Nothing brings people together like seasonal lawn games and fabulous weather.

Want to enjoy your yard more this season? Lawn games are a great way to get outdoors—whether it’s for a cookout, a birthday celebration, or a laid-back afternoon. With the right setup, your yard can be a space for both relaxing and connecting with others.

At HillSide Lawn Service, we love helping you get more out of your outdoor space. We keep your lawn healthy, green, and ready for whatever you’ve got planned. If you’re looking for easy, low-impact ways to bring new life to your yard, here are some of our favorite seasonal lawn games, along with tips to protect your turf while you play.

Spring: Let the Fun Begin

Spring beckons us to get outside. The weather is getting milder and everyone is eager to enjoy the sunshine. Our top spring picks:

• Bocce ball – This Italian classic involves tossing weighted balls to land closest to a target (the pallino). It’s simple to play, surprisingly competitive, and easy on the turf.
• Cornhole – A staple of outdoor gatherings, this bean bag toss game is a laid-back crowd-pleaser that works well on just about any patch of grass.
• Ladder toss – Players toss bolo balls onto a freestanding ladder structure. It’s lightweight, portable, and gentle on early-season turf.

Pro tip: After a long winter, your lawn needs time to recover. Avoid heavy foot traffic in soggy spots and try rotating play areas to give the turf a breather.

Summer: Bring on the Backyard Tournaments

Once summer hits, the backyard becomes your playground. It’s prime time for BBQs, holiday gatherings, and spontaneous games that go well into the evening. Three great summer games:

• Spikeball – A fast-paced blend of volleyball and four square, this high-energy game is as exciting to watch as it is to play. Be sure to move the net occasionally to prevent one spot from getting worn out.
• KanJam – Teams take turns tossing and deflecting a frisbee into a slot on a can-shaped target. It’s portable, perfect for parties, and easy on your lawn.
• Frisbee or disc golf – Whether you’re casually tossing a disc or setting up a backyard course, frisbee-based games bring big fun without damaging your turf.

Pro tip: Summer heat can stress your lawn, especially during droughts. Schedule games during cooler times of day (mornings or early evenings), and keep your lawn hydrated to help it recover.

Fall: Cool Weather and Cozy Vibes

Autumn means cooler weather, making it a beautiful season to be outdoors. The ground is firmer, the air is crisp, and there’s still plenty of daylight to enjoy. Fall favorites include:

• Croquet – A timeless game of precision, croquet involves knocking wooden balls through hoops using mallets. It’s gentle on your lawn and adds a touch of nostalgia.
• Ring toss or soft lawn darts – These classic games are perfect for all ages and require minimal space or setup.
• Pumpkin bowling – Yes, it’s a thing—and it’s a blast! Swap out the bowling ball for a small pumpkin and set up pins (or empty cans) on a flat part of the yard. It’s silly, seasonal, and lots of fun.

Pro tip: Leaves can hide obstacles or wet spots, so rake your lawn before playing. And if you haven’t already scheduled your fall lawn care, now’s the time. Aeration and overseeding will keep turf strong heading into winter.

Keep these lawn-friendly tips in mind.

No matter the season, a few small adjustments will keep your yard looking great while still making room for fun:

• Rotate game zones to avoid worn patches.
• Keep the gear light. Avoid dragging heavy boards or nets across the grass.
• Keep an eye on the weather. Wet turf is more prone to damage, so let it dry out before playing.
• Rely on HillSide. We’ll keep your lawn in tip-top shape, so you can play without worrying about wear and tear.

Your yard isn’t just for show—it’s meant for enjoyment all year long. With the right seasonal lawn games and some savvy care, you can turn your backyard into the ultimate hangout spot without sacrificing the health of your grass.

Ready to give your lawn the support it needs for a full season of fun? From spring prep to summer treatments and fall recovery, HillSide Lawn Service has your back. Contact us today at 410.399.2207 or hillsidelawn.com to get your yard play-ready!

About HillSide Lawn Service: Since 1994, HillSide Lawn Service has offered expert lawn care, including aeration and overseeding and tree and shrub care. With a focus on sustainable, science-based methods and personalized service, HillSide is the trusted source for creating green, healthy lawns throughout Maryland, Delaware and parts of Pennsylvania. For more information or to request a free estimate, visit www.hillsidelawn.com or call 410-399-2207.