25 DIY Party Games for Kids

Planning a kids’ party can be thrilling, but let’s be honest—it can also feel like a lot of pressure to make sure everyone has a great time. One of the best ways to guarantee fun is with games that don’t cost a fortune. DIY party games are the perfect solution because they’re creative, budget-friendly, and customizable.

These games allow you to cater to your child’s unique interests while keeping guests entertained and engaged. Whether you’re hosting indoors or outdoors, this list of 25 DIY games is packed with ideas that will turn any gathering into an unforgettable celebration. Let’s dive in and explore some easy-to-create options that everyone will love!

1. Balloon Pop Relay

This energetic game combines teamwork, laughter, and a bit of suspense. Kids love the challenge of popping balloons, making it perfect for groups. Set up a pile of balloons at one end of the space, divide kids into teams, and let them race to pop their balloon before tagging the next player.

The popping method—sitting, stomping, or squeezing—adds an extra layer of hilarity. The relay format keeps everyone engaged as they cheer for their team. It’s an excellent icebreaker to kick off the party with bursts of excitement.

2. DIY Ring Toss

Ring toss is a timeless game that’s even more special when you make it yourself. Use empty bottles as the targets and create rings from glow sticks or cardboard. Arrange the bottles in fun patterns, and kids can take turns trying to land their rings.

The game’s simplicity appeals to all ages, and you can adjust the difficulty by moving the throwing line. It’s an activity that’s as entertaining as it is visually appealing, especially with brightly colored bottles.

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3. Treasure Hunt Adventure

A treasure hunt adds a sense of adventure to any party. Hide small toys or treats around the space and provide kids with a simple treasure map or clues to follow. They can work in teams or hunt solo, depending on the group’s size.

Adding a theme, such as pirates or jungle explorers, enhances the excitement. Challenges or riddles along the way make it interactive, keeping kids engaged as they solve each step to uncover the prize.

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4. Pin the Tail on the Donkey

This classic game is easily customized to match your party theme. Instead of a donkey, you can use a unicorn, dinosaur, or any character your child loves. Create detachable tails, horns, or other items for kids to pin in the right place.

Blindfolds and a few gentle spins add a hilarious twist as kids attempt to pin their piece. It’s a nostalgic game that’s simple to set up and guarantees laughs as participants aim far from the target.

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5. Obstacle Course Fun

Obstacle courses are a fantastic way to burn off energy. Set one up using household items like chairs, cones, and pool noodles. Add tasks such as crawling under tables, hopping through hoops, or balancing on a beam.

For an extra thrill, introduce a theme like spies or jungle explorers. Timed challenges encourage friendly competition, and the variety of tasks ensures no one gets bored.

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6. Freeze Dance

Few games are as easy and fun as Freeze Dance. Play some upbeat music and let kids show off their moves. When the music stops, everyone freezes, and anyone caught moving is out.

The game continues until one dancer remains. It’s a lively activity that combines creativity with quick reflexes, and it’s a surefire way to keep the energy high.

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7. Water Cup Race

This simple outdoor game is perfect for warm-weather parties. Kids race while balancing cups of water, aiming to reach the finish line without spilling too much.

The player with the most water left wins, adding a fun twist to the typical race. It’s a refreshing activity that’s great for summer gatherings.

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8. Potato Sack Race

The potato sack race is a party staple that’s endlessly entertaining. Provide each child with a sack or sturdy pillowcase and set up a racecourse.

Watching kids hop to the finish line is always hilarious, and it’s an excellent way to add some friendly competition. This game works perfectly outdoors but can also be adapted for indoor spaces.

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9. DIY Photo Booth Scavenger Hunt

Combine the creativity of a photo booth with the excitement of a scavenger hunt. Set up props like hats and costumes and give kids a list of fun photo challenges to complete.

Tasks might include “pose like a superhero” or “take a silly group selfie.” It’s an interactive activity that leaves you with plenty of memorable photos from the day.

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10. Cup Stack Challenge

Stacking cups might sound simple, but it quickly turns into a competitive and exciting game. Give kids a set number of cups and a flat surface to build their towers.

The challenge is to build the tallest tower before time runs out. Adding rules, like using only one hand, increases the difficulty and keeps things interesting.

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11. Giant Tic-Tac-Toe

Turn this classic game into a larger-than-life experience. Use chalk or tape to draw a grid on the floor or ground and provide bean bags or frisbees as markers.

