What “I’m going on a picnic” is
“I’m going on a picnic” is a spoken group game with no equipment. It has two common versions that share the same opening line, so it helps to agree on which one you are playing before you start:
- A memory alphabet game, where the group builds up a growing list of items.
- A secret rule guessing game, where a leader hides a rule about what can go to the picnic.
Both work in a car, around a campfire or on a blanket in the park, and both suit a wide range of ages. For longer drives, see bus trip games. Rules vary a bit between families and groups, so adjust as you like.
Version 1: the memory alphabet game
Goal: Remember and repeat a growing list of items in order.
How to play
- Players sit in a circle.
- The first player says, “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m going to bring…” and adds an item starting with A, for example “ants”.
- The second player repeats the whole sentence, including the first item, and adds an item starting with B, for example “ants and a basket”.
- Each following player repeats everything so far and adds an item for the next letter.
- A player who forgets an item or gets the order wrong is out, or the game can simply stop and restart. The game ends when only one player is left, or when the group reaches Z.
Tips and variations
- Go easy on younger players. Let them use a picture prompt, or allow the group to whisper hints.
- Use categories. Everything must be food, or everything must be something you’d find outdoors.
- Play cooperatively. Instead of eliminating anyone, see how far the group can get as a team.
- Use a helper. One person writes the list down for checking disputes.
- Hard letters. Allow a pass or a rhyme for letters like Q, X and Z.
Version 2: the secret rule guessing game
Goal: Work out the hidden rule that decides which items can come to the picnic.
How to play
- One player is the leader and secretly picks a rule. Examples: only items that start with the letter E, only green things, only items with four letters, or only things that come in pairs.
- Players take turns saying, “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m going to bring [item].”
- The leader answers yes (you can bring it) or no (you can’t), based on the secret rule.
- Players listen to the answers and work out the rule. When someone thinks they know it, they test it with a new item that fits the rule, but without saying it aloud.
- Once several players have figured it out, the leader can ask them to reveal the rule. Then a new leader picks a new rule.
Tips for leaders
- Start with easy rules, such as starting letters, then move on to harder ones, such as the number of syllables.
- Keep answers short and don’t give hints.
- Choose rules the group can solve in a few minutes.
- Players who work it out first can keep quiet and help the leader answer.
Tips to make it work
- Decide whether it is the memory version or the guessing version.
- Keep rounds short, and rotate roles so everyone gets a chance.
- For large groups, split into teams of 6 to 10.
- Allow silly answers, which are part of the fun.
Picnic games for large groups
When a group gets bigger, simple team games work best:
- Relay races. Egg and spoon, sack and three-legged races are classic picnic relays.
- Tug of war. Use a proper rope, soft ground and equal-sized teams.
- Scavenger hunt. Give teams a list of things to find in the park, or photos to take.
- Capture the flag. A good option if there is a large open field. See capture the flag game ideas.
- Water balloon toss. Use soft balloons, and check that the park allows it.
- Musical picnic blankets. Like musical chairs, but with blankets that shrink as the music plays.
For a reunion-sized crowd, see family reunion games.
Lawn and yard games
These games suit a park or backyard and are popular with adults and kids alike:
- Cornhole
- Ring toss
- Bocce
- Giant checkers or giant Jenga
- Washer toss
- Frisbee or disc golf-style throwing
- Badminton or paddle ball
- Outdoor bowling with plastic pins
Check the park’s rules first. Some parks restrict glass, alcohol, or equipment that could damage the grass. For how to build and play washer toss, see the washer toss rules and how to build a set.
Quick games with no equipment
- Twenty questions
- I Spy
- Two Truths and a Lie
- Charades
- Rock paper scissors tournaments
- Cloud watching with guesses
For more of these, see our camping games guide, as most work equally well on a blanket.
Picnic games for adults
Adults often enjoy competitive games with an easy learning curve. Good choices include cornhole, bocce, picnic bingo, card games on a blanket, three-legged races and trivia. Keep any prizes light-hearted. If alcohol is involved, follow local rules and drink responsibly, and avoid competitive physical games when impaired.
Planning notes
- Bring a few small prizes or a trophy for relay winners.
- Pack extra sun protection and water.
- Choose a spot with some shade and flat ground.
- Check weather and have a backup plan. Our rainy day camp games can be adapted to a covered shelter.
FAQ
How do you play “I’m going on a picnic”? In the memory version, each player repeats a growing alphabetical list of items. In the guessing version, the leader holds a secret rule and says yes or no to each item.
What are some fun picnic games for large groups? Relays, tug of war, scavenger hunts and musical blankets work well.
What is the 10 outdoor game name? This phrasing doesn’t point to a single known game. Classic outdoor games include tag, hide and seek, capture the flag, red light green light, sack races, kickball, relay races, tug of war, duck duck goose and four square.
How is a picnic done? Pick a location, pack easy-to-eat food, bring a blanket, water and trash bags, and add a game or two. Leave the area as clean as you found it.