27 Epic Alternatives to Bobbing for Apples That Are Just as Fun

Ah, bobbing for apples. That classic fall game where you dunk your face into a tub of cold water, desperately trying to sink your teeth into a crisp, juicy apple. 

It’s all fun and games until you realize you’re basically swapping spit with everyone at the party. Yuck!

I’ve made it my mission to find alternatives that capture the spirit of the game without the “ick” factor. 

Here’s the thing: we can still enjoy the thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of a hard-earned apple treat without compromising our health or our dignity. 

It’s time to get creative and reimagine this beloved (yet, icky!) Halloween pastime.  Trust me, your taste buds (and your immune system) will thank you. 

Get ready to bob, spear, and savor your way through the most hygienic and hilarious autumn ever!

Direct Modifications to Traditional Apple Bobbing

Alright, so you’re not quite ready to give up on the classic apple bobbing experience, but you’re also not thrilled about the idea of dunking your face into a communal germ pool. 

Well, there’s plenty of ways to modify the traditional game to make it more hygienic without sacrificing the fun.

First up, let’s talk about the “hanging apples” method. This one’s a personal favorite of my mom’s.

You see, she went to a fall festival where they had apples dangling from strings, and she said it was so funny watching people jump and contort their bodies trying to take a bite.

Here’s how you can set it up:

1. Hanging Apples

• Objective: Be the first to successfully bite the hanging apple.
• Materials: Apples, string, and a sturdy place to hang the apples (like a tree branch or a pole).
• Setup: Tie strings around the stems (or around the center) of the apples and hang them at various heights.
• How to play: Players take turns attempting to bite the hanging apples without using their hands. The first person to successfully bite their apple wins!

Next, let’s talk about individual bobbing stations. This is a great way to maintain the traditional bobbing experience while minimizing the sharing of germs. 

Here’s how it works:

2. Individual Bobbing Stations

• Objective: Be the first to successfully grab an apple using only your mouth.
• Materials: Large bowls or buckets (one per player), water, and apples.
• Setup: Fill each bowl or bucket with water and place an equal number of apples in each.
• How to play: Each player gets their own bobbing station. On the count of three, players race to be the first to grab an apple using only their mouth.

But wait, there’s more!

If you’re not a fan of getting your face wet, you can always opt for the “apple fishing” method. 

This one’s perfect for those who prefer a more civilized approach to apple grabbing.

3. Apple Fishing

• Objective: Use chopsticks or tongs to grab as many apples as possible within a time limit.
• Materials: Large bowl or bucket, water, apples, and chopsticks or tongs (one set per player).
• Setup: Fill the bowl or bucket with water and add the apples.
• How to play: Each player gets a set of chopsticks or tongs. On the count of three, players race to grab as many apples as they can within a set time limit (e.g., 30 seconds). The player with the most apples at the end wins.

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Hanging Apples	No water involved, so you won’t end up soaked! Plus, it’s hilarious watching your friends try to chomp those dangling apples.	You might end up with a sore neck from all that stretching and biting. And let’s be real, it’s not the most dignified game out there.	Make sure those apples are hung securely, or you might end up with a face full of dirt instead of a mouthful of apple!	This one’s perfect for the adventurous types who aren’t afraid to look a little silly. Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of it.
Individual Bobbing Stations	No more sharing germs with your pals! You get your very own apple-bobbing paradise. Plus, you can customize the difficulty with smaller apples or even toss in some ice cubes for an extra challenge.	You’ll still end up with a wet face and maybe even a nose full of water if you’re not careful. And if you’re not a fan of the cold, those ice cubes might be a bit too much.	If you’ve got clumsy friends, keep an eye on those bowls – you don’t want any accidental spillage or broken dishes!	This is great for the competitive folks who don’t mind getting a bit wet. Kids will love the challenge, and germaphobes will appreciate the individual setup.
Apple Fishing	No more dunking your face in water! This one’s for the sophisticated apple grabbers out there. You can even make it a fancy affair with some classy music and a bit of apple-fishing etiquette.	It might not be as exciting as the traditional bobbing method, and you’ll need to put in a bit more effort to nab those apples with a fork.	Make sure you’ve got enough forks for everyone, and watch out for any rogue apple slices that might slip off and make a break for it!	Perfect for the more refined crowd who prefer to keep their faces dry. It’s also great for kids who might be a bit hesitant about dunking their heads in water.

