Fun in backyard


100 fun things to do outside in your backyard! ⋆ Take Them Outside

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Looking for stuff to do in the backyard when you’re (or your kids) are bored? Check out this lengthy list of fun things to do outside in your backyard! Some are free, some are creative, some are silly and some take some planning and involvement. But, all of them are great activity ideas!

Here’s great idea: You could print this list out, cut up all the idea and throw them in a giant jar. Then, when you or you kids are feeling bored and needing some activity idea suggestions, just reach into the jar!

Fun things to do outside in your backyard for free!

1. Have a picnic. Place a blanket on the ground and eat sandwiches with chips and your favorite beverages. It’s the most relaxing way to spend a day outside! Or, pack up a basket for the kids and send them out on their own to hunt out the perfect backyard picnic spot… maybe they’ll even build a fort!

Read more: Your guide to simple, easy, and super great family picnics!

2. Collect leaves. Go on an exploration around the yard to see what kinds of leaves you can collect. You can find great leaves in all shapes, sizes, and colors. This can be a short activity or turn it into a longer project by pressing and drying the leaves, nature journaling them, or even doing crayon leaf rubbings.

Read More: Leaf Art ideas and leaf art inspiration for kids

3. Look for insects. Explore the backyard area to see what types of insects you might find. Again, kids could journal their findings or just enjoy the investigation. Let them use magnifying glasses too for a bit more of a science-y feel.

Read More: Great kids picture books about insects and bugs!

4. Do a scavenger hunt. Print out a fun backyard scavenger hunt. See who can find the most things first. Or, have the kids or a friend make scavenger hunts for each other and you!

Pointing at her favourite scavenger hunt find

Read More: Grab these nature scavenger hunts or a Neighbourhood Scavenger Hunt Printable Here

5. Explore with a magnifying glass. Look around the backyard with a magnifying glass. Ask your children to see what they can find while using it. You and they might find teeny tiny bugs, but you’ll also find cool colours and patterns and get a different perspective on the outside world.

6. Read a book. Grab your latest read or get into storytelling mode and read a fun book to the kids. And, pulling out some old blankets and pillows will make outdoor book reading even more special!

Throw a towel down and enjoy a bit of backyard reading

Read More: Grab this summer reading challenge to get kids reading outside in nature!

7. Play tag. Run around and chase each other until you’re all tired and ready to rest. If you have school-aged kids they’ll have oodles of tag rule versions – enough to play all afternoon!

8. Go stargazing. Place blankets and pillows on the ground after dark (outdoor furniture cushions work well too). Get cozy. Spend the night cuddled up staring at the sky, talking, and looking at the beautiful stars. Download a star map app first to add a bit of education to your stargazing session too. Make it even more exciting by intentionally heading during a meteor shower.

9. Go bowling. Place old plastic containers in a row and roll a ball on the ground, playing a game of homemade bowling in the backyard. Empty drink contains, yogurt tubs, even cereal boxes will work!

10. Make an obstacle course. Set up an obstacle course using pool floats, boxes, lawn chairs, random yard toys, and other components. Make it a friendly and fun competition for the kids. They’ll have as much fun making courses as doing them.

11. Exercise. Start doing exercises outside with the kids. You can do squats, jumping jacks, and other fun movements.

12. Dance to music. Put some of your favorite music on and start dancing! Let your kids show you some of their favorite dance moves!

13. Play hide and seek. Play a good game of hide and seek. Try to hide behind the tree or bushes or blend in with your surroundings. Make it even more challenging and play after dark!

14. Tell scary stories. Sit around your backyard fire pit and tell scary stories at night. Make sure they’re age-appropriate stories if little ones are joining in on this activity. Up the scary factor by forgoing the fire and doing it in the dark!

15. Play tic-tac-toe. Use sticks and rocks to play a game of tic-tac-toe in the grass.

16. Do some yoga. Place yoga mats on the ground and do yoga with the kids, showing them all kinds of movements and stances to do. And, if you don’t have mats, just use a blanket instead. If you don’t know any moves, look something up on Youtube!

17. Collect twigs. Look around the backyard for any twigs you can find. You can use them for arts and crafts projects at a later time. See who can find the most unique-looking twig out of the bunch. Try making patterns and spelling words and names with the twigs.

18. Search for shapes or colours. Decide which shape or colour you’ll hunt for first or compare you findings after a certain amount of time has passes.

19. Have a race. See who can run the fastest from one point of the yard to the other with this simple and fun competition. Then, try a 3 legged race, hopping on one foot, and wheelbarrow partner races too.

20. Watch the clouds. Slow down and look up. See if you can find any interesting shapes, animals, or make up stories for the changing scenes.

21. Set up a bike carwash. Grab some soap and brushes and pull out the hose for a mini backyard bike wash… or if the kids are too small for bikes, they’ll love washing their push toys too!

Washing his car in the backyard

22. Teach your children the macarena. Play the song and show them how it’s done! It will leave everyone laughing.

23. Give the dog a bath. All hands on deck when washing the dog in the backyard!

24. Play Simon Says. If the leader (Simon) says “Simon says” then do it… if Simon doesn’t say “Simon says”, don’t.

25. Search for birds. See what kinds of birds you can find lingering in the backyard and take photos when they land somewhere near you. Pull out the binoculars and nature guides for a bit more excitement.

