Free Picnic Relay Games
Some of the easiest and least expensive games to plan for your next picnic are relay races. There are literally hundreds of variations of this simple game, and they are perfect for kids of all ages.
One relay race that is fun for small and large groups is called the “Gorilla Race.” To setup, mark a starting line and a finish line with cones. The race’s distance should be about 20 to 30 yards or longer if you have a young, fit group. Next, divide players into equal teams and have teams line up at the starting line. The first players to race are to bend over and grab their ankles. When the referee calls, “Go,” the players are to race to the finish line and back while maintaining hold of their ankles. Any players that remove their hands from their ankles will have to go back to the starting line and start over. Once the first player has returned to the start line, the next player begins. The race will continue until one team has had all of their players successfully complete the race.
A relay race that is particularly great for large groups is called “Spoon Relay.” To get ready, divide teams into groups of 6 or 8 players. You will need one bucket of water, one medium sized empty glass jar, and a large spoon for each team. Have teams line up behind the bucket of water and give the first racer in each team a spoon. When the race begins, the first players will fill their spoon with water from the bucket, run over to the empty jar, and pour the water in. They will then run back to their team and give the spoon to the next player. The object of the game is to fill the jar completely with water. For visual effect, consider adding food coloring to the water or use juice instead.
The truly classic relay race that has been played at picnics for generations is the three-legged race. Have the group divide into pairs, and make sure that children are paired with adults if possible. To start, tie scarves or bandanas around the inside ankles of teammates and mark a start and finish line with cones or flags. Players are to stand at the start line and when the game begins, they are to race to the finish.. The first team to make it to the finish line wins.
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