True fans know that the events before the big game are really what everyone comes for. Whether held in the parking lot or the grassy areas near the stadiums, tailgate party games bring an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the event’s festivities. Offering a fun way to pass the time while fostering friendly competition, tailgate games are a quintessential part of the game day experience. Check out our top picks.
Cornhole
Cornhole is a crowd favorite! The game involves tossing bean bags onto a raised platform with a hole, requiring minimal setup and space, making it ideal for tailgating environments. The ZENY Portable Cornhole Set has a sturdy construction: medium-density fiberboard surface with high-strength aluminum frame for durability. The boards can be fold up and locked into place for convenience during travel or for storage. But when its game time, extend those boards (which run 4×2 ft) and break out the eight colored bean bags (four for each team).
Kan Jam
Combining elements of frisbee throwing and teamwork, coordination and communication is a must with this game. Two teams of two players each taking turns throwing and deflecting a frisbee into the can sounds easy enough but it’s actually a bit of a challenge! Included in this set are two Kan Jam goals, serving as the disc golf basket, and one regulation weight Kan Jam flying disk. (The disc golf basket compact design folds down flat and tucks away.) Game ends at 12 points.
Ladder Toss
Most people enjoy ladder toss for its straightforward concept. While it may require a bit of skill and strategy, any age can play it. The objective is to toss bolas (two balls connected by a string) onto a three-rung ladder, with each rung offering different point values. This set includes two targets with score trackers, six rubber bolos, and a carrying case. The PVC targets—which happen to be 50% thicker than most other brands— are pre-glued so assembly takes under 2 minutes, and the soft rubber bolos are kid-friendly.
Jumbo Pong
Whether you play with beer or water, pong always brings out the best (and competitiveness) in people. Toss the ping pong ball across a table with the aim of landing it in one of several cups of beer or another beverage arranged in a triangular formation on the opposite end. This set happens to have adjustable targets that can become tiered in seconds. By changing the targets from a flat surface to multi-level, you instantly differentiate this game from other pong games. Comes with two targets and four table tennis balls. Each target holds six 12-16oz plastic cups, which you’ll have to supply on your own.
Spikeball
With high energy and a fast-paced nature, onlookers can’t help but want to get in on the next round of this dynamic play. This game comes with three Spikeball balls, a Spikeball net, a drawstring bag, and a rulebook. You can set up your Spikeball game set and play Roundnet on pavement or grass, and you’ll want to assemble the round net by attaching it to the frame, ensuring it is taut and even. Try a simple two-versus-two, or spice things up once you get the hang of it and limit to three alternating touches before a team returns the ball to the net!