Read More: Tips for attracting birds to your backyard in the winter

26. Sunbathe. Soak up all the sun while resting on a beach towel in the backyard. It’s relaxing, but don’t forget the sunscreen!

27. Play with the pets. Play fetch with the dog; bring the cat for a walk. Or if you have small pets like guinea pigs or rabbits, bring them out for some grass nibbling and fresh air.

28. Ride bikes back and forth. If you have a cement or blacktop area in the backyard, let the kids ride back and forth on their bikes. They might even set up jumps and obstacles to bike over and around.

29. Play a game of I Spy. Keep the kids busy with a game of I Spy that keeps them looking around for different colors and objects.

30. Let the kids prepare a picnic. Instead of you setting it up, let the kids make their favorite foods and eat them together on the grass in the backyard.

31. Have a pushup competition. See who can do the most pushups in the backyard. The winner gets a prize!

32. Collect caterpillars or lady bugs. Collect some insects into a jar to watch for a while. Make sure your new friends have few air holes and a bit of grass and debris to hide in and around. If you’ve found a caterpillar give them some leaves to much. Oh, and don’t forget to let them go in the same spot you found them after 30 minutes!

33. Make fan forts. Use a fan at the opening of a duvet cover to make a fan fort. Kids love these!

34. Bob for apples. Fill up a large container with water and apples and show your little ones what it’s like to bob for apples. It’s a silly game that will leave you all laughing. You may want to have a bowl for each participant.

35. Enjoy outdoor pedicures. Who needs the salon? Set up a pedicure station in the backyard for a day of pampering. Wash, soak, scrub, paint nails, and dry!

36. Pillowcase races. Racing or not, the kids (and you) can have a lot of fun trying to get around the yard with your legs in pillowcases. You might want to double or triple the cases… I wonder if they’re strong enough to resist tearing? …but who has potato sacks these days?

What can you do outside when you’re bored and ready to be a bit creative?

37. Draw images. Use a sketchpad and paper to sketch some of the things you see in the backyard. Bring out the markers, crayons, pastels, paints… and watch art happen!

38. Take photos. Set up a photoshoot in the backyard. Have some fun and haul out some props or put on a vogue style fashion shoot!

39. Paint rocks. Supply the paint and brushes and get creative by adding different colors to the rocks. Leave these in the garden and flower beds afterwards for added bits of colour and fun to the backyard.

40. Create a cat shelter. Do you have outdoor kitties or stray cats around? Use a cardboard box to cut out and decorate a cat shelter to put in your backyard. Don’t forget some cozy blankets or towels inside too!

41. Make sidewalk chalk paint. Learn how to make chalk paint from scratch, setting it up in the backyard. A quick google search seems to say that cornstarch, water and food colouring might do the trick. But it looks like you can also use baking soda, plaster or Paris, or eggshells… so, get creative!

42. Put on a puppet show. Grab the puppets and put on a show to make the kids laugh. Or, have the kids make a show for you!

43. Write poems or stories inspired by what you see. Encourage each person to write a poem while in the backyard while focusing on the scenery around them. This article may help you find some inspiration and a bit of guidance on encouraging writing in nature.

44. Have an outdoor concert. Let each person pick a song to sing, setting up a homemade backyard concert. And, if you have instruments, bring those outside too!

45. Paint the fence. If your backyard’s fence needs a painting, let the kids help you with it to keep everyone busy and entertained. And, if it doesn’t need painting, let the kids have fun painting various designs and pictures onto it with a pail of water and their hands or paintbrushes.

46. Put up an outdoor fort. Pretend to go camping and put a fort in the backyard. Hang out inside the fort with shade for hours.

Here’s a backyard fort made by my kids a few years ago

47. Nature Haikus. Look up some examples of haikus and then put your own creativity to work.

48. Have a blindfolded painting challenge. Bring the paint and canvases outdoors while wearing blindfolds to see who can create the best painting.

49. Paint pinecones. If you can find pinecones in the backyard, grab them and paint them for fun. Add some string and hang them up in the trees afterwards.

50. Make a Dandelion Crown. If your yard is like ours and covered in dandelions, pick the tallest flower stalks and weave or braid these together to make crowns.

51. Have an outdoor costume party. Pull out the old Halloween costumes or your fancy clothes you keep but never wear and get dressed up!

52. Paint with nature. Use leaves, twigs, flowers, pinecones, rocks, and grasses as your paintbrushes. Look at all the different textures and variety that nature has to offer! Get more ideas on this nature process art how-to here.

painting outside in the backyard

And a bunch of other fun backyard activity ideas!

53. Plant something. Get the seeds and soil and start planting some of your favorite things, such as fruit, veggies, or even flowers. Help your kids plant some seeds. Or, if you’ve already planted they’ll need some attention… pick the dead flowers, do a bit of weeding, or just give them some love and attention.

Read More: Easy plant ideas for kids to grow

54. Jump on a trampoline. Get a trampoline and install it in the backyard. It can provide you with hours of entertainment and exercise. It’s great for children and adults. This really is true. Trampolines are go outside magnets!

