There’s something magical about celebrating the Fourth of July with your family right in your own backyard — the smell of burgers on the grill, the sound of laughter, and of course, the sparkle of fireworks lighting up the night sky. But if you’ve got little ones, it’s a good idea to plan some fun fourth of July games to keep them entertained before the sun sets and the sparklers come out.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for something special to do with your kids, we’ve rounded up our favorite backyard 4th of July games for kids that are festive, easy to set up, and guaranteed to bring on the giggles. These patriotic outdoor games for families are fun for all ages and can be easily adapted for big groups or just your crew at home.
Fourth of July Games
1. Red, White, and Blue Water Balloon Toss
A classic with a patriotic twist! Fill red, white, and blue water balloons and pair up the kids. Have them toss balloons back and forth, stepping farther apart with each round. The last pair with an un-popped balloon wins!
What you need:
- Red, white, and blue water balloons – Bunch O Balloons red white and blue water balloons – Amazon
- Towels for drying off (because it will get splashy!)
2. Star-Spangled Scavenger Hunt
Hide small patriotic items around the yard like mini flags, red-white-blue beads, or star-shaped cutouts. Give kids a checklist and send them hunting!
What you need:
- Printable checklist (or make your own!)
- Dollar store trinkets or treats in red, white, and blue
3. American Flag Relay Race
Divide kids into two teams. One at a time, they run to a bin filled with red, white, and blue clothing items (hats, bandanas, socks), put one on, and run back to tag the next teammate. First team to dress a “full flag outfit” wins!
What you need:
- A bucket of red, white, and blue clothes
- Open space for racing
Check out our pick for the best Fourth of July Balloon Arch for the most patriotic porch in your neighborhood!
4. Patriotic Ring Toss
Paint old mason jars or cones in festive colors and let kids toss rings (or glow necklaces at dusk) for points. Perfect for toddlers and older kids alike.
What you need:
- Mason jars or cones
- DIY rings or store-bought ring toss set
5. Popsicle Stick Puzzle Race
Draw a flag or fireworks on large popsicle sticks (use markers or stickers), then break them apart and mix them up. Have kids race to solve the puzzles first.
What you need:
- Jumbo craft sticks
- Markers or patriotic stickers
6. Independence Day Bean Bag Toss
Set up a board or cardboard box with cut-out holes in the shape of stars or stripes. Let kids take turns tossing bean bags in for points. Add prizes for extra excitement!
What you need:
- Bean bags
- DIY board with cut-outs or a corn hole game set
7. Firecracker Dance Freeze
Crank up a playlist of patriotic tunes and let kids dance around until the music stops. When it does, they have to freeze like a statue — or a firecracker mid-explosion!
What you need:
- Bluetooth speaker
- Fun playlist (think: “Firework” by Katy Perry + “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus)
A Few Extra Tips:
- Keep sunscreen and water handy to avoid meltdowns (the non-game kind).
- Have towels, snacks, and shaded seating nearby.
- Add glow sticks or fairy lights to keep the fun going as it gets dark.
Backyard celebrations don’t have to be over-the-top to be memorable. With just a little prep, these easy Independence Day games will give your kids a Fourth of July to remember — full of laughter, fun, and maybe a few popsicles, too.
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