Spending time outdoors with your friends and family is not just fun. But also a great way of building lasting memories on your vacations. However, if you are not ready to travel far, having a dedicated outdoor games space in your backyard or local park will give you hours of fun, physical activity, and quality time for the whole family. So, from old-school lawn games to modern twists on the classics, there’s something for everyone. And you can have a vacation games galore right in your backyard.
So, in this post, we will cover outdoor games and activities. How to set up your outdoor games space. And the benefits of outdoor play for all ages. But, before we get started, if you are wondering why we are writing about it, instead of travel. Well, with the elder kid in middle school, its all the more tactical to plan out vacations this year onwards. So, while travelling with kids remains a priority, we are also exploring other ways to create the vacation feel at home. And thats when we thought to write this piece. As we are sure it will resonate with many of you. With that, lets get started.
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How to Set Up Your Outdoor Space for your vacation games galore
Before we get into the games properly, it’s important you know the layout. And prep that works best for your outdoor space. Whether you have a big backyard or a small patch of grass. You can create a fun space for family time. So, start by surveying your area. And dividing it into zones for different types of games. For example, you might have a flat grassy area for lawn games. Or, a paved section for games that need a hard surface. And a shaded area for board games or puzzles on hot days.
If you have the space you can install a permanent feature like a kid-friendly composite decking. It is manufactured through a mixture of plastic and wood materials. Also, this type of decking board is designed not to retain heat for a long period. Thus, making it a hazard-free option for your kids to run around on.
Next, think about storage for your game equipment. As, a weatherproof storage box or shed will keep everything tidy and protected from the elements. Also, for more convenience put the storage area near your playing zones.
Last but not the least, lighting is another thing to consider. Especially if you plan on playing in the evening. Solar-powered pathway lights or string lights will create a warm and cozy atmosphere. And extend your playtime well into the night.
Outdoor Game Ideas for the Family
Now that we have discussed about the settings and what you will require to prep the area. Here are some cool outdoor games to play with your friends and family on vacation. You can easily convert many of these into beach vacation games. Or summer vacation games.
Life-Size Board Games
We all have played board games as families, isn’t it. In fact, we have even carried some on our vacations. Particularly relaxing vacations like our staycation in Jim Corbett National Park sometime back. But, did you know that many of your favourite board games are available in giant outdoor sizes. Simply look on Amazon for the giant versions of Jenga, Connect 4, Tic-Tac-Toe, and even Chess. Get some of your favourites in the giant sizes. And then set up games on a table under a shady parasol or cabana so everyone can stay cool while they plan their next move. Moreover, most of these games are easy for all ages but are also a great way for little minds to develop strategic thinking. Making them idle choice for a vacation games galore.
Spikeball
Spikeball is similar to volleyball. In the sense that one person from a team throws a rubber ball on a net. And the other team can use 3 alternating touches to get the ball back onto the net. Just like how a team of two works to get a ball back over the net in volleyball. If you have an outside space where you can set it up, nothing like that. It makes for one of our top choices for a vacation games galore.
Tug of War
A game like Tug of war is great for large groups of all ages. And all you need for the game is a long rope and a big grassy or sandy area. Start the setup for the game by marking a line on the ground that will be the middle line and divide your family into two teams. If you have a mix of ages and abilities, put the stronger, older kids on the outside and younger kids in the middle. And thats it! You are set to roll your vacation game galore with a tug of war.
Once the game starts everyone pulls as hard as they can on the rope to try to pull the other team across the middle line. And the team wins if they can pull the whole other team across.
Keep It Up Balloon Game
No party is complete without balloons. And they provide a great opportunity for a game beyond just being party decorations. So, save some of your balloons for a classic game of keep it up. And, you’ll get caught up in the game as you try to beat your records for how many hits it takes to keep the balloon up in the air! Again, it doesn’t require too much space to start a balloon game. But, it is so much fun for the entire family once we get started on it.
Four-Legged Team Races
Another perfect entry for a vacation games galore, Four-legged races are so much fun and this one has a twist with four people on a team at a time. It is great for bigger groups and kids and adults can work together. And you’ll be laughing your heart out as you waddle to the finish line! Since, it is something that doesn’t require much equipments other than just tying the legs, you can play this game easily anytime on your vacation. As long as your accommodation has a small outdoor space like a lawn or field.
Conclusion
A fun and active space for the whole family outdoors is an investment in health, happiness, and togetherness. Although now a days indoor games like chess, carom, card games, housie etc. are much more popular. But, by having a variety of outdoor games that cater to different interests, skill levels, and age groups you’ll always have something to play in your outdoor game area. Rotate games and introduce new ones regularly to keep the space fresh. Ask family members to suggest new games or variations on existing ones to give them ownership and creativity in the outdoor play area.
Whats more? Play some of these games on your next vacation. Or, if you are home, order some food on your vacation games galore evening or night. And cozy up to that exact vacation feel right in the comfort of your home. With an outdoor game space and a bunch of activities, you will have fun with your family no matter the season or weather. Now get the family together and get outside and play!