55. Make a slip and slide. Turn the time machine back to 1987 and put a large piece of long plastic on the ground, wet it with water, and then add a bit of dish soap to it to create a homemade slip and slide. It’s so much fun!

56. Set up a tent. Pitch a tent in the backyard for a night of outdoor backyard camping. Who says you need to go to a camping resort to have a good time?

Read More: How to enjoy camping in your own backyard!

57. Have a water balloon fight. Fill up some balloons with water and have a balloon fight. See who gets soaked the most.

58. Set up the kiddie pool. Pull out the pool and fill it with plenty of water. Let the kids swim and splash around. You can have fun in the pool, too!

Read More: 20 kiddie pool games – easy & fun ways to stay cool in the backyard!

59. Roast marshmallows. Put marshmallows on a stick and roast them over the grill or a small bonfire, depending on what you have available to use. Eat them as is or use them to make s’mores.

60. Cater to the birds. Make some birdfeeders or birdhouses for your feathered friends to enjoy. Or spend some time turning the backyard into a spot that will attract the birds in the wintertime.

Read More: Easy birdseed ornaments

61. Set up a rock-climbing wall. Buy or create your own rock climbing wall. It can keep your kids entertained for hours and it’s a great exercise!

62. Play frisbee. Grab a frisbee and throw it around. See who can catch it first. Keep it moving and flying around in the air as you run back and forth. Try some tricks: back-handed, under the leg, and over the head.

63. Try Slacklining. Get your family a slackline kit (if you have some big sturdy trees in your yard). These are lots of fun and a challenge for all ages!

64. Have a BBQ. Pull the grill out and spend the day cooking meats and veggies. Let the kids pick out what they’d like to add to the grill, such as hot dogs and hamburgers or shish kabobs.

65. Use a hula hoop. Pull the hula hoops out and have a competition. See who can keep the hula hoop going the longest. Try arms, neck, and feet too!

66. Harvest plants. See which plants are ready to harvest and get the kids to lend a helping hand with picking them and adding them to a container. If you’re comfortable identifying plants you might even take a look around for native edibles… like dandelions.

Carrots harvested from the backyard garden

Read More: 6 practical tips for getting kids into the garden

67. Set up an easy outdoor lounge. Blow up small pools and turn them into lounging areas with neck pillows, blankets, and drinks!

68. Fairy Garden. Create a magical little area in your yard for the kids to play and imagine with fairies and gnomes.

69. Watch a movie. Use a wall in your backyard as a spot for your movie projector. Set up a movie to watch outside with the family.

70. Play with chalk. If you have cement or blacktop in your backyard, don’t hesitate to bring out the chalk and start drawing with it.

71. Have a NERF gun war. Bring out the NERF guns and let the kids battle it out in a competition to see who can get the most shots. Don’t forget sunglasses for eye protection!

72. Blow bubbles. Grab some bubble wands and start blowing bubbles. Have a fun competition to see who can blow the biggest bubble of all time.

73. Have a paint fight. Add washable paint to water guns and go all out to see who gets covered in paint the most.

74. Play with action figures. Bring the action figures or animal figurines outdoors and get creative while playing make-believe with the kids.

75. Play lawn games. Find different games that are good to play on the lawn. They’ll keep everyone entertained for hours. Think bean bag toss games like cornhole, or badminton, bocce, and croquet.

Read More: Check out these super fun oversized giant yard games… with DIY suggestions too!

76. Play Twister. If you have the game of Twister, the backyard is the perfect place to play it because you’ll have lots of space.

78. Set up a Tiki bar. Serve kid-friendly cocktails in the backyard. Get your kids to help with preparing the beverages, pull out the fancy glasses and straws, and line the rims with sugar!

79. Set up an outdoor ball pit. Have fun with a homemade ball pit in the backyard or blow up a bunch of balloons.

80. Rent or buy a bounce house. You can rent or buy an inflatable bounce house, setting it up in the yard. Maybe a family friend has one you could borrow for the weekend?

81. Pull the weeds. Get your backyard looking its best while getting the kids to help with pulling the weeds. Turn it into a competition to make it fun for everyone.

82. Teach the kids how to jump rope. Grab a jump rope and show the children how to use it. Do you remember how to double-dutch?

83. Create an outdoor water oasis. Use sprinklers, an inflatable pool, and a slip and slide to create an outdoor water oasis that reminds your kids of being at the waterpark.

84. Play hopscotch. If you have a cemented area in the backyard, use it to play hopscotch with the kids.

85. Play softball. If your backyard is big enough, bring out the softballs and bats to play a few rounds together as a family. Or just the balls and gloves if batting seems a bit unsafe. Ever played pop 500?

86. Enjoy a game of kickball. Set up a game of kickball and get in competition mode with the kids.

87. Prepare a treasure hunt. Hide different things throughout the backyard and encourage the kids to search for these items with or without clues.

88. Set up a sandbox. Fill a plastic bin full of sand and add some toys and shovels to it. Let your children play in the sand! A sandbox or play mud kitchen is a great long-term backyard activity worth investing in.

89. Get a swingset. If you can afford to do so, buy a swing set and install it in the backyard. It can keep the kids entertained for hours.

