Labor Day Lawn Games

By Chris Frey
September 6, 2010

(Photo Credit: Jupiterimages)

Many of us are pinching pennies these days, trading in lavish getaways for simpler "staycations." But even on your home turf it can be a challenge to invent cost effective yet inspired ways to keep yourself, family and friends entertained. Recently, we’ve discovered that many of the traditional lawn games we witnessed our parents and grandparents playing are making a comeback in a big way, as younger generations get in on the action and fun. eBay has seen a surge in recent listings for bocce (up 93 percent over last summer), croquet (up 28 percent) and horseshoes (up 14 percent) sets and offers charming vintage wooden badminton and bowling sets.

Lawn games are quick to learn, easy to score and require compact equipment that is generally portable, perfect for hauling to friends' homes or local parks. The games are competitive, but in most cases, won’t make you break a sweat. For families, especially those with small children, lawn games are a perfect opportunity to include the kids in “grown-up” games. And, best of all, there’s no need to slip into cumbersome “gear” or to possess the strength and skill of a trained athlete.

Bars and restaurants nationwide, seeking ways to enhance their patron’s experiences, have embraced vintage games such as petanque, originated in 1907 in southern France, and bocce, which has roots in the ancient games of the Roman Empire. Horseshoe, croquet and lawnbBowling leagues in neighborhood parks are serving as multigenerational unifiers where an elderly retiree might face off with a recent college grad in competition. These games have been uniting families for decades, reminding us that the simplicity of a day spent in the backyard can sometimes be the most meaningful and memorable summer break of all.

So, in honor of Labor Day weekend, we’ve rounded up a few favorites that we hope will inspire some good old fashioned fun into your last days of summer and for years to come.

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