Minute-to-Win-It Style Challenges with an Apple Theme

First up, let’s talk about those fast-paced, heart-pumping games that’ll have you racing against the clock. 

These minute-to-win-it style challenges are perfect for getting the party started and keeping the energy high. Trust me, I’ve seen grown adults turn into giggling, competitive messes over these games, and it’s a beautiful sight to behold.

4. Apple Stacking Contest

• Objective: Be the first to stack five apples vertically without them falling.
• Materials: Apples (at least five per player).
• Setup: Give each player their set of apples.
• How to play: On the count of three, players race to stack their apples vertically. The first player to successfully stack all five apples without them falling wins
• Tip: If you want to make it extra challenging, use different sized apples or have players stack them on a slightly uneven surface.

5. Apple-on-a-Spoon Race

• Objective: Be the first to cross the finish line while balancing an apple on a spoon.
• Materials: Apples (one per player), spoons (one per player), and a designated race course.
• Setup: Give each player an apple and a spoon. Mark a start and finish line for the race course.
• How to play: Players must balance their apple on their spoon and race from the start line to the finish line. If the apple falls off the spoon, the player must stop and put it back on before continuing. The first player to cross the finish line with their apple still on their spoon wins!
• Tip: If you want to make it more challenging, have players navigate an obstacle course while balancing their apple.

6. Candy Apple Making Relay

• Objective: Be the first team to successfully make a candy apple.
• Materials: Apples (one per team), caramel sauce, toppings (like chopped nuts or sprinkles), sticks (one per team), and a microwave or stove to melt the caramel.
• Setup: Divide players into teams. Give each team an apple, a stick, and access to the caramel sauce and toppings.
• How to play: On the count of three, the first player from each team must melt the caramel sauce (either in the microwave or on the stove). Once melted, they must dip their apple in the caramel, then roll it in the toppings. The first team to successfully create a candy apple wins!

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Apple Stacking Contest	Pros: It’s all about balance and patience—great for those who like a bit of a challenge. Plus, it’s super satisfying when you get all five apples to stay put.	Cons: Apples can be slippery, and it can get frustrating if they keep toppling over.	Things that could go wrong: You might end up with a few bruised apples, or worse, a full-on apple avalanche!	Ages: Perfect for school-aged kids and up. Great for anyone who enjoys a steady hand game or has a bit of a competitive streak.
Apple-on-a-Spoon Race	Pros: It’s a classic race with a twist, adding that extra challenge of balance. Great for livening up any gathering and getting a bit of exercise too!	Cons: It can be tricky, especially if your apple decides it’s done being on the spoon.	Things that could go wrong: Apples rolling away or getting bruised, and maybe some minor frustrations.	Ages: Kids and adults alike who love a good race and don’t mind a little balancing act. Fun for those who enjoy a laugh, especially when things get wobbly!
Candy Apple Making Relay	Pros: Delicious outcomes and a team effort make this one tasty and engaging. Plus, who doesn’t love eating their craft after?	Cons: It can get messy with all the caramel and toppings, and sometimes the caramel doesn’t stick as you hope.	Things that could go wrong: Caramel might be too hot or not melt correctly, and there could be some sticky situations to handle.	Ages: Great for teens and adults who enjoy cooking or crafting. Ideal for those who like teamwork and have a sweet tooth!

Apple-Themed Taste-Testing Games

Next up, let’s tantalize those taste buds with some apple-themed taste-testing games. These are perfect for the foodies in your group who love to savor the flavors of fall. 

I once went to blind apple cider tasting party, and it was a hit! People loved guessing the different varieties and comparing notes on their favorites.

7. Blindfolded Apple Variety Identification

• Objective: Correctly identify the most apple varieties while blindfolded.
• Materials: Various apple varieties (sliced), blindfolds, and scorecards.
• Setup: Slice the apples and arrange them on plates. Give each player a blindfold and a scorecard.
• How to play: Players take turns being blindfolded and tasting the different apple slices. They must guess the variety of each apple they taste. The player with the most correct guesses wins!

8. Apple Cider or Juice Sampling

• Objective: Taste and rate different apple ciders or juices to determine the group’s favorite.
• Materials: Various apple ciders or juices, small cups for sampling, and scorecards.
• Setup: Pour each cider or juice into labeled cups. Give each player a scorecard to rate each sample.
• How to play: Players taste each cider or juice and rate them on their scorecards based on factors like taste, aroma, and overall enjoyment. After everyone has sampled and rated each one, tally up the scores to determine the group’s favorite!