90. Set up a mini basketball court. Get a basketball court set up in the backyard so that the kids can play.

91. Create a Ninja Warrior course. Use wood and other fixtures to create a Ninja Warrior course for your kids.

92. Wash the car. If your garage is right next to the backyard, wash the car with help from the kids.

93. Play with moon dough. Bring a bucket full of moon dough out and play with it, letting the children get creative. All you need is cornstarch, water, and possibly food colouring.

94. Have a tea party. Bring out your fancy china (or whatever you have!). Make some tea, serve some crackers and enjoy a bit of fun and sophistication in the backyard.

95. Fly a drone. If you have a drone, hang out in the backyard while hovering it around to see what kind of footage you can get.

96. Have a glow party. Wait until the sun sets and head out in the backyard with glow sticks for everyone.

Read More: Here’s a list of a bunch of great backyard games to enjoy after dark.

97. Play tennis. Who needs a court to play tennis? If you have the supplies needed, you can play a few games in the yard with the kids. Or, if your yard is set up for it, you can bounce and hit the balls against the side of the garage.

98. Hang a tire swing from a tree. Put a tire swing on a big tree in the backyard. Your kids will love it.

99. Make hobo dinners on the grill. Hobo dinners consist of ground meat, veggies, and potatoes in foil packs that cook on the grill or over the fire pit.

Read More: Here are a bunch of yummy campfire pie recipes to get you started.

Roasting campfire pies over the backyard fire pit

100. Pull out the vintage toys. Skip-It, Pogo-Sticks, Pogo Balls, Can Stilts, and Penny Boards… all sorts of cool toys to keep you moving. Your kids will love the novelty of seeing you try to remember your sweet moves!


So many ideas! What fun things will you do outside in your backyard first?

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45 Fun Activities, Games & Things to Do

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When the weather is warm (but not too hot!) is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the best that your backyard has to offer. From barbecues to bug hunting to blowing bubbles, there are plenty of fun backyard activities to keep everyone entertained. This bucket list of activities, games, and things to do that will keep you busy whether you’re looking for something new or just want some creative ideas for backyard fun, we’ve got you covered!




1. Camp in Your Backyard

Camping can be a chance to bond with family or friends, rediscover yourself, or take a break from our routines and away from distractions. Nevertheless, it is one of those backyard activities that could spark that adventurous spirit within you. Maybe you could even complete something off our Camping Bucket List?


2. Host a Backyard Obstacle Course

You can make your own obstacle course using items like old car tires, jump ropes, hula hoops, anything! It may not be on par with American Ninja Warrior, but it is still a fantastic way to encourage everyone (adults and kids alike) to go outside and be active. You can even design one for your dogs as well!

There are lots of fun obstacle course ideas online, but HGTV’s DIY Dollar Store Backyard Obstacle Course is great and cheap!


3. Have an Outdoor Movie Night

Watching movies under the stars in the comfort of your own backyard is something you don’t get to experience very often. It can also be a fun and exciting way to spend your evening, either alone or with family or friends.

It does require a bit of setting up and equipment like a projector and a sheet or wall to project the film, but the effort is way more than worth it!


4. Blow Some Bubbles

Blowing bubbles is something that might not come to mind when camping in your backyard, but it is a simple way to have some fun, especially if you have kids with you.

It is easy to make your own bubble mix, and for some extra fun bring some of these bubble guns!


5.

Go on a Bug Hunt

Insects come in all shapes and sizes, from the crawling critters to the flying ones. And being one of the most numerous species on the planet, it’s easy to spot (or miss) as long as you pay attention to your surroundings.

If you’re planning to look at night, you can attract flying insects by setting up a light trap using a white sheet of cloth and a flashlight or fluorescent lamp.

For the really adventurous, here are some edible bugs around the world.


6. Fly Paper Planes

Making a handmade paper plane is pretty simple. All you need is a sheet of paper and some easy instructions (watch this video for help!). After you’ve created your master flier, take it to the backyard, give your paper plane a throw and watch it soar through the air!

PS: there’s no need to worry about making a perfect landing – paper planes are very forgiving! 


7. Have a Corn Hole Competition

When it comes to outdoor pastimes, who wouldn’t want to play a game of corn hole while hanging out in your backyard? It is a fun toss game where players take turns throwing a small bean bag into a tilted board. The first one to reach a score of 21 wins the game, and scoring depends on whether you’ve landed the bean bag on the board or into the hole on the raised end.

GoSports sells a Classic Cornhole set that comes with 8 bean bags and a travel bag!


8. Cuddle in a Hammock

After hours of fun games and backyard activities, getting to relax and on a hammock is one simple pleasure in life.

If you don’t have a hammock, I am loving Stageya’s Boho Hammock.


9. Decorate your Fence

Let’s face it, sometimes a blank fence can be pretty boring. So here are some fun ideas to liven up your backyard fence.

One option is to hang plants from it. This can add a pop of color and life to an otherwise bland space. You can also use your fence as a canvas for artwork—paint a mural, hang a tapestry, or simply display some of your favorite pieces. If you’re feeling extra crafty, you can even weave colorful ribbons or fabric through the fence slats.

Another great idea is to string up some fairy lights or lanterns for a magical look, or go for something more festive with holiday-themed lights. You can also use light projection systems to create moving patterns or images on your fence.

