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As the weather warms up, it’s an exciting time to start spending more time outside and in our backyards. This is the perfect time of year to bring out the patio furniture, clean up the grill, and have friends and family over for the occasional barbecue. It is also the perfect time to curate a well-designed backyard that is fun and inviting.
So, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply relaxing with a good book, grab your tools and your favorite childhood and lawn games and get ready to create a backyard meant for entertaining. With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can turn your backyard into a haven for relaxation and enjoyment with these backyard entertainment ideas.
Backyard Ideas for Entertainment
1. Backyard Bar or Outdoor Kitchen
A backyard bar or kitchen is a great way to entertain guests while keeping the party outside. You can build a simple bar with a few stools and a mini-fridge or go all out with a full kitchen with a grill, sink, and countertop space.
This will allow you to curate and serve drinks and food without having to run back and forth to the indoor kitchen. Plus, it adds a fun and unique element to your backyard that your guests will love.
2. Outdoor Fire Pit
A fire pit is an excellent way to entertain friends and family in the backyard. The outdoor fireplace provides warmth on chilly evenings, but it also serves as a focal point in your outdoor space. Outdoor fire pits are a great place to gather around, chat, roast marshmallows, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
You can easily create a homemade fire pit using bricks or stones, gravel, sand, or soil, along with a metal bowl to contain the fire. However, if DIYing isn’t your thing, consider purchasing a pre-constructed fire pit. Pair the fire pit with Adirondack chairs and a S’mores fire pit basket.
Ensure that wherever you place the fire pit in the backyard, it is free from flammable objects, such as branches or leaves.
3. Cozy Outdoor Living Room
Transform your backyard into a comfortable and inviting outdoor living space by adding outdoor furniture, rugs, pillows, and a patio umbrella. This seating area is a great way to extend your outdoor living space.
It will also pair nicely with a fire pit and outdoor movie theatre to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests to relax and socialize. Don’t forget to add some ambient lighting, such as string lights and tiki torches, to create the perfect atmosphere.
For other creative outdoor lighting ideas and a variety of options to elevate your space, make sure to reach out to experts at Blingle.
4. Set up an Outdoor Movie Theatre
Setting up an outdoor movie theatre is also a great way to entertain guests in the backyard on those cool summer nights. This DIY project is easy to put together. You’ll need a projector as well as an outdoor movie screen or a large white wall to create your outdoor movie nights. Combine this projector and outdoor screen for the perfect setup.
If you want extra sound effects and musical accompaniment during your films, consider investing in surround-sound outdoor speakers for the ultimate outdoor home theater experience.
5. Outdoor Heater
Don’t worry if you don’t have a fire pit. A portable outdoor heater offers the flexibility to move it wherever you and your guests gather. Enjoy cool autumn evenings outdoors without a care about anyone feeling chilly.
6. BBQ Grill
It’s fair to say that a barbecue grill is a must-have amenity for your backyard. From hot dogs to hamburgers and a London broil steak, the BBQ grill adds a particular flavor to your meal that everyone seems to love.
It’s a fun and tasty way to entertain and feed your guests. You can opt for a Weber Propane Grill or a basic, simple-to-use Charcoal grill. Just make sure to pair the outdoor grill with grilling utensils.
7. A Relaxing Hammock
Hammocks are a great addition to your backyard. You can easily incorporate a hammock to complement your outdoor seating and decor. Kids love hammocks for their cool features, and adults love their relaxing capabilities. You can set it up on a tree or buy a standalone hammock with a built-in steel stand.
Hammocks not only provide comfort on hot summer days but also create a great atmosphere for relaxing afternoons or evenings outside in your backyard.
8. Outdoor Blanket
For those chilly autumn nights, having a sturdy outdoor blanket is necessary. It allows you to cozy up under the stars and truly enjoy the experience in comfort.
9. Tabletop Fireplace
If you’re tight on space and still want to enjoy the cozy ambiance of a fire, a tabletop fireplace is a great choice. It adds a warm and glowing touch to your outdoor space, setting the perfect mood for those snug autumn nights with family and friends.
10. Giant Jenga
Playing Jenga brings back so many memories of playing Jenga with my siblings. Many of your guests will have the same feeling of nostalgia when playing with a life-size Jenga in the backyard. This will provide a wealth of backyard fun for you and your guests.
Use these instructions to DIY your Jenga pieces in just a few hours, or you can buy them assembled here.
11. Giant Connect 4
Set up a giant Connect Four in the backyard, either on the grass or on a patio. You don’t need a lot of space to do this, and everyone will love it. Playing a large version of this classic game can be an excellent way to bring friends and family together for some outdoor fun.
12. Hang a Swing
Swings are always a hit with kids! If you have trees in your backyard, you can hang up rope swings so they can enjoy them while playing outdoors.
Setting up a swing is incredibly easy. Just tie it to a sturdy branch and let their imaginations fly as they pretend they’re on an adventure high above the ground. This swing will provide hours of enjoyment for your young guests.
13. String Lights
Add a whimsical touch to your backyard with charming string lights. These fun outdoor lights will ensure your outdoor gatherings continue well into the evening, even after the sun has set.
14. Set up a Bird Feeder
A bird feeder can be an excellent way to add some entertainment to your backyard. By providing food and shelter for the birds, you can get front row seats to observe the behavior of various types of feathered friends.