Apple Artistic Activities

But wait, there’s more! Let’s not forget about the artistic souls in your group who love to get creative.

These apple-themed art activities are perfect for letting them express their inner Picasso while enjoying some fall fun.

9. Apple Stamp Art Projects

• Objective: Create unique works of art using apple stamps and paint.
• Materials: Apples cut in half, paint, paper, and paintbrushes.
• Setup: Give each player a halved apple, a selection of paint colors, and a piece of paper.
• How to play: Players use their apple stamps and paint to create works of art on their paper. Encourage them to experiment with different techniques, like layering colors or creating patterns.
• Tip: Use a variety of apple sizes and shapes to create more interesting stamps. You can also cut the apples into different cross-sections for unique designs.

10. Apple-Themed Face Painting

• Objective: Transform players into walking works of apple-themed art.
• Materials: Face paint, paintbrushes, and reference photos of apple-themed designs.
• Setup: Set up a face painting station with all the necessary materials. Display reference photos of apple-themed designs for inspiration.
• How to play: Players take turns getting their faces painted with apple-themed designs. Encourage creativity and individuality in the designs.
• Tip: Use a mirror so players can see the progress of their face painting and provide input on the design.

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Blindfolded Apple Variety Identification	Pros: It’s a taste test with a twist! Great for foodies who pride themselves on their refined palates. Plus, it’s hilarious to hear some of the wild guesses.	Cons: Not knowing what you’re biting into can be a bit daunting, and some might not enjoy the surprise element.	Things that could go wrong: Accidental mix-ups leading to unexpected taste tests, like biting into that sneaky pear slice!	Ages: Perfect for teens and adults who love a culinary challenge. Ideal for those who think they’ve got the taste buds to prove their apple expertise.
Apple Cider or Juice Sampling	Pros: Who doesn’t love a good tasting session? It’s like being at a classy wine tasting, but with apple cider! You get to sip, savor, and then pick a favorite.	Cons: For those not into subtle taste differences, it might just seem like drinking a lot of apple juice.	Things that could go wrong: Mixing up the cups and forgetting which cider is which—total flavor confusion!	Ages: Great for all ages, especially families or friends who enjoy a laid-back, tasty competition.
Apple Stamp Art Projects	Pros: Unleash your inner artist with apples as your brush. It’s creative, a bit messy, and a lot of fun.	Cons: Paint can get everywhere, and if you’re not careful, it might turn into abstract art on your clothes.	Things that could go wrong: Apple slices slipping from hands leading to unexpected splatters and smudges.	Ages: Kids will absolutely love this, as well as any adult who’s up for some artsy fun and doesn’t mind getting a bit messy.
Apple-Themed Face Painting	Pros: It’s a fabulous way to bring some artistic flair to any event. Transform into an apple princess or a cider superhero!	Cons: If you’re not patient, sitting still for face painting might be a challenge.	Things that could go wrong: Ending up looking more like a tomato than an apple if things go sideways with the paint!	Ages: Kids and adults alike, especially those who enjoy stepping into a new character for a while.

Skill-Based Apple Games

Last but not least, let’s talk about those games that’ll put your skills to the test. These apple-themed challenges are perfect for bringing out the competitive spirit in your guests and providing hours of entertainment.

11. Apple Slingshot or Catapult Target Practice

• Objective: Hit targets using a slingshot or catapult to launch small apples or apple-shaped objects.
• Materials: Slingshots or catapults, small apples or apple-shaped objects, and targets (like baskets or bullseyes).
• Setup: Set up the targets at various distances. Give each player a slingshot or catapult and a supply of small apples or apple-shaped objects.
• How to play: Players take turns using their slingshots or catapults to launch the apples at the targets. Points are awarded based on the difficulty of the target hit. The player with the most points at the end wins!
• Tip: Use soft, foam apples or apple-shaped stress balls to avoid any potential injuries or damage to property.

12. Apple Jenga with Themed Challenge Blocks

• Objective: Play a game of Jenga with a twist – some blocks have apple-themed challenges written on them!
• Materials: Jengaset, marker, and a list of apple-themed challenges.
• Setup: Write apple-themed challenges on some of the Jenga blocks, such as “Take a bite of an apple,” “Name three apple varieties,” or “Do an apple-themed charade.”
• How to play: Play Jenga as usual, but when a player pulls a block with a challenge, they must complete the challenge before placing the block on top of the tower. If the tower falls, the game ends, and the player who caused the fall loses.
• Tip: Make sure to have a variety of challenges that cater to different skill levels and interests to keep everyone engaged.