Finally, don’t forget the power of accessories! Hanging signs, wind chimes, or even birdhouses can add personality and charm to any outdoor fence. So get creative and see what you can come up with!


10. Do Some Outdoor Exercise

Working out at the gym is good and all, however, mixing it up with an outdoor workout can be a great addition to your routine. Not only is it free, but being in the open air feels good for the mind and body!


11. Create a Backyard Chalkboard

A backyard chalkboard is a great way to add some fun and function to your outdoor space. If you have a blank wall or fence, simply hang a chalkboard and you’ve got an instant focal point for your yard. Or you can easily make one yourself using nothing more than a piece of plywood and some chalkboard paint. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have your very own backyard chalkboard in no time.

You can use the chalkboard to write messages, draw pictures, or keep track of important information like the days of the week or the temperature.


12. Do a Fun Photoshoot

If you want memories that will last forever in a physical form, then organizing a photoshoot in your backyard is a great idea. You can hire a professional photographer and have the pictures with costumes on that will surely make the kids go crazy.

You can then organize the professional photographs into an album or scrapbook to remember the day for the rest of your life.


13. Set Up a She Shed

If you’re looking for a backyard retreat that’s all your own, a “she” shed is the perfect solution. These small structures can be used for anything from storage to a home office, and they provide a great space to unwind and relax. 

Don’t know how to start? Here is some help:

Don’t forget to add personal touches like flowers and cushions to make it feel like your own special space. With a little time and effort, you’ll have the perfect she shed to call your own.


14. Build a Fort

For many kids (and some adults), building a fort is the ultimate backyard activity. Forts can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, and they can be built out of just about anything. If you’re looking for ideas, try using blankets and sheets to create a teepee-style fort, or use furniture and chairs to build a more traditional fort with walls and a roof. You can even get creative and use recycled materials like cardboard boxes or old tires. The possibilities are endless! So grab some supplies and get started on your very own backyard fort today.


15. Find Different Star Constellations

The night sky has always been a source of great mystery and wonder. One of the most popular ways to enjoy stargazing is to look for different constellations. The constellations are patterns formed by groups of stars, and there are dozens of different constellations recognized by astronomers.  

Some constellations are easy to spot, like Orion the Hunter, while others require a bit more searching. You could even make it a game to find the most (Art of Manliness has list 15 constellations to find to get you started with).


16. Enjoy An Inflatable Pool

Whether you’re looking for a way to beat the heat or simply want a fun place to relax, an inflatable backyard pool can be a great addition to your home.

They come in all shapes and sizes, and here are some of the best: The best inflatable pools


17. Find Shapes in the Clouds

Let your imagination run wild and see what shapes you can make out of the clouds. You can even play a game of I Spy with family or friends with this while relaxing in the comfort of your own backyard!


18. Have a Backyard Scavenger Hunt

If you have a knack for laying out puzzles and clues,  then why not try your hand at planning a scavenger hunt. You don’t even have to wait for, say, Easter or Halloween to set one up, plus, it is an activity that anyone can join in for some friendly competition!

For ideas, see How to Set Up a Scavenger Hunt for Grownups.


19. Play Beer Pong

Beer Pong anyone? All you need to liven up your backyard party is some red solo cups, a ping pong ball and some beer (if you’re of legal age, of course). The beer pong rules are pretty easy, where the basic goal is to end up drinking all the opposing teams beer so they have no cups left.


20. Learn To Do Cartwheels

Doing cartwheels is something you might have done as a kid, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do it anymore as adults.

Nailing the move can take as little as a few tries to even a couple of weeks, depending on your fitness level. If you don’t have the strength and flexibility to perform a cartwheel yet, you can consider this as a chance to jumpstart your fitness journey as well.

  • If you need some expert instructions, here are two websites that can help:
    Wikihow: How to Do a Cartwheel
    Gymnastics HQ: How To Do A Cartwheel


21.

Watch the Sunset & Sunrise

Find the perfect spot in your yard where you can see the sun set and rise, then plant yourself as you watch nature’s perfect show.


22. Play Some Board Games

If you prefer a more chill day in your backyard, having a board game marathon with your favorite games could be fun. You can make it even more fun by adding prizes for the winner.

Unsure of which games to play? Check out this list: Board Games Bucket List: 50 of the All Time Best Ones to Play


23. Meditate

Meditating outside opens you up to different sensations that you may have never felt before, like the breeze grazing your skin, the sound of nature around you, the smell of grass, and whatnot.

Just be sure to look for a quiet spot for your meditation session to avoid distractions.


24. Learn to Hula Hoop

Not only is hula hooping something that was incredibly fun to try out as a child, but it’s a great form of exercising for adults as well. By hula hooping, you can strengthen and tone your body, especially around the core, but also hips and thighs, in addition to which it can also lead to improved flexibility. 

As a fun tidbit: hula hooping has actually existed as a form of exercise since the times of ancient Greeks! 


25. Run Through Sprinklers

For kids of all ages, who wouldn’t want to splash around and run through sprinklers, especially on a hot day? You don’t even need any fancy equipment, just turn on the water and let the fun begin!

It’s also incredible how even the simplest activities can turn into hours of fun, especially when spent with your loved ones.


