50 fun games to play when hosting an event (For All Ages & Occasions)

Meta description: Hosting a party? Discover 50 fun games for kids, teens, and adults—perfect for birthdays, family events, work parties & more!

Every good event has food, music, and people you love. But you know what really makes it memorable? The laughs, the inside jokes, the moments you still talk about weeks later. And those moments often come from the games you play. 

Whether you’re hosting a birthday, a family get-together, or something in between, the right games can bring everyone closer. 

This list is packed with fun ideas for all kinds of events, so no one’s stuck scrolling their phone or awkwardly standing around.

Let’s get right into it: 

Icebreaker Games (to kick things off)

Starting things off with strangers or even friends who haven’t seen each other in a while? These icebreakers help loosen everyone up, spark conversation, and flow energy without putting anyone on the spot.

Two Truths and a Lie

Each person shares three statements about themselves, two true and one false. Others have to guess which is the lie. It’s a fun way to learn quirky facts about people and spark unexpected conversations.

Human Bingo

Create bingo cards with fun facts like “Has traveled to Asia” or “Can whistle.” Guests walk around trying to find people who match the facts. First to fill a row or the whole card wins. It’s a great way to get everyone mingling.

Would You Rather?

Pose fun or silly “Would you rather…” questions to the group (e.g., “Would you rather only eat pizza or tacos forever?”). It gets people laughing, debating, and opening up without pressure.

Who Am I?

Each person gets a name (celebrity, character, etc.) taped to their forehead. They ask yes-or-no questions to figure out who they are. It’s silly, fun, and gets people talking fast.

This or That

Give people two quick choices: coffee or tea, beach or mountains. They answer quickly, revealing their preferences while getting to know others. It’s great for keeping things light and moving fast.

Name Game

Everyone says their name with an adjective that starts with the same letter (e.g., “Jolly James” or “Creative Clara”). Then the next person has to repeat all the names before adding their own. It’s fun, challenging, and helps with name memory!

Party Games for Adults

Adult gatherings are more fun when you add a little mischief, competition, and laughter. These games are perfect for breaking the ice, stirring up chaos, and keeping everyone entertained well into the night.

Heads Up

One player holds a card or phone to their forehead, showing a word they can’t see. The rest of the group gives clues until the word is guessed, or time runs out. It’s fast-paced, loud, and hilarious. The guessing can get wild, and watching friends act out clues is half the fun.

Cards Against Humanity

Players take turns reading a fill-in-the-blank statement, and others respond using cards with edgy, hilarious phrases. The funniest or most outrageous response wins. With the right group, this game sparks nonstop laughter and plenty of playful shock value. It’s best suited for adults who don’t mind crossing the line a little.

Drunk Jenga

This version of Jenga adds a fun twist—each block has a dare, challenge, or rule written on it. When someone pulls a piece, they must follow what’s written before adding it to the top. From taking a drink to singing a song, every move brings laughs and unpredictable surprises.

Most Likely To

Each player takes turns asking “Who’s most likely to…” questions, like “…cry during a movie” or “…go skydiving.” Everyone points to the person they think fits the statement. It’s a lighthearted way to learn how others see you—and to start some hilarious conversations.

Flip Cup

Split into teams. Players take turns drinking from a plastic cup and flip it upside down by flicking the rim. Once one player succeeds, the next goes. The first team to finish wins. It’s high-energy, messy, and perfect for groups ready for fast-paced fun and friendly competition.

Truth or Drink

Players ask each other personal, funny, or bold questions. You either answer honestly or take a drink instead. It’s a fun way to open up, share juicy stories, or take the safe (and sometimes safer) route. Perfect for close friends or a bold group of new ones.

Family-Friendly Games

These games are perfect for all ages, ensuring everyone from the youngest to the oldest has a blast. Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, these games bring everyone together for fun, laughter, and plenty of bonding moments.

Charades

Split into teams and take turns acting out a word or phrase without speaking while the others guess. It’s always a hit, full of laughs and awkwardly hilarious moments. The best part? Anyone can play, making it ideal for a mixed-age crowd where everyone can show off their acting chops.

Pictionary

Grab a pad, some markers, and let the drawing begin! One person sketches a word or phrase while their team guesses what it is. It’s fast-paced, competitive, and full of laughs as everyone tries to decipher sometimes messy (and hilarious) sketches. Perfect for family bonding.

Hot Potato

A classic! Sit in a circle and pass an object around while music plays. When the music stops, whoever holds the “hot potato” is out. The last player remaining wins. It’s simple, fast, and fun, and it always gets everyone laughing—especially the ones left holding the potato.

