Summer BBQ Drinking Games That Will Make Your Cookout Legendary

By College Beer Games Team | July 15, 2024

Fire up the grill and grab some cold ones. These outdoor drinking games are perfect for your next backyard party.

<p>Nothing beats a summer cookout with friends, cold drinks, and some friendly competition. Here are the best games to play while the burgers are on the grill.</p> <h2>Yard Games That Go Perfect With Beer</h2> <h3>Cornhole</h3> <p>The classic backyard game. Set up the boards about 25 feet apart and take turns tossing bean bags. Bag on the board is one point, bag in the hole is three. First to 21 wins. Losers drink. Check out our <a href="/games/cornhole">Cornhole rules</a>.</p> <h3>KanJam</h3> <p>Two teams throw frisbees at trash can sized goals. Your partner can slap the disc into the can for points. Direct entry through the slot is an instant win. Losing team finishes their drinks. See <a href="/games/kan-jam">KanJam rules</a>.</p> <h3>Ladder Golf</h3> <p>Toss bolas (two golf balls connected by string) at a three rung ladder. Top rung is three points, middle is two, bottom is one. Play to 21 exactly or you bust back down.</p> <h2>Pool and Water Games</h2> <h3>Floating Beer Pong</h3> <p>Get inflatable beer pong racks that float in the pool. Same rules as regular <a href="/blog/ultimate-guide-beer-pong-rules">beer pong</a> but way more challenging when the cups are moving. Pro tip: use plastic cups that float.</p> <h3>Pool Noodle Jousting</h3> <p>Two people on pool floats try to knock each other off using pool noodles. Loser has to chug while still in the water. Surprisingly intense.</p> <h2>Grill Master Games</h2> <h3>Flip the Burger</h3> <p>Before the cookout, everyone guesses when the grill master will flip each burger. Whoever is furthest off drinks. Keeps people entertained while waiting for food.</p> <h3>Guess the Ingredient</h3> <p>The cook adds a secret ingredient to one dish. Everyone tries to guess what it is. Wrong guesses drink. Right guess means the cook drinks.</p> <h2>BBQ Setup Tips</h2> <ul> <li>Set up games away from the grill for safety</li> <li>Keep a cooler of drinks near each game area</li> <li>Have a shaded spot for people who need a break</li> <li>Sunscreen and bug spray are your friends</li> <li>Start earlier in the day before it gets too hot</li> </ul> <p>For food safety tips, the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/grilling-and-food-safety" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FDA has guidelines on safe grilling</a>.</p> <p>Now fire up that grill and get the games going! For more outdoor fun, check out our <a href="/categories/outdoor-games">outdoor games collection</a>.</p>