Everything Sucks, So Here Are 8 Fun Games to Play Outside This Summer

I know I am not the only one depressed by the state of the world right now, growing more and more incredulous and outraged with each passing day. If you work hard, and do what you can to make things better out there, it’s okay to take a break too. One of the best ways to recharge is to gather a group of friends, go outside, and indulge in some brainless fun this summer. Balance your rage/shock/concern with some wholesome/ridiculous/playful outdoor games. You might just make it through all this.

I’ve noticed a number of oversized lawn games on Instagram lately, based on old classics, that look like a good time. Here are eight favorites:

DIY Montreal created this huge wooden set, and has the tutorial over on her website. She reports they are extremely easy to make.

Ladder golf, or ladder ball, is new to me, but sign me up, because it looks fun. Lemon Thistle made this one.

Check out this giant tic-tac-toe game from Seeking Alexi. She bought some pre-cut wood letters at the craft store, then created the “board” with some thick string and large wooden balls.

It took Jenn of Build Basic about four hours and $60 to make a ginormous “four-in-a-row” game. (Pssst: that’s Connect Four if you didn’t get that.)

I still love this over-the-top ring toss game created by Ashley at Sugar & Cloth. If you aren’t into the flamingo idea, find something else for your plastic rings, perhaps a fake pineapple or two?

Michelle of Iron & Twine created this set of blue ombre dominos using pieces of wood and a paint template for the dots.

Jaime made these amazing mini golf courses for her backyard. All the how-tos and photos are over on That’s My Letter.

Another one from Lemon Thistle: a massive Jenga set made with pieces of stained wood.

Now, get out there all you kids, and have some fun this weekend while the world burns down.