Throwing a first birthday party is all about celebrating that major milestone for your little one. But here’s the thing: we all know the adults are looking for some fun, too.
After all, they’ve been cheering on this little bundle of joy from day one! So, while the party focus is still on the birthday star, let’s add in some simple, hilarious, and yes, even a little competitive, games for everyone else.
Whether you’re looking for games that are super easy to set up, activities for the yard, or a few ideas that get the adults in on the fun with a drink in hand, you’ll find them here.
First Birthday Game Ideas for Adults
These games will keep everyone laughing, chatting, and making memories – which is exactly what a first birthday is all about.
Super Easy to Set Up
Sometimes, the easiest games are the best ones. These ideas are quick to set up, simple to play, and still bring all the laughs without turning your party into a mini circus!
1. Baby Sock Matching
What to Do: Got a bunch of baby socks lying around? Grab a pile of mismatched ones, spread them out, and let the guests race to match as many pairs as they can in 30 seconds.
Why It’s Fun: It’s harder than it sounds, trust me. Plus, there’s something about baby socks that just makes everyone smile.
2. Guess the Baby’s Weight
What to Do: Have guests write down their best guess for the baby’s weight, or if that feels a bit much, have them guess the weight of a baby toy or a bag of candy.
Why It’s Fun: People get surprisingly invested in this one, especially if there’s a little prize at stake (more on that later!).
3. Pin the Pacifier on the Baby
What to Do: Blow up a big picture of your baby or use a cartoon baby image. Blindfold the guests, give them a paper “pacifier,” and let them try to pin it on the baby’s mouth.
Why It’s Fun: Watching adults aimlessly try to find the baby’s face while blindfolded never gets old, and it’s an easy twist on a classic that everyone knows.
4. Guess the Number of Items in the Jar
What to Do: Fill a jar with small candies or baby snacks (think Cheerios or fruit puffs). Guests write down their guesses for how many are inside, and whoever’s closest gets to take the jar home.
Why It’s Fun: It’s a classic, no-fuss game that lets everyone feel like a kid again. Plus, who doesn’t love winning a jar of candy?
5. Paper Plate Baby Face Drawing
What to Do: Give each guest a paper plate and marker, then have them draw the baby’s face while holding the plate on top of their head. Most accurate (or most hilariously inaccurate) face wins!
Why It’s Fun: The results are always hilarious, and it’s super easy to set up.
Outdoor Games for a First Birthday Bash
If you’re hosting the party outside, these games are perfect for letting everyone enjoy the fresh air. Plus, these are great if you have a bit more space to work with.
6. Giant Jenga
What to Do: Set up a giant Jenga tower and let guests play throughout the party. If you want to go the extra mile, write baby-related dares or fun facts on some of the blocks.
Why It’s Fun: Giant Jenga brings the suspense, especially if the tower’s getting high and wobbly! Plus, it’s a relaxed, no-pressure game that lets guests jump in or out whenever they want.
7. Balloon Pop Race
What to Do: Tie a balloon to each guest’s ankle with a short string. The goal? Pop everyone else’s balloon while keeping yours safe! Last person standing with an unpopped balloon wins.
Why It’s Fun: It’s competitive, gets people moving, and is a surefire way to get everyone laughing as they hop around trying to avoid the “poppers.”
8. Diaper Toss Cornhole or Diaper Pong
What to Do: If you’ve got a cornhole board, use it for a baby-themed twist. Decorate some bean bags to look like diapers, then let guests toss them in to score points.
Why It’s Fun: Cornhole is a party classic, and this simple twist makes it feel right on theme.
9. Baby Obstacle Relay Race
What to Do: Set up an obstacle course with “baby-inspired” challenges, like crawling under a table, balancing a bottle on their head, or carrying a stuffed animal without dropping it.
Why It’s Fun: Adults acting like babies while racing? You can imagine the hilarity. It’s a winner for sure.
Adult-Only Games with a Toast
Let’s be honest – sometimes, adults want to join in on the party with a little drink in hand. These games are lighthearted and bring just the right amount of grown-up fun to the mix.
10. Baby Bottle Chug
What to Do: Fill baby bottles with beer or another beverage, and let adults race to finish by drinking through the bottle nipple. First to finish wins!
Why It’s Fun: It’s ridiculously challenging, and watching everyone struggle with a baby bottle brings guaranteed laughs.
11. Never Have I Ever – Parenting Edition
What to Do: Play “Never Have I Ever” with a parenting twist, like “Never have I ever fallen asleep during storytime.” If they’ve done it, they take a sip!
Why It’s Fun: Parents and non-parents alike will have some hilarious confessions to share, which is always a bonding experience.
12. Diaper Duty Drinking Game
What to Do: Pick baby-related triggers for a drink, like “baby giggles” or “someone takes a selfie with the baby.” Every time one happens, everyone takes a sip.
Why It’s Fun: It keeps everyone engaged in what’s happening with the baby and brings a little extra cheer.
Quick and Casual Birthday Games
Here are a few easygoing games that require zero stress, so guests can jump in whenever they like.
13. Guess the Baby Item
What to Do: Place a few baby items (like a teething ring or bottle) in a bag. Let guests reach in and guess what’s inside based on feel alone.
Why It’s Fun: It’s quick, simple, and you don’t need much to make it happen!
14. Balloon Toss Game
What to Do: Set up a simple tossing station with balloons and let guests try to toss them into a container from a short distance.
Why It’s Fun: It’s super low-pressure and easy for guests to play whenever they’re up for it.
15. Photo Booth with Props
What to Do: Create a DIY photo booth with baby-themed props like “Best Uncle” or “Diaper Duty Champ.” Guests can snap fun photos to take home.
Why It’s Fun: It’s perfect for memories and gives guests something fun to do between games.
Bonus Tips for a Seamless Party
Suggested Prizes for Winners
Little prizes are the best way to get everyone just a little more invested in winning! Here are a few fun, low-cost ideas:
- Mini candles
- Gift cards (coffee, online stores, etc.)
- Cute mugs or tumblers
- Mini bottles of champagne for the grown-up games
- Baby-themed items like “World’s Best Babysitter” badges
Tips for Smooth Game Transitions
To keep the energy up, here’s what I recommend:
Designate a “Game Host” to announce each game and keep things organized.
Create Game Stations for games that people can play at their own pace. It’s easy for guests to wander over and try things out.
Have Supplies Ready nearby so there’s no pause while you hunt down missing items.
Game Timing Suggestions
Knowing when to start a game is key to keeping things fun, not overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Outdoor Games First: Get guests moving and socializing outside before settling in.
Casual Games Between Events: Use Bingo or the Photo Booth as easy filler games between big activities.
Low-Key Games at the End: Wind down with casual games that don’t require everyone’s full attention.
List of Supplies Needed for Each Game
To make it easy on yourself, here’s a quick checklist:
- Baby socks (for sock matching)
- Balloons (for Balloon Pop and Toss games)
- Jenga set (giant version if possible)
- Diapers and baby bottles (for Diaper Toss and Bottle Chug)
- Small candies or snacks (for Guess the Number in the Jar)
- Paper plates and markers (for Baby Face Drawing)
Quick Clean-Up Tips
After the fun, clean-up is key to a smooth finish. Try these quick tricks:
Have Trash Bins Handy so guests can toss used items immediately.
Enlist a Few Helpers to clear game stations after each game.
Save Reusables: Set aside any markers, props, or plates that can be reused for the next party.
And there you have it – the ultimate guide to first birthday games that adults will actually enjoy! With these ideas, your party will be full of laughter, connection, and tons of unforgettable memories. Here’s to an amazing first birthday bash!