Simon Says

One person acts as “Simon” and gives commands like “Simon says touch your toes.” Players must only follow the command if “Simon says” first. If Simon doesn’t say it, anyone who follows is out. It’s a great game for younger kids but still hilarious for adults who forget the rules!

Telephone

Start with a phrase and whisper it into the ear of the next player. They pass it along, and by the time it reaches the end, it’s often hilariously distorted. The final player says the phrase out loud, and everyone compares the difference. It’s a perfect laugh-inducing game for all ages.

Balloon Pop Challenge

Each player ties a balloon to their ankle and tries to pop everyone else’s balloon while protecting their own. It’s chaotic, loud, and full of energy, ideal for kids and adults alike. The last person with an unpopped balloon wins, and everyone has a blast trying to outmaneuver each other.

Kids’ Party Games

These games are sure to get the kids giggling, moving, and enjoying every moment of the party. Whether you’re indoors or outside, they’re perfect for burning off some energy and making lasting memories.

Musical Chairs

Place chairs in a circle (one less than the number of players) and play music. When the music stops, everyone must find a chair to sit in. The person left standing is out. Keep going until there’s only one player remaining. It’s simple, competitive, and always full of surprises.

Duck Duck Goose

Players sit in a circle while one person walks around tapping others on the head, saying “duck, duck…” until they choose someone to be the “goose.” The goose chases the tapper around the circle. If they’re tagged before returning to the seat, the goose takes their place.

Pin the Tail on the Donkey

Blindfolded players take turns trying to pin a paper tail onto a donkey poster. They must spin around a few times before being guided to the right spot. It’s a classic game that’s simple yet full of laughter, especially with younger kids.

Freeze Tag

One player is “It” and tries to tag others. When tagged, players freeze in place and can only be “unfrozen” by another player. It’s a fun and energetic game that’s perfect for kids who love to run around and stay active.

Bean Bag Toss

Set up a target (like a bucket or hula hoop) and let the kids take turns tossing bean bags into it. Each successful throw scores points. The game is simple, but it’s fun to see who can land the most throws, and it helps develop hand-eye coordination.

Candy Hunt

Hide wrapped candies around the yard or house and let the kids search for them. You can give clues or set up a timed challenge. It’s an exciting scavenger hunt that keeps kids busy and engaged while letting them explore the party area.

Outdoor Games

When the weather’s right, nothing beats getting outside and letting everyone enjoy the fresh air. These outdoor games are great for groups and are sure to bring lots of fun and laughter.

Sack Race

Players race to the finish line while hopping inside a sack. The first one to cross the line wins. It’s a great way to burn off energy, and the hopping action always leads to hilarious moments as everyone tries to stay balanced.

Tug of War

Two teams compete to pull a rope in opposite directions. The goal is to get the other team over a line or marker. It’s a great team-building game that’s full of friendly competition and physical fun. Plus, it always brings out the laughs!

Obstacle Course

Create a fun obstacle course using items like cones, ropes, and hula hoops. Players must navigate the course as quickly as possible. It’s a fantastic game for all ages, and you can adjust the difficulty to make it more challenging or easy, depending on the players.

Kickball

A combination of baseball and soccer, players kick the ball and run around bases. The team with the most runs wins. This classic outdoor game is perfect for large groups and encourages teamwork, friendly competition, and lots of fun.

Water Balloon Toss

Pair up players and have them toss a water balloon back and forth, taking a step back with each successful catch. The last pair standing with an unbroken balloon wins. It’s a cooling, fun game, especially on a hot day.

Capture the Flag

Split into two teams and place a flag on each side of the playing area. The objective is to grab the opposing team’s flag and bring it back to your side without being tagged. It’s a fast-paced game that involves strategy, teamwork, and plenty of running.

Creative and DIY Games

Sometimes, the best games are the ones you create yourself! These creative games will spark your imagination and allow for some hands-on fun, with a bit of crafting and personal flair.

Balloon Pop Art

Grab some balloons, markers, and paint, and let everyone decorate their balloon with their creative flair. Afterward, players try to pop each other’s balloons using various challenges, such as sitting on them or using a pin. It’s a colorful, active, and imaginative game that keeps everyone on their toes.

DIY Scavenger Hunt

Create a custom scavenger hunt based on your party’s theme. Give players a list of things to find or do, like “take a selfie with the birthday guest” or “find a blue pen.” It’s a great way to get people moving around and thinking creatively, with plenty of laughs along the way.

Cup Stack Race

Give each player a stack of plastic cups and challenge them to build and then unstack them as fast as possible. For added creativity, make the cups into a pyramid or design the game with a time limit. It’s fast, competitive, and perfect for testing dexterity!

