Consider the ages and abilities of the children that will be present when planning yard games for your party. You don’t want anyone to feel left out. You may also want to have a list prepared and allow your guests to choose which game to play first. It would also be good to set your rules before the games begin, and be sure everyone understands them so there are no arguments. Here are some great games to try:

Tag: This is one game that children have played for centuries and it’s very simple. Someone is chosen to be “It” and then has to cover their eyes while everyone else hides. Be sure to choose a place for base so everyone can try to get there before being tagged. That person then becomes “It” and the game continues with that person trying to catch others.

Tug-of-War: Set up an area with a small wading pool and a rope long enough for everyone that wants to play. Mark the center of the rope with a bandana or tape and then have even-sided teams grab either end of the rope. They pull until one team has pulled the flag over a particular line, in this case it could be the edge of the pool. Don’t be surprised, however, if one side ends up getting wet, so be prepared with towels.

Scavenger Hunt: Before the party, make a list of ten things that should be able to be found in your yard. This could include a certain type of flower, rocks, feathers, or items that you specifically place in your yard. Give each player a list and let them go scavenging. Whoever returns with the most items, wins!

Croquet: This game has been around for a long time. You may want to have the game set up prior to guests arriving. The purpose is to guide a colored ball with a mallet of the same color through a series of pickets until you reach the end post. This game takes a little bit of skill, so it may not be suitable for younger children.

Water Balloon Toss: Expect someone to get wet, if not soaked, in this game – which may be a good thing if it’s extremely hot outside. Break the children up into pairs and give each of them a water balloon. Have the pairs start off close together tossing the balloon back and forth, stepping back one step after each successful catch. The person who wins is the last person to toss the balloon before it bursts.

These Fourth of July yard games for children aren’t only for this holiday. In fact, they can be played at any time of the year. They are tried and true games that children have enjoyed for years. Why not make them a part of your patriotic celebration. They’re sure to entertain until the firework show begins.