There’s nothing like BBQ season during the summer’s long weekends: sunny days, good food, and even better company. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, relaxing on the terrasse, or staying up late under the stars, the right board game can make these moments even more memorable. Here’s a curated list of games to fit every vibe this summer.
Garden Rush
Age: 10+ / Players: 2 / Duration: 30-45 minutes
A clever, tactical game for two, in Garden Rush, plant vegetables in your garden in precise configurations. Use tools to make your task easier or your opponent’s more difficult and be the quickest to harvest to win the game!
Perfect for: Two players who want a quick challenge before the burgers are ready.
Fast, lively, and easy to set up, Garden Rush is ideal for small gatherings or couples looking for a light, strategic duel.
Happy Mochi
Age: 8+ / Players: 2-6 / Duration: 15-30 minutes
In Happy Mochi, you will have to discard your cards, but without rearranging them in your hand, nor combining cards that are not next to each other.
Perfect for: The entire family.
With its colorful, whimsical design and easy rules, Happy Mochi brings all generations together, from kids to grandparents. It’s a sweet treat that matches the joyful, festive mood of a sunny day.
Love Letter
Age: 10+ / Players: 2-6 / Duration: 15-30 minutes
Carefully use a cast of characters in the castle to carry your message of love to the Princess, while keeping other player’s letters away. Successfully carry your letter to her before your opponent’s catch you in order to obtain her affection and win her heart in this game of risk, deduction, and luck.
Perfect for: Passing the time while waiting for the food.
Simple, compact, and full of clever moves, Love Letter is the go-to choice for filling short gaps. Expect quick rounds, lots of laughs, and the occasional sneaky betrayal!
Pergola
Age: 10+ / Players: 1-4 / Duration: 45-60 minutes
In Pergola you take on the roles of gardeners committed to planting a variety plants and thus attracting various insects to your gardens. Every decision you make will influence the look of your little corner of paradise; so choose what plants you prefer to shape your perfect garden! Choose tools and perform actions. Plant flowers, attract insects, collect honey, and hang decorations. Create the most beautiful garden and win!
Perfect for: Winding down in the evening.
After a big meal, Pergola sets the perfect tone: calming, thoughtful, and beautiful. It’s a great way to let the evening stretch out peacefully as the sun sets.
Carcassonne
Age: 7+ / Players: 2-5 / Duration: 45-60 minutes
With its simple rules (place a tile, place a meeple, score points), beautifully illustrated tiles, and iconic components, this modern classic should be part of everyone’s collection.
Perfect for: Chill evenings on the terrasse.
The classic tile-laying game shines when played outdoors, letting you build medieval landscapes while sipping something cool. No rush, no pressure—just good, gentle competition.
Dixit
Age: 8+ / Players: 3-8 / Duration: 30-45 minutes
Dixit is a classic, simple, lighthearted game of storytelling and guesswork where your imagination unlocks the tale.
Perfect for: Creative, relaxed afternoons.
Dixit sparks storytelling and laughter with its dreamy artwork and open-ended play. There’s no right or wrong here—just imagination, conversation, and shared moments.
Piles!
Age: 8+ / Players: 2-8 / Duration: <15 minutes
A fast-paced free-for-all with no turns and no time to waste. Don’t fold under pressure. Only the best with the mess will win this race.
Perfect for: Wild, crazy fun.
If your group loves chaotic energy and lots of shouting and laughter, Piles! is the game to throw into the mix. Perfect for when the party gets lively and no one wants to take anything too seriously.
That Sound Game
Age: 14+ / Players: 4+ / Duration: 30-45 minutes
That Sound Game is a fast paced, interactive and very noisy party game. The goal is to get your team to guess as many answers on the category cards as they can in a minute. Use any combination of sounds and movements, but your hands must be behind your back.
Perfect for: Silly late-night parties.
When the night is deep and the stars are out, That Sound Game turns up the hilarity. Expect to make ridiculous noises, hilarious guesses, and create memories you’ll be laughing about all summer.
Keep a little “game basket” ready during BBQs and long weekends. Toss a few of these games in the basket, and you’ll always have the perfect activity ready to match the moment—whether you’re looking for quick fun, a peaceful moment to wind down, or all-out silliness.
Liked these games? Find out where you can find them, here.
