31 Tailgate Games To Include for Your Next Game Day in 2024

Tailgate games are integral to any pre-event bash, right up there with Super Bowl food, especially when it comes to one of America’s favorite sporting events, football. But what is a tailgate game? What games are good for a tailgate party? A tailgate game is simply an activity that boosts morale by engaging participants in a bit of friendly competition. 

According to History, tailgating can be traced back to “the fall harvest celebrations of ancient Greece and Rome.” Throughout time, tailgate games have been an important part of this tradition that has transcended time. They can serve as ice breaker games for any group newcomers or they can solidify who the strongest, fastest and, in some cases, most stylish competitors of the group are. Get a taste of what the real players feel on the field with interactive, engaging and challenging party games. 

Jump to Section 

• Tailgate Games for Adults
• Football Tailgate Games
• Indoor Tailgate Games
• Outdoor Tailgate Games
• Tailgate Games for Families
• Tailgate Party Games for the Office

Tailgate Games for Adults

1. Cornhole 

Cornhole is one of the fan-favorite tailgate games and one that brings everyone – even Ravens and Steeler fans – together. This easy-to-transport and easy-to-learn tailgate game adds a bit of friendly competition to the hangout. 

The gameplay is simple: in teams of two, members pair up and stand on opposite ends of the playing field, you should be facing your teammate. Each side takes turns trying to land bean bags on the opposing board, scoring the most points if it lands in the cornhole at the center of the board. Here’s how the scoring works:

• Earn one point for each bean bag that lands and remains on the board until the end of the round. 
• Earn three points for each bean bag that lands in the cornhole. 

The first team to reach 21 is victorious!

2. Lifesize Jenga

Wondering how to make a tailgate party fun? Try engaging your inner child with an activity that proves tailgate games for adults can be just as fun as those we adored as kids. One by one take turns removing larger-than-life wooden blocks from a balancing tower before placing them on the top, careful not to cause a topple. Only one hand can be used at a time for both removing and placing the blocks.

3. Beer Pong 

What do people do at a tailgate? Well, If you’re new to the spirit and community-building aspects of tailgating, you may be curious about the meaning of these classic tailgate games. In short, it generally describes an onslaught of casual and often competitive games that people play while waiting for the real competition to start. From college football to the NFL ranks, tailgate games are essential to a pregame experience that centers on togetherness and good-natured rivalry.

Speaking of college, beer pong is a popular party game. Break out the foldable table and arrange 10 cups (traditionally red solo cups) in a triangle formation at each end of the table. Fill each cup with a small amount of beer. Players or teams stand at opposite ends of the table and take turns tossing ping-pong balls at the opponent’s cups. Each time a ball lands in a cup, an opposing team member must drink its contents and remove it from the table. 

Replace the beer with a drink of your choosing for a non-alcoholic option.

4. Spikeball

A bit like four-square and a bit like volleyball, these tailgate games require quick reflexes to engage in high-energy rallies. Spikeball is typically played in teams of two. Players try their best to hit a small ball onto a round net on the ground, the opponent must then do the same. The goal is to ensure that the opponent cannot return the ball after it hits the net.

5. Flip Cup

Keeping party games for adults in mind, flip cup competitions are some more beer-lovers' favorite tailgate games. All you need for this team-based drinking game is an empty cup, a refreshment and the edge of a flat surface. Teams can be large or small as long as participants are divided equally. 

Two teams line up on opposite sides of a table, facing each other. Each player has a cup filled with the same predetermined amount of beer or beverage. The first players on each team drink the contents of their cups as fast as possible before placing the cup on the edge of the table (open end up). Gently — but quickly — they attempt to flip the cup so it lands face-side down, using only their fingers and one hand. The next player may begin after the first cup flips. This continues until every player on the team successfully flips their cup.

Once a team proves most fruitful in their flipping and all cups are upturned, they are granted bragging rights for the rest of the game day – unless their chosen team loses the real game. 

6. Kan Jam

Great for beach outings and backyard gatherings, these fast-paced tailgate games challenge players to work together. Kan jam is a favorite among sports fans of all ages for its dynamic gameplay. Two teams of two players each take turns tossing a frisbee towards two large cans approximately 40 to 50 feet apart. 