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Apple Slingshot or Catapult Target Practice	Pros: It’s a real blast! Perfect for those who like a bit of action in their games. Plus, it’s a great way to test your aim and unleash your inner marksman.	Cons: If not careful, things can get a bit too wild, especially with real apples.	Things that could go wrong: Missed shots leading to unexpected apple smash sessions—watch out for flying fruit!	Ages: Great for older kids, teens, and adults who enjoy a good, active challenge. Especially fun for those who love outdoor games.
Apple Jenga with Themed Challenge Blocks	Pros: It’s Jenga with a fun twist! The apple-themed challenges add an extra layer of excitement and giggles to the classic game.	Cons: Balancing the challenge of answering questions or performing tasks with playing Jenga can be tricky for some.	Things that could go wrong: Getting too caught up in the challenges and toppling the tower prematurely.	Ages: Suitable for all ages, really shines with a group that loves games with a creative twist. Perfect for families or friends who enjoy a bit of thinking on their feet.

Mess-Free Apple Group Activities for Halloween

Are you ready to have some apple-themed fun without the sticky, drippy mess?

Well, buckle up, buttercup, because I’ve got a ton of ideas that’ll keep you and your crew entertained all night long.

13. Team Apple Stacking Challenge

• Objective: Build the tallest tower of apples within a set time limit.
• Materials: Apples (lots of ’em!), a flat surface for stacking.
• Setup: Divide your group into teams, give each team an equal number of apples, and set a time limit for the challenge.
• How to Play: When the clock starts, each team must stack their apples as high as they can. The team with the tallest tower when time runs out wins!

14. Apple Relay Race

• Objective: Be the first team to collect all their apples from the basket at the end of the race course.
• Materials: Apples (15 to 20 per team), baskets or buckets, a designated race course.
• Setup: Divide your group into teams, place a basket of apples at one end of the race course for each team, and have each team line up at the opposite end of the course.
• How to Play: On “go,” the first player from each team must run to their basket, grab an apple, and race back to tag the next player in line. The first team to collect all their apples wins!

15. Apple Scavenger Hunt

• Objective: Find all the hidden apples or apple-shaped items using a list of clues or riddles.
• Materials: Paper apples or apple-shaped items, a list of clues or riddles, prizes for the winners.
• Setup: Before the party, hide the paper apples or apple-shaped items around the party area and create a list of clues or riddles that will lead players to the hidden apples.
• How to Play: Give each player or team a list of the clues. The first player or team to find all the hidden apples wins a prize!

16. Apple Pictionary

• Objective: Guess the most apple-themed words or phrases based on your teammate’s drawings.
• Materials: Whiteboard or large paper pad, markers, a list of apple-themed words or phrases.
• Setup: Divide your group into teams and give each team a whiteboard or large paper pad and markers.
• How to Play: One player from each team must choose a word or phrase from the list and attempt to draw it while their teammates guess. The team with the most correct guesses wins!

Here’s a list of words you can use to get you started if you want:

1. Orchard Breeze
2. Apple Cider
3. Granny Smith Green
4. Caramel Apple
5. Autumn Harvest
6. Apple Pie Order
7. Bobbing for Apples
8. Apple Crisp
9. Cinnamon Spice
10. Apple Core
11. Apple of My Eye
12. Harvest Moon
13. Apple Butter
14. Apple Picking
15. Apple Tart
16. Gala Event
17. Apple Blossom
18. Spiced Apples
19. Johnny Appleseed
20. Apple Turnover

17. Apple Sticker Tag

• Objective: Stick the most apple stickers on other players without getting too many on yourself.
• Materials: Apple-themed stickers.
• Setup: Give each player a sheet of apple stickers.
• How to Play: Players must try to stick their apple stickers on the other players without getting stickers stuck on themselves. The player with the most stickers on others at the end of the game wins!

18. Pass the Apple Challenge

• Objective: Transfer an apple under your chin to the next person in line without using your hands.
• Materials: Apples (one per team).
• Setup: Form two lines of players.
• How to Play: The first player on each team tucks an apple under their chin and tries to pass it to the next player without using their hands. If the apple drops, they must start over. The first team to successfully pass the apple to the end wins.

