Hosting a birthday party at a park is a fantastic idea — extra space for energetic kids to run, explore, and play. Plus, clean-up is a breeze compared to hosting at home!
Whether you’re throwing a themed party or simply celebrating with friends in the sunshine, our new games guide — Party Games for the Park — is filled with fun, easy-to-run activities that work beautifully in an outdoor setting. These games have all been tested at real parties over the years, and we’ve included clear instructions and helpful tips to make your celebration a success.
Whether you’re planning for toddlers, big kids, or a mixed group, there’s something here for everyone.
🌴 Musical Islands
Place mats or paper “islands” around the play area. When the music plays, kids dance around; when it stops, they must jump onto an island. Reduce the number of islands as the game progresses.
Top tip: Make some islands bigger so they can fit more than one person on them.
🦆 Duck, Duck, Goose
Children sit in a circle. One child walks around the circle tapping heads — “duck, duck, duck… GOOSE!” The chosen goose jumps up and chases the tapper around the edge of the circle, trying to tag them before they sit down in the spot where the goose had been sitting.
Top tip: Make sure the space is soft and clear of obstacles.
🐊 Crocodile, Crocodile
A game of anticipation! One player (the crocodile) stands at one end. The others ask, “Crocodile, Crocodile, may we cross the golden river?” The crocodile answers with a condition (e.g., “yes but only if you’re wearing red”). Those who meet it cross safely — others must run without getting caught by the crocodile. If they are caught, they join the crocodile in the middle.
Top tip: Use cones to mark the area where the kids can and can’t run.
🏃 Relay Races
Relay races are perfect for encouraging friendly competition and to burn off energy. You can form teams or race individually, depending on the races you choose.
Some ideas for relays are balloon hopping relays, dress up races, crab walking, balancing plates, and the shoe box race. We have more ideas contained in our game guide.
Top tip: Have small prizes or ribbons ready for the winners — and don’t forget to celebrate good sportsmanship too.
🏴☠️ Pirate’s Life Game
Players follow the pirate captain’s commands like “Walk the plank!” or “Climb the rigging!” The pirate captain eliminates anyone who gets the command wrong.
Top tip: Dress the caller in a pirate hat for extra character!
✂️ Paper, Scissors, Rock Tag
Two teams face off. When the leader shouts “Go!” each team plays paper, scissors, rock. The winner chases the loser back to base. Those who get tagged join the other team!
Top tip: Quick rounds keep everyone engaged and active.
🍪 Cookie Face
A hilarious game that always gets the giggles going! Players place a cookie on their forehead and try to move it into their mouth using only facial muscles — no hands allowed!
Top tip: Use round, not-too-crumbly cookies like Oreos.
💃 Limbo
How low can you go? Use a rope, pool noodle, or broomstick. Players dance or step under without touching it. Lower the bar after each round!
Top tip: Play some fun music to set the vibe!
✅ Don’t Forget: The Park Party Checklist
Planning an outdoor party comes with its own challenges — weather, supplies, and making sure you remember to take everything to the park. That’s why we’ve included a handy To-Do List Template in our Games Guide to help you stay organized and stress-free. It includes key reminders like:
- 🎂 Packing the candles and matches for the birthday cake
- 🌞 Packing sunscreen, insect repellent and a first-aid kit
- 🤝 Organising some helpers
- ☔ Having a wet-weather backup plan
With the right games and a little prep, a party in the park can be one of the most joyful and memorable celebrations your kids will have.
🎈 Download your guide today — and let the games begin!