Pin the Tail on the Unicorn

A fun spin on the classic “Pin the Tail on the Donkey,” this DIY version involves a large poster of a unicorn with a missing tail. Blindfolded players take turns trying to pin the tail in the right spot. It’s playful and perfect for adding a whimsical touch to any party.

DIY Puzzle Race

Create simple puzzles by cutting a picture into several pieces. Players race to see who can put their puzzle back together first. You can make it even more creative by using themed images related to the party or customizing the difficulty based on age groups.

Crafting Contest

Set up a crafting station with supplies like paper, glue, scissors, markers, and stickers. Challenge everyone to create the best or most creative design in a certain amount of time. It’s a low-pressure, fun game that lets everyone show off their creative side and makes great keepsakes.

Board and Card Games

Board and card games have stood the test of time because they bring people together for friendly competition, strategic thinking, and loads of laughs. Whether you’re playing classic games or newer ones, they’re perfect for keeping the fun going indoors.

Monopoly

This classic real-estate game lets players buy, sell, and trade properties to bankrupt their opponents. It’s a game of strategy, negotiation, and luck—perfect for a family or group of friends. Be prepared for some friendly rivalries and long games, but the thrill of victory is always worth it.

Uno

A fast-paced card game where players aim to get rid of all their cards by matching colors or numbers. Action cards like Skip, Reverse, and Draw Two keep things interesting, and the classic “UNO!” shout is always a fun moment when someone’s one card away from winning.

Clue

In this murder mystery game, players work as detectives to solve the crime by figuring out the who, what, and where. It’s a game of deduction and strategy, with players collecting clues to solve the puzzle before anyone else. It’s great for fans of mystery and suspense.

Exploding Kittens

A quirky card game where players draw cards until someone draws an Exploding Kitten card and loses the game. Special cards like Skip, Attack, and Defuse allow players to avoid kittens and try to trick others into drawing one. It’s fast, fun, and full of hilarious moments.

The Game of Life

Players move around the board, making life choices like choosing a career, getting married, or having kids. You collect money, deal with events, and try to retire with the most wealth. It’s a lighthearted, yet surprisingly strategic, game that mimics life’s ups and downs.

Codenames

In Codenames, two teams try to guess words based on one-word clues given by their teammates. The twist is that some words are “assassin” words that could end the game immediately if guessed. It’s a clever, wordy game that encourages strategic thinking and communication.

Trivia Games

Trivia games are perfect for testing your knowledge, learning something new, and having fun with friends. Whether you’re answering random questions or specific topics, these games add a competitive twist that keeps everyone engaged.

Trivial Pursuit

A classic trivia game where players answer questions from various categories like history, science, and pop culture. The goal is to collect pie pieces by answering questions correctly.

QuizUp

This app-based trivia game lets you compete with others in real-time across multiple categories. With thousands of topics to choose from, it’s perfect for testing your knowledge in a specific area. 

Jeopardy!

Based on the popular TV show, players are given clues in the form of answers and must respond with the correct question. The game covers various categories, making it both challenging and educational.

Movie Trivia

In this game, players answer questions based on famous movies, actors, or quotes. You can create your own trivia questions or use a pre-made set. It’s perfect for film buffs who love showing off their movie knowledge, and it brings everyone together with fun movie references.

Pub Quiz

A fun and relaxed trivia game often played in teams, where players answer questions across various topics, from history to current events. You can play it at home with friends or take it to a local bar. It’s easy to customize with different rounds like music, geography, or sports.

Brainiac

A challenging trivia game where players answer questions on a variety of topics, including science, history, and pop culture. Points are awarded for correct answers, and the player with the most points at the end wins. 

Interactive Games

Interactive games are all about getting players involved and having fun through active participation. These games often require movement, creativity, or teamwork and are perfect for getting everyone engaged and having a blast.

Pictionary

In this drawing game, players take turns sketching clues for their team to guess. It’s a test of artistic ability and quick thinking as players try to communicate a word or phrase through their drawings. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, with funny and often unrecognizable sketches.

Karaoke

Set up a karaoke machine or use a karaoke app to let players sing their favorite songs. Whether they’re solo performances or group efforts, karaoke is always a fun and interactive way to let loose, show off some vocal chops, and entertain the crowd.

Scavenger Hunt Relay

Create a list of items for players to find around the house or yard. Teams take turns running to retrieve one item at a time. The first team to collect all the items wins. It’s a great mix of speed, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Wrapping Up!

No matter what kind of event you’re hosting, these 50 games will bring fun, laughter, and excitement to any gathering. Whether you’re playing indoors, outdoors, or looking to get everyone involved, there’s something for every group. So, gather your friends, family, or guests, and let the games begin!

Got any favorite games that didn’t make the list? Drop them in the comments below! We’d love to hear your go-to party games.