It is a unique idea thatis incredibly easy to create and maintain. You can customize it to attract the type of birds that interest you.
15. Hot Tub Time
Have you considered an inflatable hot tub? After a long day of work, there’s nothing better than soaking in an outdoor spa and melting away your stresses. You can instantly turn your backyard into a retreat with a hot tub.
Even if you have limited space, a hot tub can provide relaxation and a fun social activity. With a variety of different hot tub styles available, you’re sure to find one that fits your backyard and your budget.
Buy an Inflatable Hot Tub on Amazon
16. Game of Corn Hole
Cornhole is an excellent lawn game that everyone seems to love. It is not only fun but very low-maintenance. This game will add a touch of charm to your outdoor space.
It is an easy game for all ages, and all that is needed is an open space. Invite your friends for an afternoon of friendly competition.
17. Horseshoe Game Set
A Horseshoe game set is not just for barnyards, but they are great for backyards too. Creatively Southern provides precise instructions on how to build a horseshoe pit in your backyard. Just don’t forget to buy the horseshoe set.
18. Build a Treehouse or Playhouse
Having a small treehouse or playhouse in the backyard is an enjoyable activity for children. Playgrounds are fun outdoor entertainment ideas for kids. Having a small playhouse can elevate your backyard.
Everyone will love the endless amount of entertainment and distraction it will provide to younger kids. It can be a great way to get them outside and encourage imaginative play.
Depending on the size of your yard, you may choose to build an elaborate structure with multiple levels or a smaller, more basic one. Consider adding features such as decks, fairy lights, rope ladders, trapdoors, and secret compartments.
19. Lawn Dominoes
Dominoes come with great excitement. Whether you play dominoes the American way, the Caribbean way, or you play games for money, it will surely get everyone’s competitive side out. Challenge yourself by DIYing this domino set over a weekend, or buy this lawn domino set if you are in a hurry to have fun.
20. Giant Twister Game
This game is not only great for getting your body moving, but it is a fun and lively element to any barbecue or outdoor gathering. Its colorful and eye-catching design will look great against your freshly manicured lawn. Just don’t forget to stay hydrated – you might never want to go back inside!
21. Giant Yahtzee
Ready to play a huge game of Yahtzee? Well, this one is sure to please the crowd. This one is easy to DIY with these super easy instructions, or you can buy a giant wooden Yahtzee here.
22. Giant Tic Toc Toe
Tic Toc Toe is the ultimate childhood game. It is a nostalgic game to play that is perfect for outdoor play. It’s a great floor game for kids and adults alike and will be guaranteed to be a hit at your next outdoor event.
Buy this Giant Tic-Tac-Toe here
23. An Inflatable Pool
For bigger yards, installing an in-ground or above-ground pool in the backyard is an excellent way for your guests to cool off on a hot day. However, this may require a hefty upfront investment. Alternatively, you can opt for something more temporary, like an inflatable pool.
A pool is loved by many, and it is an excellent option for families with more minor children or adults with friends who want to enjoy some aquatic activities.
Buy an Inflatable Pool on Amazon
24. Play Croquet
Croquet is a delightful backyard game that’s super easy to play. Croquet involves hitting wooden balls with mallets through hoops placed strategically around the lawn. Everyone will love playing this game. Grab yourself a croquet set to start the entertainment off right.
25. Basketball Hoop
If you have the space to accommodate a basketball hoop, this is a great backyard idea. Basketball is a team sport that tends to bring people together.
Your guests will love to play a game of basketball and battle against members of their group. You can opt for a whole basketball hoop on a stand or one that can be wall-mounted.
26. Volleyball Net
Installing a volleyball in the backyard is an easy way to create an outdoor game area that the whole family can enjoy. A volleyball net provides plenty of opportunities for team play or competitive one-on-one matches.
If you have a large enough backyard, it may be worth investing in this outdoor game. This will certainly help you stand out among your friends, family, and guests. Be sure to have multiple volleyballs on hand in case you lose or they deflate.
Buy this Franklin Sport Volleyball Net Set
27. Bocce Ball
Everyone loves some good ol’ bocce ball. If you are unfamiliar, backyard bocce is a game where players take turns throwing balls onto a lawn, trying to get as close as possible to the pallino (a white target ball). This low-maintenance game is easy to set up and install. This one is a must-have for backyard entertainment.
Grab this Bocce Ball Set on Amazon
28. Table Tennis or Ping Pong Table
Adding table tennis to your backyard can be a fun activity for family and friends. While you may not have the space for full tennis courts, table tennis is a good alternative for your backyard space.
This classic game is easy to set up and offers hours of entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, all you need is a paddle, a table, and some hand-eye coordination.
With a variety of table options available, ranging from lightweight models to weather-resistant designs, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your backyard. So why not add a touch of fun and a little friendly competition to your backyard with a game of table tennis?
29. Add a Mini Golf Putting Set
Oh, what fun it would be to have a miniature Mini golf putting course in the backyard! This will be sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Grab this mini golf putting set here.
And there you have it – a list of backyard entertainment ideas to elevate your backyard space to the next level. I hope you found these backyard entertainment ideas helpful.
Please comment below to let me know what you think of this article. Feel free also to follow me on my social media pages – Pinterest and Instagram, or subscribe to my mailing list for other design inspiration, DIY projects, and home decor ideas.
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
