Fall Games to Ignite Play & Energy
As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, autumn is the perfect season to get outside and play. Whether you’re a PE teacher, youth leader, or camp director, fall brings endless opportunities to engage your group with games that build teamwork, agility, and laughter.
Here are some of our favorite fall group games to keep everyone moving, learning, and having fun — no screens required.
1. Leaf Relay Toss
How to play:
Split into two teams, each with a pile of leaves at their start line. On “go,” players scoop up leaves (with their hands or small buckets) and race to dump them in a goal zone. The first team to transfer all their leaves wins.
Why it works:
It’s simple, fast-paced, and captures the fun of the season. Great as a warm-up or team energizer.
2. 9 Square in the Air
How to play:
Set up your 9 Square in the Air frame outdoors and let the fun begin. Players volley the ball through their squares, trying to work their way up to the center “King” square while avoiding elimination.
Why it works:
9 Square combines the teamwork of volleyball with the strategy of four square — perfect for youth groups, schools, and fall festivals. It’s easy to set up, keeps large groups involved, and can be played with jackets and gloves when the air turns cool.
Pro tip: Keep an extra ball handy for fast rotations and nonstop fun.
3. Pumpkin Pass
How to play:
Form a circle and use a small pumpkin (or a soft ball). Players pass it overhead, under legs, or sideways according to your call. Drop it? Quick challenge round (10 jumping jacks) before rejoining.
Why it works:
It builds coordination, focus, and teamwork — and adds a lighthearted fall twist.
4. You.Fo Toss & Chase
How to play:
Grab your You.Fo set and play on an open field. Players throw, chase, and defend as they try to keep the You.Fo flying. Add light wind and fall weather for extra challenge and excitement.
Why it works:
You.Fo keeps everyone active and engaged — a great mix of running, strategy, and fun for middle school and up.
5. Capture the Acorns
How to play:
Scatter beanbags, pinecones, or seed pods around the field. Teams race to collect as many as possible while avoiding tags from opponents. Tagged players “freeze” until freed by a teammate.
Why it works:
It’s a fall-themed spin on Capture the Flag that encourages teamwork, strategy, and plenty of running.
6. BucketGolf
How to play:
Set up your BucketGolf course anywhere — the park, schoolyard, or even a field. Use 6 to 9 buckets as holes, mark them with cones or flags, and play with tennis balls and plastic clubs. Players take turns trying to reach each hole in the fewest shots.
Why it works:
It’s creative, adaptable, and perfect for mixed-age groups. Add leaf piles, trees, or benches as natural obstacles for a true fall challenge.
7. Fall Obstacle Course
How to play:
Design a quick course using cones, ropes, hoops, and leaf piles. Add stations like crawling under ropes, hopping through hoops, or carrying a pumpkin. Time individuals or teams to see who finishes fastest.
Why it works:
It’s a perfect blend of movement, competition, and laughter — ideal for PE warm-ups or youth events.
Tips for Hosting Fall Games Outdoors
- Check your surface: Remove wet leaves, branches, and debris for safe play.
- Dress for success: Encourage layers and shoes with grip — fall can be slick!
- Keep it light: Short rounds and lots of rotations keep energy high and kids warm.
- Make it festive: Add seasonal music, fall-themed challenges, or friendly team names.
- Encourage everyone: The best fall games are inclusive, fast-moving, and full of laughter.
Fall is the season of energy, connection, and play — and these games make the most of it. From 9 Square in the Air to BucketGolf and everything in between, you’ve got endless ways to get your group moving and smiling outdoors.