Note: These cans must be open at the top with a slit in the middle. You can buy the trademarked Kan Jam game, which comes with the branded cans. Or save money and DIY the cans yourself if you have any large pales/trash cans lying around. 

To begin, one player throws the frisbee towards the opposing can where their teammates await the opportunity to gain a point or two. Here’s how the scoring of Kan Jam works:

• Earn one point if your partner deflects the frisbee to hit the side of the can.
• Earn two points if you hit the can without any help from your teammate. 
• Earn three points if your partner deflects the frisbee into the top of the can.
• Instantly win the game if you throw the frisbee into the slot unassisted. 

Football Tailgate Games

7. Two-Hand Touch

Initiate a pick-up game perfect for a tailgating event in the park. These tailgate games inspired by traditional American football are called two-hand touch. But don’t worry, you can add this one to your list of safe football tailgate games. Play football as you normally would, but instead of tackling your opponents to the ground, you will stop the ball carrier by touching them with two hands.

8. Football Trivia

If you’re looking for a tailgate game, but without the physical contact, consider football trivia. Team-huddle the family together for a rousing game that’s sure to prove who the real number one fan is. Keep the trivia questions general with gameplay-specific questions or cater to your audience with team-specific stats.

9. Tire Toss

These classic football tailgate games are rudimentary in the best way. If you’re hosting a tailgate game event at your home, you may be able to find the perfect tire-hanging tree for this gameplay. Simply compete to see who can toss a football through a tire swing. With each toss, opponents will move further and further away from the swing, until there’s only one person left standing.

10. End Zone Dance Contest

It’s important to remember that not all guests at the tailgate are particularly skilled at sports, which is what makes an end zone dance contest a great tailgate game that everyone can play. After picking a judge, one by one, participants will demonstrate their best end zone dance in a laugh-out-loud competition. Whether they’re replicating their favorite player’s moves or coming up with whole new choreography, participants will let loose and have fun. 

11. Longest Punt 

Put your strength to the test in these thrilling tailgate games. In the longest punch challenge, participants do their best to channel the greatest NFL punters of all time like Dave Jennings and Donnie Jones. Just be sure to find an open space like a field or a large parking lot where you can safely punt the football.

12. Catch Challenge 

These tailgate games are what you make them. Pair off in teams of two and take turns throwing and catching the football. Gradually begin leveling up the difficulty by increasing the distance between each throw, adding obstacles or creating rules such as players can only catch with one hand.

Indoor Tailgate Games

13. Poker

Prepare your poker face for a rousing game of cards. Poker is a globally loved game, known for blending skill and psychology. From Texas Hold ‘Em to Seven-Card Stud, poker can be played in many different forms. So make sure to grab a standard 52-card deck before the next tailgate.

14. Tabletop Cornhole

Sometimes the best Indoor tailgate games are ones you don’t have to put too much thought into. If you love playing cornhole outside, you’ll enjoy playing it inside just as much. This miniature version of the classic tailgate game, allows players to compete in a smaller and more accessible way.

15. Darts 

All you need is a bit of precision, a bit of strategy and a whole lot of luck to win at these tailgate games. A classic form of pub entertainment, darts has been enjoyed by many for centuries. Throw pointed missiles, otherwise known as darts, at a dartboard and try to score by hitting specific portions of the board.

16. Foosball 

Foosball is a fast-paced game of table soccer that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your home. Using quick reflexes and teamwork, players control small soccer figures connected to rotating rods as they attempt to score by maneuvering a ball into the opponent's goal.

17. Football themed bingo 

Gather exciting, fun and interesting football-related facts, events or terms to replace the numbers in a classic bingo game. This game allows all guests to socialize and interact regardless of football knowledge. Create your own bingo cards on a 5 x 5 grid or check out free versions online!

18. Football Charades

You’ve heard of charades, but have you heard of football charades? In this tailgate game version, gather the pals to act out football terms or common gameplay like “Field Goal”, “Hail Mary” or “Touchdown Dance.” Do your best to connect with your inner mime.

Outdoor Tailgate Games

19. Tug of war

These tailgate games are all about brawn before brains, although a bit of strategy may help you in the end. Pin family members against each other or separate the friend groups for an edgy game of tug-of-war. One word of advice, don’t put all your strongest players in the front.