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Team Apple Stacking Challenge	It’s like Jenga, but with apples! Plus, it’s a great way to practice teamwork and communication.	If your tower falls, you might end up with a bunch of bruised apples.	Watch out for wobbly tables or uneven surfaces that could make your tower topple.	Kids and adults who love a good challenge and don’t mind a little friendly competition.
Apple Relay Race	It’s a fast-paced, high-energy game that’s perfect for getting everyone up and moving.	If you’re not careful, you might end up with a few dropped apples along the way.	Make sure you have plenty of space for your race course, and watch out for any tripping hazards.	Kids and adults who love to run and compete, and don’t mind getting a little silly in the process.
Apple Scavenger Hunt	It’s a great way to explore your party area and get everyone working together to solve clues.	If you make the clues too hard, you might end up with some frustrated hunters on your hands.	Make sure you keep track of where you’ve hidden all the apples, so you don’t forget any at the end of the game.	Kids and adults who love a good puzzle and don’t mind a little bit of detective work.
Apple Pictionary	It’s a classic party game with an apple-themed twist that’s sure to get everyone laughing.	If you’re not much of an artist, you might struggle with some of the more challenging words or phrases.	Make sure you have plenty of paper and markers on hand, and be prepared for some creative interpretations of your apple-themed words.	Kids and adults who love to draw and guess, and don’t mind a little bit of good-natured teasing.
Apple Sticker Tag	It’s a silly, high-energy game that’s perfect for burning off some extra energy.	If you’re not quick on your feet, you might end up covered in stickers by the end of the game.	Make sure you have plenty of stickers for everyone, and be prepared for some friendly trash talk along the way.	Kids and adults who love a good game of tag and don’t mind getting a little bit sticky in the process.
Pass the Apple Challenge	It’s a hilarious way to get everyone laughing and working together. Plus, it’s a great icebreaker for folks who might not know each other well.	If you’re not a fan of close contact or getting a bit messy, this might not be the game for you. And if you’ve got a particularly clumsy group, there might be a lot of dropped apples!	Make sure you’ve got enough space for people to move around without bumping into each other. And if you’re playing with kids, you might want to have a few extra apples on hand in case of any overzealous passing attempts!	This one’s perfect for groups of all ages who don’t mind a bit of silly fun. It’s great for team-building and getting everyone in a playful mood

Pumpkin-Based Games

It’s time to think outside the apple box! While apples are undoubtedly the star of the season, there’s so many other festive fall activities that’ll make your heart skip a beat. 

First up, let’s give a big round of applause for the almighty pumpkin! These orange beauties aren’t just for carving and decorating – they make for some seriously fun games too.

I went to a fall festival where they had a pumpkin bowling lane set up, and let me tell you, it was hilarious watching people try to roll those awkwardly-shaped gourds down the lane!

19. Pumpkin Bowling

• Objective: Knock down as many pins as possible using a pumpkin as your bowling ball.
• Materials: Small to medium-sized pumpkins (one per player), plastic bowling pins or empty plastic bottles, and a flat, open space for your bowling lane.
• Setup: Set up your bowling lane by placing the pins or bottles at the end of the designated space. Give each player their pumpkin bowling ball.
• How to play: Players take turns rolling their pumpkin towards the pins, trying to knock down as many as possible. Keep score just like in regular bowling, and the player with the highest score at the end wins!
• Tip: If you’re playing with kids, use lighter pumpkins or substitute with mini pumpkins to make it easier for them to roll.

20. Pumpkin Ring Toss

• Objective: Land as many rings as possible on the pumpkin stems.
• Materials: Several small to medium-sized pumpkins with stems, hula hoops or rings (you can make your own by cutting the center out of paper plates).
• Setup: Place the pumpkins at varying distances from the throwing line. Give each player their set of rings.
• How to play: Players take turns tossing their rings, aiming to land them on the pumpkin stems. Each ring that successfully lands on a stem earns the player a point. The player with the most points at the end wins.

21. Pumpkin Painting or Carving Contests

• Objective: Create the most creative, spooky, or beautiful pumpkin design.
• Materials: Pumpkins (one per player or team), painting supplies (paints, brushes, etc.) or carving tools (knives, scoops, etc.), and a table or flat surface to work on.
• Setup: Give each player or team their pumpkin and access to the painting or carving supplies.
• How to play: Set a time limit for the contest (e.g., 30 minutes for painting, 1 hour for carving). Players or teams must create their pumpkin designs within the allotted time. When time’s up, have everyone vote on their favorite designs in different categories (e.g., most creative, spookiest, best overall).

