The Best Family Games for Bank Holidays & BBQs
When the sun comes out and the scent of sizzling sausages fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned British Bank Holiday BBQ. Whether it’s a garden party with the neighbours, a picnic in the park, or a laid-back afternoon with family, these long weekends are made for making memories. But if you’re hosting (or attending) with little ones in tow, you’ll know the importance of keeping children happily entertained while the grown-ups chat and the grill gets going.
To help you plan a stress-free, fun-filled Bank Holiday, we’ve rounded up the best family games and outdoor toys—perfect for National BBQ Week and beyond. These picks are easy to learn, great for groups, and guaranteed to bring big smiles, whether you’re 5 or 55!
🎉 Garden Games That Get Everyone Involved
When it comes to Bank Holiday entertainment, simple games often bring the most joy. These classic garden activities are just the thing for family-friendly fun.
Catch, Chase & Giggles Galore
- Flying Helicopter – This rubber band powered toy is launched into the air and spins gently back down. It’s perfect for children to race after, and it never fails to bring out a few squeals of delight!
- Light Up Jump Rocket – Stomp, launch, and watch it soar! With a colourful glow, this rocket is brilliant fun as the sun begins to set. It’s a great way to mix energetic play with a dash of science.
- Unicorn Popper – A magical twist on traditional shooters! This unicorn can launch soft foam balls up to 6 metres—plenty of giggles and gentle competitive fun.
- Bow and Arrows – Little archers will love testing their aim with our safe and colourful set. It’s easy enough for children to use, but grown-ups often can’t resist having a go too!
- Brookite Classic Bow Tail Kite – Kites are a timeless outdoor treat. This classic version soars beautifully and looks stunning in the sky—a calming activity that’s also wonderfully nostalgic.
🧺 Tip: Pop these toys in a picnic basket or a toy tub near the garden seating area so children can dip in and out of games throughout the day.
🌿 Make Your Garden a Mini Adventure Playground
With a few well-chosen toys, your back garden can become the ultimate Bank Holiday destination—no travel required!
Set the Scene for Playful Imagination
- Teepee Tent – A shaded hideout, reading nook, or the base for a top-secret club—the teepee tent is a versatile favourite that works beautifully for open-ended play.
- Giant Chalks Set – Let their creativity loose on patios, fences, and even tree trunks! From hopscotch to garden art, these chunky chalks are mess-free fun with endless possibilities.
- Double Water Slider – Cool down and race side-by-side with this epic water slide. It’s ideal for siblings or friends on hot afternoons—just add water and laughter!
- Knot Skills Kit – A quirky and surprisingly addictive challenge! This kit teaches real knot-tying techniques and can keep older children (and curious adults) absorbed for ages.
Browse more ideas in our Garden Toys & Games collection →
🚗 Add a Little Zoom to the BBQ Zone
Some children just love to move—and let’s be honest, it’s hard to resist joining in when wheels are involved.
Ride-On Fun for All Ages
- Didicar – No pedals, no batteries—just wiggle and go! The Didicar is a brilliant way for children to zoom around the patio, driveway, or garden path. It’s quiet, safe, and incredibly satisfying to steer.
- Ride on Fire Truck – For little heroes in training! This bright red ride-on has lovely styling and is perfect for role play and speedy garden adventures.
- 2 in 1 Bike – Designed to grow with your child, this clever convertible bike starts as a balance bike and transforms into a pedal bike. A great long-term investment for confident riders.
Discover more in our Ride On Toys range →
🧸 Play BBQ for the Little Ones
Sometimes, children just want to do exactly what the adults are doing. That’s where role-play toys really shine!
Imaginative Play While the Grill Gets Going
- Barbeque Play Set – While the grown-ups flip burgers on the real BBQ, children can grill their own kebabs, sausages, and more with this brilliant wooden set. A lovely way to include them in the action while encouraging imaginative play.
🍔 Did you know? National BBQ Week (6th May – 1st June) is a great excuse to plan a garden get-together and make the most of the longer evenings. Don’t forget to stock up on outdoor toys to keep little ones entertained from lunch ’til sundown!
💡 Easy Group Games Everyone Will Love
If you’re looking for toys and games the whole family can enjoy—without needing hours of setup—try these quick wins:
No-Fuss, Big-Fun Activities
- WhipFlash Light-Up Remote Control Buggy – Fast, flashy, and incredibly fun to race around the garden path. Great for informal time trials or simply marvelling at its flashing lights.
- Group Skittles or Ring Toss – Set up some makeshift targets using garden toys (even empty bottles will do) and let everyone have a go. These games are brilliant for building hand-eye coordination and don’t require any special equipment.
- Treasure Hunt with a Twist – Hide small outdoor toys (think foam balls, chalks, or mini prizes) and hand out clues or riddles. It’s fun, active, and can be adapted for all ages.
- Bow and Arrows Target Challenge – Draw simple target zones on the grass with chalk or use buckets at different distances—everyone gets a turn, and points mean prizes!
🌞 A Few More Handy Tips for a Smooth Garden Party
- Have a shaded play area – Whether it’s a pop-up tent, parasol, or tree, give children somewhere cool to sit and recharge.
- Keep hydration fun – Set up a drink station with colourful cups and reusable straws to encourage kids to stay hydrated while playing.
- Create a toy rotation – Introduce new toys in stages throughout the day to keep excitement levels high without overwhelming them.
Ready to Play?
With some planning and the right mix of toys, your Bank Holiday BBQ can be fun for everyone. From active games to imaginative role play, our hand-picked outdoor toys are designed to keep children entertained, engaged, and smiling—all day long.
💚 Explore all our Outdoor Toys and get garden-ready →