Kids take turns trying to get three in a row while blocking their opponent. The jumbo size adds a layer of excitement that smaller versions can’t match.

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12. DIY Slime Station

Slime-making is a surefire hit with kids. Set up a station with glue, food coloring, glitter, and activator, and let kids create their own slime to take home.

The process is hands-on and messy in the best way. It’s also a fantastic activity to keep kids occupied while providing a fun keepsake from the party.

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13. Bean Bag Toss

Create a fun bean bag toss game using a cardboard box with cutout holes of various sizes. Decorate the box to match your party theme and assign points to each hole.

Kids can take turns aiming for the highest score, adding a competitive edge. It’s a simple but highly entertaining game for any gathering.

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14. Bubble Wrap Stomp

This game is as easy as laying out a sheet of bubble wrap and letting kids stomp to their heart’s content. The satisfying pops keep everyone entertained.

Set a timer and challenge kids to see who can pop the most bubbles. It’s a low-prep, high-fun activity that guarantees giggles.

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15. Guess the Jellybeans

Fill a clear jar with jellybeans and ask kids to guess how many are inside. The closest guess wins the jar of treats.

It’s a quieter game that works well as a break from more active activities. Plus, it adds a touch of suspense and anticipation.

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16. DIY Mini Bowling

Turn your hallway into a bowling alley with plastic bottles as pins and a small rubber ball. Arrange the pins in a triangular formation and let kids take turns bowling.

Glow sticks inside the bottles make it perfect for nighttime parties. It’s a simple yet engaging game that kids of all ages enjoy.

17. Paper Airplane Contest

Let kids design and fold their own paper airplanes, then compete to see whose flies the farthest. This game combines creativity with friendly competition.

It’s low-prep and can be played indoors or outdoors, making it a versatile option. The fun lies in the process as much as the competition.

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18. DIY Fishing Game

Set up a fishing game using a kiddie pool or large container filled with water. Attach magnets to toy fish and create fishing rods with sticks and string.

Kids can “fish” for prizes or points, adding a sense of accomplishment to the activity. It’s a magical and engaging game that works well for younger children.

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19. Hopscotch Challenge

Recreate the playground classic with chalk or tape. Kids take turns hopping through the grid without stepping on the lines.

This simple game encourages coordination and active play. It’s nostalgic for parents and a hit with kids of all ages.

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20. DIY Puzzle Race

Use store-bought puzzles or create your own by cutting a picture into pieces. Challenge kids to complete their puzzles as quickly as possible.

This game encourages problem-solving and teamwork if played in groups. It’s a quieter activity that’s perfect for winding down.

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21. Hula Hoop Contest

A hula hoop contest is always a crowd-pleaser. Challenge kids to see who can keep their hoop spinning the longest or introduce variations like hooping with one hand.

The simplicity of this game makes it a hit, and it’s a great way to get kids moving. It’s perfect for outdoor parties or spacious indoor areas.

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22. DIY Carnival Games

Bring the carnival to your party with simple games like ring toss, ball toss, or a duck pond. Use items like bottles, cups, and rubber ducks to create the setup.

Each game offers a chance to win small prizes, keeping kids motivated and engaged. It’s a great way to add variety to your activities.

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23. Charades for Kids

Charades is a timeless game that sparks laughter and creativity. Write prompts like animals or actions on slips of paper and let kids act them out.

This no-materials-required game is perfect for any space and encourages kids to express themselves in fun and silly ways.

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24. Limbo Challenge

How low can you go? A limbo challenge is an exciting way to get kids moving. Use a broomstick or pool noodle as the bar and lower it after each round.

The last child to pass under without touching the bar wins. It’s a game that’s as fun to watch as it is to play.

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25. DIY Piñata Smash

End the party with a bang by making your own piñata. Use papier-mâché and decorate it to match the theme. Fill it with candy and small toys for added excitement.

Kids take turns trying to smash it open while blindfolded. The anticipation builds with every swing, making it a memorable highlight of the party.

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Wrapping It Up

These 25 DIY party games are the perfect recipe for a fun and unforgettable celebration. From active challenges like obstacle courses to creative activities like slime-making, there’s something here for everyone. The best part? These games are budget-friendly, easy to set up, and customizable to any theme.

Pick a few of your favorites and watch as the kids dive into the fun. The laughter, energy, and excitement will turn your party into a day they’ll talk about for years to come. Happy planning!