As Memorial Day approaches, you're probably excited to host a fun-filled backyard gathering. But if you're wondering, "How can I keep kids entertained in a small backyard during a Memorial Day party?"—don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with 10 fantastic Memorial Day games and activities tailored for small spaces. These compact, engaging ideas will ensure the kids have a blast while you enjoy peace of mind knowing everyone is entertained and safe. Plus, I’ve included links to help you easily find and purchase supplies. Let’s dive into the fun with these kid-friendly activities perfect for a limited backyard area!
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What Are the Best Memorial Day Games for Kids in a Small Backyard?
Space is often a challenge for Memorial Day party hosts--especially if you have a small, urban or suburban back yard. How do you keep children entertained without overcrowding? The answer lies in choosing compact, engaging games that fit into tight areas while keeping the holiday spirit alive. Below, I’ve compiled a list of 10 space-saving games and activities to make your celebration a hit with the little ones. These ideas are designed for small suburban backyards and require minimal setup, ensuring maximum fun!
Bubble Play Area for Endless Fun
What is a bubble play area? It’s a simple, magical setup using a bubble machine or wands in the designated kid zone. Toddlers and young kids love chasing bubbles, and it requires almost no room—just a small corner works!
I like to set these spaces up in a clear, grassy area since kids watching bubbles do not watch where they are running! Hard surfaces can become slippery as bubbles land and pop, so be sure to be mindful of popped bubbles that stray into other party areas to keep everyone safe.
Grab the Gazillion Bubbles Hurricane Machine for non-stop bubble action.
Mini Patriotic Scavenger Hunt for Holiday Excitement
How do you set up a scavenger hunt in a small space? Hide tiny red, white, and blue items like plastic stars or patriotic pom-poms within a defined play area. Provide a picture checklist for non-readers to make the hunt inclusive. This themed game sparks curiosity and celebrates Memorial Day without needing much space.
If you have older kids, I love making a Memorial Day Selfie Scavenger Hunt that will take them throughout the house and yard or even out into the neighborhood to collect selfies as "proof" that they have found the items on the hunt checklist. This is also a great way to collect photo memories of the day while you are busy hosting and entertaining!
Chalk Drawing Station for Creative Expression
How do you set up a chalk drawing station? If you have a patio or driveway, set up a spot with a few buckets of sidewalk chalk for kids to draw flags, fireworks, or anything their imaginations conjure. It’s a creative, contained activity that doubles as temporary party décor for your Memorial Day event.
Water Play Bin for Sensory Cool-Down
How can a water play bin work in a small backyard? On warm days, set up a shallow bin filled with water and floatable toys like little boats or patriotic rubber duckies. Place it on a towel or mat to catch splashes. This small water playground offers sensory fun for toddlers, providing a cool and engaging way to play in a confined space.
For older kids, if you are extra brave an adventurous, offer water balloons or squirt toys--but, you may find moms and dads joining in on this fun too!
Simple Craft Kits for Quiet Creativity
What is an easy way to create crafts with kids at a Memorial Day gathering? Prepare pre-packed craft kits with paper, stickers, and markers so kids can create mini flags or other Memorial Day-themed crafts. Set these up on a blanket or small table for a low-mess, high-creativity station. Crafting is perfect for quieter moments, letting kids focus and express themselves. This wreath making kit is an easy craft for kids that come with loads of stickers to use in creating the wreaths!
Bean Bag Toss Game for Friendly Competition
How does a bean bag toss work in a small yard? Set up a compact bean bag toss game with a patriotic design to keep kids entertained. It helps develop hand-eye coordination and fits easily into a small area. You can purchase a ready-made set like the GoSports Portable Cornhole Board, which stores away neatly when not in use. If the space is really small, my go-to game is old-school TossAcross!
DIY Ring Toss for Skill-Building Fun
How can you make a DIY ring toss game? Create a simple ring toss using bottles as targets and rings for kids to throw. Label bottles with point values to add excitement. This timeless game is compact and adaptable for small spaces.
No time to make your own game? Get started with a pre-made Ring Toss Game Set if you prefer a ready-to-go option.
Pin the Stripe on the Flag for Holiday Laughs
How do you play Pin the Stripe on the Flag? In a playful twist on “Pin the Tail on the Donkey,” hang a printed flag poster and give kids paper stripes backed with some tape to attach while blindfolded. Adjust the difficulty based on age groups. This game is a hilarious, space-saving way to tie into the Memorial Day theme and bring lots of laughter to your party.
Sack Race for Energetic Fun
Can you do a sack race in a small backyard? If you have a bit of open space, a sack race is a fantastic way to burn off energy. Use burlap sacks or old pillowcases for kids to hop in. Set up a short racing course away from obstacles for safety. It’s a classic game that encourages friendly competition in a limited area. Check out these Reusable Sack Race Bags (affiliate link) for an easy setup.
Patriotic Story Circle for a Calming Break
What is a patriotic story circle? Gather kids in a small circle on a blanket for a storytelling session with Memorial Day themes, such as stories about heroes or patriotic celebrations. Use picture books or make up simple tales to keep them engaged. It’s a no-space-needed activity perfect for winding down. Pick up a themed book like “The Poppy Lady” by Barbara E. Walsh to inspire your storytelling.
Why Choose Space-Saving Games for Your Memorial Day Party?
Small backyards can still host big fun with games tailored to the space. These games and ideas fit well into small party areas, need minimal gear or setup time and are great for busy families planning a Memorial Day celebration. Plus, many tie into the holiday’s patriotic theme, adding an educational element to the fun.
Conclusion: Make Your Memorial Day Unforgettable with these Kid-Friendly Ideas!
Try some (or all) of these ten Memorial Day games for kids! Watch your boring backyard transform into party central. From bubble play to patriotic scavenger hunts, this list offers ideas for kids of all ages. So, gear up for a memorable holiday party and settle in to watch the kids have a blast. Have a favorite game or tip? Drop it in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Happy Memorial Day!
Check out our curated list of Space Saving Memorial Day Games for Kids on our Amazon Storefront!
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