26. Play Tin Can Bowling

Looking for a fun and easy game to entertain everyone? Look no further than your own pantry. All you need to play tin can bowling is a few empty cans and a small ball. You can set up the pins by lining up the cans in a triangle formation, with the heaviest can at the bottom.

Then, take turns throwing the ball at the pins and see how many you can knock down. This simple game is sure to provide hours of fun, and it’s a great way to recycle those empty cans.


27. Build A Treehouse

If you have kids of your own (or are a kid at heart), experiencing the fun and excitement of playing in a treehouse can be one of the most memorable things you can give them, so why not try your hand at building one?


28. Do A Little Bird Watching

Birdwatching is one of the least strenuous things you can do in your backyard, and it is easy to get started. All you need is a bird book (it can be an app as well), a pair of binoculars, and a good amount of patience.

You can check online for a list of birds in your local area that you can see, and see if you can spot some of them.


29. Play Giant Backyard Jenga

Jenga is a classic game that is perfect for outdoor fun. The giant version of the game is even more fun, and it can be played with two or more people. To play, each person takes turns removing one block from the stack and placing it on top.  

The goal is to keep the stack from toppling over. If the stack does topple, the person who caused it to fall is out of the game. The last person standing is the winner.

 Jenga is a great game for outdoor parties or picnics, and it can be played by people of all ages—kids to adults!

Buy it here: Giant Jenga


30. Plan a BBQ

Good food, good company, cold beers and warm outdoor weather, what more could you ask for in this world? Having an ultimate BBQ is one of the best ways to spend a boring Saturday or Sunday afternoon.


31. Have a Picnic

Even if it’s only in your backyard, make it official by packing a traditional wicker basket with your favorite picnic foods. Real Simple magazine can help you out with their Picnic Packing Checklist. If you want to set up an Instagrammable picnic, here’s a cute red checkered picnic basket.


32. Play Water Balloon Dodgeball

What could be more fun than a game of water balloon dodgeball? This classic summertime activity is the perfect way to cool off on a hot day. All you need is a group of friends, a supply of water balloons, and a little open space. Once you have your supplies, simply start pelting each other with water balloons! The object of the game is to avoid getting hit by a balloon, so be sure to duck and weave. If you do get hit, don’t worry – simply step out of the playing area and wait for the next round to begin. 


33. Have Fun Slip n’ Sliding

A Slip n’ Slide is a fun warm weather toy that can provide hours of amusement for kids of all ages. All you need is a water hose and a smooth, flat surface, and you’re ready to go. Just connect the water hose to the slide, and turn it on. The water will create a slick surface that will allow you to glide down the slide. You can even add soap to the water for an extra-slippery ride. 

They now have dozens of different versions of slides, and you can see some of the best ones on Amazon: Amazon Slip and Slides.


34. Make Some S’mores

If you haven’t had these yet, drop everything you are doing and go make some—s’mores are absolutely divine. As the perfect campfire treat, making S’mores is something that the whole family can get into and thoroughly enjoy.

Allow me to elaborate: The best kind of S’more, the ones I like most, go a little something like this – You take a fire-roasted marshmallow, sandwich that with a layer of your favorite chocolate and then cover it all up with two pieces of graham cracker.

This recipe should help to get you started on the right foot. This treat has been a campfire staple long before most of us here were even born. The very first recorded s’mores recipe was published in 1927 in ‘Tramping and Trailing With the Girl Scouts’, a Girl Scouts handbook. So you are in good company. And if the traditional style doesn’t do it for you, pick a unique one from the 12 Creative S’mores ideas.


35. Play Hide and Seek

Classic games such as hide and seek are popular for a reason: they are enjoyable and easy to play. Plus, people of all ages can join—adults and kids.


36. Make a Tire Swing

An outdoor tire swing is a great way to add some fun and excitement to your backyard. Plus, it’s a project that you can easily do yourself in just a few hours. Here’s what you’ll need: an old tire, some sturdy rope, and a drill with a large bit. Then follow Bob Vila’s instructions for how to make a safe tire swing and that’s it! You now have a fully functional tire swing that your kids (or grandkids) are sure to enjoy.


37. Host a Garden Tea Party

What can you do on one sunny afternoon? If you have a garden you can host your own tea party—don’t forget the tiny little sandwiches! Get inspired dreaming and planning by checking out this gallery. 


38. Read a Book

There is something about reading a good book under a tree’s shade that makes the experience more satisfying and enjoyable. Is it the sound of the rustling leaves? The ambiance of the outdoors? Or is it something more inborn that just feels right?

One thing is for sure, that feeling of getting lost in a book while under a tree is something that you will know the answer to once you experience it.

If you love the classics then check of the Classic Books Bucket List: 25 of the Best Must-Read Novels. You can easily download many classics to your Kindle for free. Find a ton of free classics on Amazon.


39. Make a Tiki Bar

Tiki bars are perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a relaxing evening at home. Fortunately, it’s easy to create your own backyard Tiki bar with just a few simple supplies. Start by setting up a small table or bar cart in your outdoor space. Then, add some festive Tiki decorations like lanterns, palm trees, and straw umbrellas. 

Be sure to stock the bar with all of your favorite tropical drinks, and don’t forget the Elvis Presley records! With a little effort, you can turn your backyard into a true Polynesian paradise.


