How to Play Old-Fashioned Lawn Games

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:PlayOldFashionedLawnGames
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How to Play Old-Fashioned Lawn Games

Introduction

What better way to celebrate summer vacation than by playing some old-fashioned lawn games. Badminton, croquet and horseshoes have been entertaining families for years. These games are not only fun, but quick and easy to set up during your next summer BBQ or picnic.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Play Badminton

Things You'll Need

  • 2 rackets
  • Birdie (shuttlecock)
  • Net

Steps

1

Step One

Set up a net in the middle of the lawn. It should be a level area away from any low tree branches or power lines.
2

Step Two

Each player should stand on either side of the net in opposite corners.
3

Step Three

The first player should serve with an underhand swing.
4

Step Four

If a player hits the birdie out of bounds or misses it altogether, the server gains a point or the receiver gets to serve.
5

Step Five

The first player to reach 15 points wins.

Play Croquet

Things You'll Need

  • Croquet hoops
  • Croquet balls
  • Croquet mallet

Steps

1

Step One

Set the 6 hoops into the ground according the chart that comes with the set.
2

Step Two

Assign each player a colored ball and mallet.
3

Step Three

Take a turn trying to hit the ball through each hoop. The first player to get their ball through the hoop gets a point.
4

Step Four

Move on to the next hoop once someone has hit their ball through the previous hoop.
5

Step Five

Win by getting the most points at the end of the match.

Tips & Warnings

  • Croquet can be played either individually or in pairs.

Play Horseshoes

Things You'll Need

  • Eight horseshoes
  • Two metal stakes
  • Copy of scoring guidelines for horseshoes

Steps

1

Step One

Set up the metal stakes 40 feet apart.
2

Step Two

Divide players into teams of two.
3

Step Three

Toss a coin to decide which team will pitch first.
4

Step Four

The first player throws two horseshoes, followed by the second player on his team.
5

Step Five

Once both teams have played, they swap playing ends.
6

Step Six

The first team to reach 21 points wins.

Tips & Warnings

  • Scoring for a match of horseshoes can be complicated. Beginners should keep a copy of the rules handy as they are playing.
  • "Official" horseshoe games have pits dug around the stakes. There is no reason you can't just play on your lawn, sans the gravel and dirt.
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