily entertained by the action and it's very all-American.
1. Ladder Toss
It's challenging, it's competitive, it's played exclusively outside on any type of ground, team numbers can vary, it's entertaining for those that are just watching, it's of American origins and it's extremely fun.