40. Play Card Games

Card games are a fun and entertaining way to bond with family or friends. It only takes a deck of cards, your wits, and just a bit of luck to play.

You can have a game of the classics like Old Maid or Poker, even ones like Uno (which has its own deck of cards.). 

Need more ideas? See our Card Game Bucket List that has 100+ fun ones to play with family & friends.


41. Have a Water Gun Fight

A water gun fight is the perfect activity for a hot summer day. Not only is it a great way to cool off, but it’s also a lot of fun. To get started, all you need is a few water guns and some friends. Once everyone has a weapon, simply start shooting at each other. The object of the game is to soak your opponents as much as possible. 

If you get hit, don’t worry – just keep firing back. The driest person standing is the winner. 

If you don’t have any water guns, check out these High Capacity Soaker Squirt Guns.


42. Paint Rocks

Painting rocks is a fun and easy way to add a personal touch to your garden or landscaping. The best part is that there are no rules – you can be as creative as you like! To get started, you’ll need some rocks (smooth ones work best), a selection of acrylic paints, and a few paintbrushes. Once you have your supplies, simply choose the colors you want to use and start painting! 

You can paint any design or pattern you like, or even spell out words or phrases. If you’re not sure what to paint, try looking for inspiration online (Rock Painting 101 has tons of ideas). Once you’re finished painting, let the rocks dry completely before placing them in your garden. With a little bit of creativity, you can easily transform plain rocks into colorful works of art!


43. Host a Dance Party

What could be more fun than having a dance party outdoors? If you have a large backyard, that’s ideal, but even a small patio or deck can be transformed into a dance floor. Just clear away any furniture or obstacles, crank up the music, and let loose! If you want to take things to the next level, you can even string up some lights or decorations to create a more festive atmosphere.  


44. Make a Time Capsule

You can say that making a time capsule and burying or hiding it away until the agreed-upon time is one of the most memorable and unique fun family activities you can do together.

The items that you would want to put inside the time capsule can be anything: letters, drawings and memorabilia—literally anything that can fit inside it.


45. Play Charades

Charades is a classic game that is suitable for all ages. It’s simple to play, all you need to do is act out words, phrases or movie titles that are written on slips of paper. If you don’t know how to play, then this how-to has detailed instructions. If you need some easy topic ideas (or picture cards for those children who don’t read yet), these charade cards will help.

. . .

There are limitless possibilities for fun backyard activities. If you enjoy being outdoors, you can go for a swim in your pool, play a game, or just relax a hammock. No matter which ideas you like best, there is sure to be plenty of enjoyable things to do in your backyard whether you’re an adult or a kid. So get outside and enjoy the fresh air!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. You can read my full disclosure here.

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Backyard Fun Saskatoon: Fun in the Sun!

It's my son's birthday week, and to celebrate, I'm making a list of his favorite summer outdoor activities. We love adventure all over Saskatoon and love day trips, but sometimes we just want to get out in the backyard and play. Below are our top backyard activities in Saskatoon! We did most of them on his birthday, but as the weather continues to be warm, we'll be walking as much as we can! As he gets older, we constantly find new things to do and he likes to help out with daily chores. Our backyard isn't perfect (it's missing most of the grass), but we love playing there. Most of these things can be done in the park if you want to get outside of your backyard.

1| Crocheted balloons or bombs.

We first bought some of these last year and have loved them ever since. My son has been asking us to take them out again since the snow melted. This weekend we had our first crochet water fight. (I won.) Using them gives so many bonuses. First, they are much more environmentally friendly than real balloons - reusable and washable. Secondly, they can be bought locally, thereby supporting the local population. Third, you can throw them at your kids and hear them squeal with laughter. Win. Win. Win. We love water fights in any form.

I have a list of some local manufacturers who sell them. Find someone close to you and send him a message. (Or, if you're crafty, you can make your own!) If you're checking out local options, be sure to see if they make any other goodies you love.

  1. YXE Cozy crochet and crafts - That's where we got ours last year.
  2. Nikkita's trinkets
  3. In addition to the top - They also make Frisie holders!
  4. Blue Moon Mermaids
  5. Margielows Creations
  6. Crochet sherr
  7. Love Saskatoon
  8. Insidious Creations - This one is in Prince Albert, but if you're in the area, be sure to check them out!
  9. 1 Crazy Stitch
  10. Prairies and pearls
  11. One stitch
  12. I Creation
  13. Hobnobber - go to the store and find locally made water balloons and much more.
  14. Joint Market - Visit this place to buy balloons and more.

2| Dog Fun

My toddler and our dog get along best outside (mainly because my puppy is ready to pick up any food my son drops). We love to play catch-up and tug with the puppy.

Learn more YXE's caring creations for all your pets.

3| Outdoor kitchen

It's a little harder to get out of your yard, but just grab a few wooden spoons and bowls and find a pile of dirt in the park! My son loves to bring me mud soup. We recently made a kitchen for him out of an old desk. It's not perfect, but it has a sink and stove, so he loves it. (As seen in the main photo.)