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Pumpkin Bowling	Pros: Who knew bowling with pumpkins could be so much fun? It’s a hilarious twist on traditional bowling, great for all ages.	Cons: Pumpkins are not perfectly round, so they can roll in unexpected directions (watch your toes!).	Things that could go wrong: A pumpkin might split if it hits the pins too hard—pumpkin guts alert!	Ages: Anyone who can lift a pumpkin. Perfect for family gatherings or parties where everyone wants to get in on the action.
Pumpkin Ring Toss	Pros: Simple yet challenging, this game tests your aim and adds a festive touch to any event. It’s quick to set up and play.	Cons: Windy days could send your rings flying in the wrong direction.	Things that could go wrong: Missing the stems and finding rings all over the place.	Ages: Especially great for younger kids with closer targets, but adults can turn it into a competitive sport too.
Pumpkin Painting or Carving Contests	Pros: Unleash your creativity with either paint or knives. It’s a great way to show off artistic skills and get into the Halloween spirit.	Cons: Carving can be messy and a bit risky with sharp tools involved.	Things that could go wrong: Accidental pumpkin mishaps, like a carving gone wrong or paint spills.	Ages: Kids and adults alike, especially those who love arts and crafts. Families can enjoy a day of artistic rivalry with a seasonal twist.

Seasonal Relays and Races

Next up, let’s get those hearts pumping with some seasonal relays and races!

These activities are perfect for getting everyone up and moving, and they’re guaranteed to provide plenty of laughs along the way.

22. Leaf Pile Jumping Contest

• Objective: Create the biggest splash of leaves by jumping into a pile.
• Materials: A large pile of leaves (the bigger, the better!), a rake, and a measuring tape.
• Setup: Rake the leaves into a large pile. Use the measuring tape to mark a starting line a few feet away from the pile.
• How to play: Players take turns running and jumping into the leaf pile, trying to create the biggest splash of leaves. Measure the distance the leaves travel from the pile’s edge to determine the winner.

23. Scarecrow Dress-Up Relay

• Objective: Be the first team to fully dress their “scarecrow” player.
• Materials: Scarecrow clothing items (flannel shirts, overalls, straw hats, etc.), hay or straw for stuffing, and a timer.
• Setup: Divide players into teams. Place the scarecrow clothing items and stuffing materials in a pile at one end of the playing area. Have each team choose a player to be their “scarecrow.”
• How to play: On “go,” the first player from each team races to the pile, grabs a clothing item, and races back to dress their scarecrow. The next player does the same, and so on until the scarecrow is fully dressed. The first team to complete their scarecrow wins!

24. Pumpkin Seed Spitting Contest

• Objective: Spit a pumpkin seed the farthest distance.
• Materials: Pumpkin seeds (one per player), a measuring tape, and a designated spitting area.
• Setup: Give each player a pumpkin seed. Mark a starting line for the spitting area.
• How to play: Players take turns placing their pumpkin seed in their mouth and spitting it as far as they can. Measure the distance from the starting line to where each seed lands. The player whose seed travels the farthest wins.

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Leaf Pile Jumping Contest	Pros: It’s a blast from the past! Nothing beats the thrill of diving into a giant pile of leaves. Plus, it’s a perfect photo op.	Cons: Leaf pile prep can be a bit of a workout, and there’s always cleanup afterward.	Things that could go wrong: Hidden sticks or debris could lead to a less-than-soft landing. Always check the pile first!	Ages: Kids of all ages and adults who are young at heart. Ideal for anyone who loves a bit of nostalgia and doesn’t mind getting a little messy.
Scarecrow Dress-Up Relay	Pros: This game is both creative and hilarious. Watching your friends race to stuff and dress up a human-sized scarecrow is guaranteed to bring laughs.	Cons: It can get chaotic, and hay can be itchy—make sure everyone’s okay with getting a bit scratchy.	Things that could go wrong: Scarecrow outfits might fall apart during the race if not secured well.	Ages: Great for groups, families, or teams who enjoy a fast-paced, hands-on challenge. Especially fun for those who like teamwork.
Pumpkin Seed Spitting Contest	Pros: It’s simple, silly, and surprisingly competitive. Find out who can channel their inner spitfire champion!	Cons: Not for the germ-conscious, and there’s definitely an ick factor to consider.	Things that could go wrong: Wayward seeds might not land where you expect—watch where you step!	Ages: Teens and adults who don’t mind a little friendly competition and are up for a laugh. Ideal for casual outdoor gatherings.