20. Horseshoe

Are you feeling lucky? Test out your lucky streak with a thrilling game of horseshoes, a must-add to your list of outdoor tailgate games. Simplicity meets strategy as players take turns tossing horseshoes toward a steak in the ground, gunning for a ringer.

21. Frisbee Golf

Golf? Frisbee? No, frisbee golf! This dynamic blend of traditional sports combines the precision of golf with the leisure of throwing a frisbee around in your backyard. Well, a professional game of frisbee golf is generally played on a nine or 18-hole course, simply DIY it by setting up your own tee areas that serve as the holes.

22. Kickball

You played it in a high school gym class, you joined pick-up games at the park, but it’s time to bring this competitive sport to the tailgate arena. As far as fun games to play with friends go, kickball is an excellent choice. With it comes the nostalgia of a schoolyard recess and the energetic fun of competition.

Tailgate Games for Families

23. Ring Toss

Bring the carnival to your backyard barbecue for a simply challenging good time. Add ring toss to your roster of tailgate games for families since players of any age can attempt a big win. Set up a series of pegs, hooks or steaks at varying distances and heights and do your best to score as many points as possible by landing as many rings as you can.

24. Scavenger Hunt

For a special occasion party game that’s especially equipped to entertain at a sports-themed birthday soirée, have your guest of honor, or anyone who wants to participate, journey through a football scavenger hunt. Not only do these tailgate games turn your pre-main event festivities into a detailed adventure, they're also a great way to engage both kids and adults. For a birthday-themed scavenger hunt for an avid football fan, hide various football-related gifts like a new jersey, tailgate chair or cooler around the tailgate area.

25. Balloon Pop Relay

Discover who works best together with a balloon pop relay. These tailgate games are sure to keep energy high and spirits even higher. A balloon pop relay is a laughter-filled game that takes a bit of daring to win. Participants must try their best to pop balloons as quickly as they can without using their hands or their feet. And no, biting the balloons is a red flag-worthy play.

26. Pin the Football 

These tailgate games put a spin on the classic game of pin the tail on the donkey. While blindfolded, each player will take their turn trying to pin a paper football as close as they can to the center of a drawn-out go post. Expect lots of laughter and game-day spirit.

Tailgate Party Games for the Office

27. Team Chant Contest

Boost energy, morale, and camaraderie for weeks to come with these simple tailgate games. Teams face off after being challenged to produce creative and enthusiastic themes for the teams or departments with football flare. It’s not often that we are presented with the opportunity to unleash our passion and creativity at the office, but here’s your chance to make some noise and have a blast!

28. Paper Football 

While the football season provides endless team building opportunities for certain offices, filled with sports fans, tailgate party games for the office can seem like a lot of pressure. The trick is to keep it simple and keep it fun — and paper football does just that. Plus, you don’t have to use any office funds to make it happen. 

Clear off a desk and help each player create small, triangular paper footballs. One by one, each player will do their best to flick their paper football across the desk, trying to get it to land perfectly at the edge which constitutes a field goal.

29. Office Olympics

For more involved tailgate games at the office, turn a single game into a series of lighthearted activities. Create a tournament of office-related games like a chair race, stapler toss, typing challenge, paper airplane distance throwing, and many more. Set up stations for each event and put together a team playoff schedule. If this tailgate game is for a team building activity, consider assigning teams, so that people get a chance to work and mingle with coworkers outside of their day-to-day teams.

30. Football-Themed Jeopardy

Test your knowledge of the game while trying to win a game of football-themed Jeopardy. This version of the classic quiz show includes football-related questions for football fanatics. Not only are these tailgate games entertaining, but they're also educational. Players will walk away having learned something new about their favorite sports game.

31. Football Pictionary 

If you haven’t already noticed, often the most iconic tailgate games are simple innovations of an already beloved activity such as Pictionary. Both die-hard football fans and those who are just in it for the fun can enjoy a game of football-themed Pictionary. This playful and interactive drawing game invites players to bring whatever artistic skills they have to the playing field.

So, how to make a tailgate party fun? Tailgate party games, of course. While the tailgate games meaning may vary from college to college or cookout to cookout, there’s one thing they all have in common: competitive joy. So make sure to prioritize tailgate game ideas just as you would tailgate food ideas.

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