Cornhole is a fun backyard game that has become incredibly popular. It’s easy to learn but can be challenging to master. Whether you're playing for fun or aiming to compete, knowing the rules is essential. Cornhole has evolved from a simple lawn game to a competitive sport with official tournaments. Let’s take a look at the official cornhole rules and some fun variations to help you play like a pro!

1. The Basics: Setting Up Your Cornhole Field

Before you start playing, make sure you set up your cornhole field correctly. A proper setup ensures fair play and can influence your game strategy. Here’s what you need to know:

• Field Dimensions: 2.4-3 metres wide and 12-13.7 metres long. This allows players enough space to move comfortably.
• Distance Between Boards: 8.23 metres between the front edges of the boards. This can be shortened for casual games or beginners.
• Board Size: 60cm wide by 120cm long. For beginners, you can also play with 60cm x 90cm boards.
• Hole Diameter: 15cm, centred 23cm from the top of the board. This is the standard size for all cornhole games.
• Playing Surface: Try to play on a flat, level surface. Grass, concrete, or special mats all work well, but make sure both ends are even.

For backyard games, feel free to adjust these measurements to fit your space. Just make sure both teams play on the same type of field! Being able to play cornhole in different locations is one of the best things about the game. Learn more about setting up your cornhole game to maximise your fun and try different field layouts to keep your matches exciting.

2. Equipment: Bags and Boards

To play cornhole, you need:

• 2 Cornhole Boards: These should have a smooth surface so the bags can slide. You can paint or stain them, but keep the surface even. You can start with 1 board if playing with just 2 players.
• 8 Cornhole Bags (4 of each colour): Different colours help track scores and avoid confusion during play.

Official cornhole bags are 15cm square and weigh between 447 and 461 grams. They are usually filled with corn kernels or plastic pellets. The weight and size are carefully regulated to ensure fair play in competitions. For casual games at home, you can use any bags that are easy to throw, but using ones close to the official size will help you get better at the game.

The material of the bags can affect how the game is played. Corn-filled bags feel more traditional and make a distinctive sound, while plastic pellets last longer and don’t absorb moisture. Some players prefer a mix to get the right throwing feel. Check out different cornhole bag types to find the best match for your playing style.

3. Gameplay: How to Play Cornhole

Now that everything is set up, here’s how to play cornhole:

1. Divide into two teams (singles or doubles): In singles, each player plays alone. In doubles, teams of two compete against each other.
2. Decide which team goes first (use a bag toss to determine who starts).
3. Players take turns throwing bags towards the opposite board.
4. Throw all bags and then count the scores.
5. The team that scored in the last round throws first in the next round.
6. Continue playing until a team reaches 21 points or more.

All throws must be underhand, and players must stay behind the front of the board when throwing. Learning different throwing techniques and strategies can greatly improve your game.

4. Scoring: How to Keep Track

• Bag in the hole: 3 points (Cornhole)
• Bag on the board: 1 point (Woody)
• Bag that touches the ground: 0 points (Foul Bags)
• Cancellation scoring: The team with the higher score in a round subtracts the opponent's points from their own. Only one team scores per round.

For example, if Team A scores 5 points and Team B scores 3 points in a round, Team A gets 2 points for that round. This keeps the game strategic and competitive.

5. Scoring: How to Keep Track

For professional game play and its rules, make sure to visit the UKCL website or the website of the American Cornhole League.

6. Winning the Game

The first team to reach 21 points or more wins the game. Some casual games use the "skunk" rule, where the game ends if one team reaches 11 points while the other has 0.

7. Backyard Variations & Fun Twists

• Shorter distances for kids or beginners (try 4.5-6 metres instead of 8.23 metres).
• Play to 11 or 15 points for quicker games.
• "Bust" Rule: If you go over 21, your score resets to 13 or 15.
• Allow overhand throws for more variety.
• Add obstacles or target zones for bonus points.
• "Cornhole Golf": Set up multiple boards and keep score like golf.

Remember, the most important rule is to have fun! Discover more cornhole game variations to keep things interesting at your next backyard gathering.

Ready to start playing? Check out our selection of high-quality cornhole sets and get ready for endless fun!