How Do You Play Cornhole?
Everyone seems to play at backyard barbecues, but you’ve never joined in. Cornhole is a popular outdoor party game, and even if you’ve never played, we’ll have you tossing like a pro. So, how do you play cornhole?
Cornhole Game Setup
In each game of cornhole, there’s a standard court setup, including two targets and eight bean bags. Now, because few of us are likely to be playing in a regulation game, we’ll focus on recreational play. To get the game started, create the court (in a backyard, driveway or similar space). Set each wooden target across from the other, with the fronts of each one about 12-15 feet apart. Each side has four bags to throw during the game.
Gameplay
Cornhole can be played in either singles or doubles format, with the ultimate goal of sinking the most bags into the opponent’s target, but it’s more complicated than you’d think.
Players stand in a “pitcher’s box” to either the right or left of the target board on their side. Think of it sort of like a batter’s box in baseball. If you’re right handed, stand to the left; left handed stands to the right. You must stand behind the foul line, an imaginary line at the front of the target board, then execute with an underhand throw.
In both singles and doubles play, each team takes turns throwing until all bags have been tossed. Doubles play differs in that the the headboard player (player 1) from each side pitches all of his/her bags before the footboard player (player 2) on each side pitches. Cornhole is played in innings, which end when all bags are tossed.
Scoring
When you’re out on the lawn having fun, the score might not matter much, and that’s totally OK. But if you want to add a competitive vibe, try playing to 11 or 21. Scoring in cornhole isn’t as simple as only receiving points when you sink a shot—”almost” actually counts in this game. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Sinking the bag in the hole = 3 points
- Hitting the board (and keeping contact) = 1 point
The confusing part is using cancellation scoring. Basically, at the end of each inning, add up both team’s scores. Got it? Now take the losing team’s score and subtract it from the winner’s. The winning team has just earned that number of points. For instance, Team 1 earns six points and Team 2 earns three points, 6-3=3 points. Only the winner ultimately scores each inning. Keep at it until 11 or 21!
Get Your Game on at Zone 28
Whether you’re a cornhole aficionado or just want to give the game a try, we’ve got you covered at Zone 28. Grab a friend and stop by our Beer Parkfor a craft brew, and cornhole too! While you visit, take in the big game on our massive big screens and enjoy your favorite bar bites. We’ll see you in the zone.
