Memorial Day is one of those holidays where the kids show up ready to run around… and about 20 minutes later, they’re bored and asking what’s next. But don’t worry. That’s where a few simple games can save the day. The best Memorial Day games for kids don’t need a ton of setup. They’re easy to explain, quick to jump into, and just chaotic enough to keep things fun. So, without further ado, let’s get into these 10 Memorial Day games and activities for kids.
1. SACK RACE
You really can’t go wrong with a classic sack race, especially if you’re looking for a Memorial Day game you can play outdoors. It’s simple but hilarious. And someone is likely going to wipe out at some point during the game, which is just half the fun. You can have the adults join in on this one, too.
To play, each kid stands inside a sack (or even a pillowcase works) and hops their way to the finish line. First one across wins. You could also turn this into a relay if you want to make it more team-based.
2. WATER BALLOON TOSS
If it’s even remotely hot out, this summer water game is a must. Pair kids up and give each pair a water balloon. They toss it back and forth, taking a step back after every successful catch. Eventually… someone drops it and gets soaked. Last pair with an unpopped balloon wins!
3. RED, WHITE, AND BLUE SCAVENGER HUNT
Who doesn’t love a good scavenger hunt? This Memorial Day game for kids will require a bit more setup, but it’s worth it! Before the party, hide items (or have kids find things) that match the Memorial Day theme. You can keep it simple or get creative. Here are some ideas:
- Something red
- Something blue
- A flag
- Something that makes noise
- Something you’d bring to a BBQ
You can have kids play individually or in teams. First to find everything wins.
4. PATRIOTIC MUSICAL CHAIRS
It’s musical chairs (one of our favorite indoor games for kids)… just with a Memorial Day playlist. To play, set up chairs in a circle (one less than the number of players), play music, and have the kids walk around. When the music stops, everyone scrambles for a seat. Whoever doesn’t get one is out.
Each round, remove a chair and keep going. Last player remaining wins!
5. THREE-LEGGED RACE
To play a three-legged race, pair kids up and tie one of their legs together so they have to move as one. Then, they race to the finish line. That’s it.
We know it sounds easy… but coordination can be hard! Expect a lot of falling over and laughing.
6. FREEZE DANCE
Freeze Dance is one of the easiest kids’ games you can throw together on Memorial Day with zero setup. Just play music and let the kids dance however they want. When the music stops, they have to freeze immediately.
If someone moves after the music stops? They’re out. Last player remaining wins.
7. FRISBEE TOSS
One of our favorite summer camp games is actually perfect for Memorial Day for kids as well! To play Frisbee Toss, set up targets around your yard, like buckets, cones, or even just marked spots on the ground. Then, have kids take turns tossing a frisbee and trying to land it as close as possible.
You can keep it simple or add some structure:
- 1 point for landing near the target
- 3 points for landing inside
- First to 10 (or highest score after a few rounds) wins
8. LIMBO
Another easy Memorial Day game for kids is limbo. All you need to play is a stick (or pool noodle) and some music. Have two people hold the bar while kids take turns leaning backward and trying to pass underneath without touching it. If they touch it, they’re out! After each round, lower the bar.
The last player left standing wins.
9. TUG-O-WAR
Tug-o-war is one of the easiest games to set up for kids on Memorial Day. To play, split everyone into two teams, grab a rope, and pull. That’s literally it.
10. SIDEWALK CHALK ART
Not every activity needs to be high-energy. Sometimes, kids just want to chill out for a bit, and this Memorial Day activity for kids is perfect for that.
Simply give them some chalk and let them draw whatever they want. If you want to keep it on theme, you can ask them to draw something quintessentially American, like a flag, eagle, or even something fun like a burger!
- 10 Memorial Day Games and Activities for Kids - April 13, 2026
- 20 Outdoor Games for Memorial Day - April 6, 2026
- 10 Super Fun Easter Games for Church - March 16, 2026