4| Ladybug Houses

My son loves collecting bugs – especially ladybugs. He collects rocks anytime we are away from the house, and our backyard is covered with ladybug houses made by his rocks. This is one of his favorite things to do and he makes sure the ladybugs can leave at any time.

5| Gardening

My child gardens with me mostly right after he was born (I planted my garden at 38 weeks pregnant). He likes to watch the plants grow as much as I do. He loves to plant seeds and loves to water flowers. (It definitely drowned a few poor things.) If you don't know where to start gardening, check out our list of greenhouses in Saskatoon. If you don't have space for a garden, be sure to check out the community gardens closest to you.

6| ice cream

On a hot day, there is nothing better than ice cream. Both my son and I love ice cream. This year we set ourselves the goal of trying every local ice cream shop in Saskatoon.

7| sticks

We try not to shy away from playing with sticks. As long as my son knows not to swing at others and stay safe, we will continue to use sticks on our adventures. This includes gentle fighting with swords, canes, or whatever the stick might look like at the moment. My son even made an imaginary fire of logs and sticks.

8| Sidewalk Chalk

Seriously, who doesn't love sidewalk chalk? We chalk our walk every year. Sometimes every day. This year my son is more interested in it than in previous years and we had a lot of fun. I like to leave inspirational messages and he likes to create fight scenes.

9| Bubbles Bubbles Bubbles

We love bubbles in any form. Small, big, fast, slow. Chasing bubbles is a family favorite. Both dog and toddler can spend an hour trying to catch bubbles. I hope to find a good recipe to make our own bubbles so we don't have to buy more.

10| Mud Mud and more Mud plus puddle jumping

We love to get dirty. He loves it more than I do, but someday we'll put on outerwear and play in a big muddy puddle. He also likes to make my puddles for his toys to play with. If my child is around, you can never go wrong with dirt. We also love jumping in puddles.

All of these activities help us reach our goal of 1000 hours outside, but with or without the goal of being outdoors as much as possible, we love summer outside, and when we can't explore the world, we certainly can explore your own backyard. From my birthday boy and from me: I hope you find something to do with your family this summer. If you have an interesting backyard activity, please share!

how to complete the backyard fun quest




A new limited time event has started this week in The Sims Mobile - Backyard Fun . The quest will be available for 7 days . During this time, you need to complete a chain of tasks and accumulate as many lemon slices as possible. We will talk about everything in more detail in this material.

The quest, as always, is in the list of tasks. It is marked with a colored banner. In total, you need to complete 26 tasks in 7 days of the quest. Completing each task will give you a small amount of lemon wedges. And the main reward of the quest after the successful completion of the entire chain of tasks is the set " Summer Garden ".

Check out the full list of quests:

1. Earn 25 Simoleons.
2. Tap on the bed and perform the action « Dream of cozy flower beds ".
3. Tap on the mirror and do the action " Think flower accessories ".
4. Tap on another character and perform the action " Ask about flower language ".
5. Complete any event.
6. Change the character's appearance.
7. Complete the event " Experiment with barbecue recipes ".
8. Open the chest " Barbecue ".
9. Give stickers to 5 different characters.
10. Complete the event " Learn Barbecue Flavors ".
11. Complete any event.
12. Earn 650 Simoleons.
13. Complete any 5 events.
14. Complete the event " Try Special Barbecue Drinks ".
15. Complete all Llama Zoom tasks.
16. Complete the event " Experiment with barbecue recipes ".
17. Gather 1200 lemon wedges.
18. Complete all Llama Zoom tasks.
19. Complete the event " Learn Barbecue Flavors ".
20. Gather 1200 lemon wedges.
21. Complete all Llama Zoom tasks.
22. Complete the event " Try Special Barbecue Drinks ".
23. Earn 650 Simoleons.
24. Complete all Llama Zoom missions.
25. Gather 1200 lemon wedges.
26. Complete any three long events.

After completing the last, 26th, task, you will receive a set " Summer Garden ".

Completing quests will give you lemon wedges . Also, slices can be obtained by completing quest events. A small number of lobules can be randomly obtained by completing regular Relationship, Career, and Hobby events. And don't forget about watering can - it will be obtained after completing the first quest task. Immediately place it on the site, because every 11 hours it will give 125 lemon slices.

There are two kinds of chests: barbecue and gourmet barbecue . Their content is the same, and the difference is only in the cost and the probability of items falling out. Regular BBQ chests open for 125 lemon wedges. And Gourmet BBQ for 50 sim coins.


Chests contain a variety of rewards, including items for characters and furniture for the home. The most interesting item is the new grill. Each item has its own rarity - it can be common, uncommon and rare. In addition to items, style pearls and sim coins can drop out as a reward.

Full list of rewards:

Items for characters:
- 8 items of clothing;
- 5 hairstyles;
- 2 types of accessories.

Household items:
- grill;
- dwarf "Bomb";
- cooling lamp "Summer";
- table with umbrella "Summer";
- soft dining chair "Summer";
- sofa with steel armrests "Summer";
- gnome "Praise the elephant";
- chair with steel armrests "Summer";
- lamp "Summer";
- dining chair "Summer";
- lantern "Summer";
- beverage tray "Summer";
- dwarf "Stoic"

Other awards:
- pearls of style;
- sim coins;
- cupcakes;
- simoleons.


Learn more