How to Play Cornhole

By Alana S. and Georgia S.  |  Feb 2026

Ever wondered why everyone’s tossing bean bags around at the BBQ? Welcome to the world of cornhole — a classic backyard game that’s easy to learn, surprisingly competitive, and fun for all ages.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from setup and scoring to tips that make the game more enjoyable for kids and adults alike.

If you’re looking to play at home, you can explore our cornhole games collection or browse our wider range of giant outdoor games.

How to Play Cornhole

The Objective

The aim of cornhole is simple: toss your bean bags into the hole on the opposite board. Bags that land on the board score points too, but getting them through the hole is what really counts.

Cornhole Boards

You’ll need two boards, each with a single hole near the top end. Standard cornhole boards measure:

• 24 inches wide
• 48 inches long
• Hole centred 9 inches from the top

What You’ll Need

Cornhole Bags

A full game uses eight bags in total:

• Two colours or designs
• Four bags per team
• Standard size: 6 inches x 6 inches

Bags are traditionally filled with corn kernels, though plastic pellet fills are common and handle weather better.

Setting Up the Game

Board Placement

Place the boards on a flat surface, facing each other.

• Standard distance is 27 feet for adults
• For kids or beginners, placing the boards closer makes the game far more enjoyable

Teams

Cornhole is usually played in teams of two. Each team stands beside one board and throws towards the opposite board.

Scoring Rules

Bag in the Hole

3 points for each bag that goes cleanly through the hole. A bag that is half in and half out does not score.

Bag on the Board

1 point for each bag that lands and stays on the board.

• Bags that bounce or slide up from the ground do not count
• Bags touching the ground and the board at the same time do not count

Cancellation Scoring

Only one team scores per round. Subtract the lower score from the higher score to determine the points awarded.

Example: If one team scores 5 and the other scores 3, the higher-scoring team earns 2 points.

Interfering Bags

If a bag knocks another bag into or off the board, the final position is what matters.

Important: If a bag touches the ground at any point, it does not score — even if it later ends up on the board or in the hole.

The first team to reach exactly 21 points wins.

Gameplay Basics

Starting the Game

Choose which team goes first. A coin toss or rock-paper-scissors works fine.

Tossing the Bags

Teams alternate throws, one bag at a time, until all eight bags have been thrown. Aim for the hole, but landing on the board still scores.

Scoring the Round

Once all bags are thrown, tally the points using cancellation scoring. The maximum possible score in a single round is 12 points, though this is rare.

Switching Sides

After each round, players switch ends so everyone throws from both sides.

Winning the Game

Games are played to exactly 21 points. If a team goes over 21, their score drops back to 15.

If you want a shorter refresher or a simple breakdown, you can also read our original guide here: How to Play Cornhole.

Extra Rules and Helpful Tips

• Players should stand on either side of their own board while throwing
• Opponents stand at the opposite board
• Underarm throws work best and keep the game controlled

Tips for Better Throws

Aim for a Soft Arc

A gentle arc helps the bag land and stay on the board rather than sliding off.

Foot Position

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and step forward with the foot opposite your throwing arm.

Focus on the Hole

Keep your eyes on the hole and throw smoothly. Consistency beats throwing harder.

Fun Variations

• Shorter games: first team to 11 wins
• Longer distance: move boards further apart for experienced players
• House rules: adjust scoring to suit younger kids or casual play

Wrap-Up

Cornhole is easy to pick up, fun for mixed ages, and works just as well at family gatherings as it does at parties and picnics.

If you enjoy cornhole, you’ll also find plenty of classic favourites in our giant outdoor games collection.

Ready to play? Explore our cornhole games here.