Autumn-Themed Scavenger Hunts

Who doesn’t love a good scavenger hunt? These autumn-themed hunts are perfect for exploring the great outdoors and appreciating how amazing a season fall is.

I remember going on a fall scavenger hunt with my family as a kid, and it was so much fun searching for all the different items on our list!

25. Nature Scavenger Hunt

• Objective: Find as many items on the scavenger hunt list as possible within the time limit.
• Materials: Scavenger hunt lists (one per player or team), pencils or pens, and a timer.
• Setup: Create a list of fall-themed items for players to find, such as a red leaf, an acorn, a pinecone, a feather, etc. Set a time limit for the hunt (e.g., 30 minutes).
• How to play: Give each player or team a scavenger hunt list and a pencil. On “go,” players must search for the items on their list, checking them off as they find them – and taking pics with the cell phones as proof! The player or team with the most items found within the time limit wins!

26. Clue-Based Scavenger Hunt

• Objective: Follow the clues to find a hidden fall-themed prize.
• Materials: Clues (one set per team), a fall-themed prize (e.g., a basket of autumn goodies), and a designated playing area.
• Setup: Create a series of clues that lead players to different locations within the playing area, ultimately leading to the hidden prize. Hide the prize and place the clues in their corresponding locations.
• How to play: Divide players into teams and give each team their first clue. Teams must work together to solve the clues and navigate to the different locations. The first team to find the hidden prize wins!

27. Pumpkin Patch Scavenger Hunt

• Objective: The goal is to collect pumpkins and items from a list you’re given at the start. Whoever ticks off all the items first, or the most items by the end, wins a prize!
• Materials: A list of specific pumpkins and farming items to find (think colors, sizes, and special marks), A map of the pumpkin patch (if it’s a big one), Prizes for the winners, a whistle to gather everyone together again once the scavenger hunt time has run out
• Setup: Before the hunt, scout the pumpkin patch and pick out various items and pumpkins that fit the bill. Mark some of them with a little sticker or a non-damaging mark if you’re feeling extra sneaky. Hand out the lists, maps, and any rules when the players arrive.
• Gameplay: Give everyone a set time to hunt around. They’ll need to find as many items on the list as possible. Once time’s up, everyone gathers to check who’s got the most or specific items.

What’s Up	Cool Stuff	Not So Cool Stuff	Just a Heads Up	Who’s Gonna Love It?
Nature Scavenger Hunt	Pros: It’s a great way to get everyone outside, moving, and observing the details of nature. Perfect for nature lovers and explorers at heart.	Cons: Depending on where you are, some items might be hard to find, which can be a bit frustrating for the less patient hunters.	Things that could go wrong: Weather can be unpredictable in fall—be prepared for a sudden rain or cold snap!	Ages: Ideal for families with kids, school groups, or anyone who enjoys a casual hike with a purpose.
Clue-Based Scavenger Hunt	Pros: Adds a brain-teasing element to the physical hunt, with clues and puzzles that make you think. Great for those who like a bit of mystery with their activity.	Cons: Creating clues that are just the right level of challenging can be tough, and if they’re too hard, it might stall the game.	Things that could go wrong: Teams might get a little too competitive, or clues could get lost or overlooked.	Ages: Perfect for older kids, teens, and adults who enjoy puzzles and teamwork challenges.
Pumpkin Patch Scavenger Hunt	Pros: What’s not to love about searching for treasures in a pumpkin patch? It’s festive, fun, and you get to take home a pumpkin!	Cons: You might not have access to a pumpkin patch. Large pumpkin patches can be overwhelming, and it can be a challenge to ensure everyone finds something.	Things that could go wrong: Little kids could be easily frustrated by the game.	Ages: Great for all ages, especially families and friends who want a festive outing that’s a bit out of the ordinary.

Want More?

If you want a few more options for fun fall or Halloween games and activities to REALLY get your season jumpin’, check out: 23 Must Try Halloween Minute to Win It Games for Epic Fall Fun

Let’s Wrap Up

So there you have it. If bobbing for apples is “no bueno” for you and your get-togethers, there’s PLENTY of games and activities you can do to replace it.

Just pick one (or maybe several) and enjoy!