7 outdoor games in the dark for night-time fun

glow-in-the-dark chalk is a fun outdoor game

Nighttime doesn’t necessarily mean bedtime for the kids just yet (sorry parents, some nights it’s when the most fun starts!). Long, cool nights and family get togethers call for exciting outdoor games in the dark for the kids to play, so if you’ve got a few extra flashlights lying in the garden shed, these games are perfect!

1. Flashlight tag

As seasons change, bedtime can be more fluid – so why not play tag after dark? Flashlight tag is like the classic game of tag, except with a dark twist (literally). The rules of flashlight tag can differ, but like classic tag, one person is “it” but has to spot other players hiding in the dark with a flashlight.

2. Ghost in the graveyard

This time, we’ve got the whole group after a single ghost. This is a perfect game for three or more players, spacious areas and the outdoors. For those first-timers, here’s a simple lowdown of the game:

Beforehand, allocate a certain area as a ‘safe zone’ and choose one child to play the special role of ghost. Meanwhile, the other players must count to 30-50 seconds, while the ghost hides somewhere. Once everyone is finished counting, the aim of the game now is to find the hidden ghost. The first to find the ghost is safe, but must shout “ghost in the graveyard”, and all other players have to run to the ‘safe zone’ before getting tagged by the ghost! The first to be tagged will play ghost in the next round. Add a twist to this night game with some flashlights, and only the ghost has no flashlight!

3. Flashlight limbo

Blast some of the best tunes, and chant “how low can you go?”. You’ve got two people creating a steady beam of light by holding flashlights and viola! Limbo in the dark.

4. Glow-in-the-dark chalk (pictured at top) 

Good ol’ chalk is responsible for the classic games of hopscotch, four square, chalk maze, or just for those wholesome, fun doodles on concrete. Luckily, creating glow-in-the-dark chalk only requires three ingredients! Add a glowing twist to your favourite classic chalk games and get the best of both creativity and play.

What you’ll need:

  • 1 cup of Plaster of Paris, or any dry mix moulding material. 
  • 1 tbsp of glow-in-the-dark paint. Alternatively, fluorescent paint will do.
  • 3/4 cup of warm water.
  • Ice cube trays or silicon moulds.

Method: 

  1. Mix the paint and water together. Mix well! Make sure the paint has dissolved nicely into the water.
  2. Add the dry mix. Again, mix well until combined.
  3. Spoon different colours and mixtures into your moulding trays. Pack tightly for better shape and consistency.
  4. Leave to dry for 10-12 hours, or until your chalk has set. You can also pop them into the freezer for 10 minutes before play (this helps the chalk pop out of their moulds more easily).
  5. Enjoy your new chalk with some outdoor tic-tac-toe or hopscotch in the dark!

Check out the full post by jeweledrose here!

5. Shadow play

For the oldies and current youngins alike, shadows have always been the epitome of playtime. Traditionally, you could cast different shadows with flashlights or outdoor lights. But for more outdoor fun, hang up a white sheet between fences or trees. Have a source of light ready while the kiddos make shadows and shapes against it! Giant dog-head shadows FTW.

6. Scavenger hunt

Head to your nearest dollar store and grab a bunch of glow-in-the-dark items (balls, glow sticks, feathers). Alternatively, you could grab fillable plastic/clear Easter eggs and fill them with tiny LED lights for an Easter-esque hunt! With all your items ready in the dark, hide them in different locations. With flashlights, the kids can hunt away … and once all items are found, the one with the most items wins! 

7. Living in the spotlight

Okay, this game is perfect for all ages – and my personal favourite. This game can act as a starting game, or for a fun and silly time. All players must stand in a circle, with a single player in the middle acting as the ‘pointer’. Yes, the pointer will ‘point’ at who will be under the spotlight with their flashlight. Once under the spotlight, you must immediately tell a joke, dance, sing or  tell a story.

Alternatively, the person may start a story, and the next player chosen under the spotlight must continue the make-believe story. For fun, record or take videos and replay the next day or after the game for a cheeky laugh!

More activities with kids from tots to teens:

The Rainy Day Activities Our Parent Community Always Turn To

Heuristic Play Idea: DIY Treasure Basket

Toddler Bucket List

Scroll to Top