This Water Balloon Piñata game is the perfect summertime activity. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, offering lots of laughs and a splash of cool relief on a hot day.

When it’s hot outside, I like to find fun activities for the kids that encourage them to play outside while staying cool like this fun Toss the Water Game, Pass the Water Game, and this fun Firefighter Water Relay Race.

Supplies You’ll Need

Water balloons – the self-sealing water balloons are an easy alternative to filling water balloons individually.
rope or clothesline
plastic bat or stick

Instructions

Step One: Fill

Fill the balloons with water and tie them securely.

Step Two: Hang the Balloons

Tie them around a clothesline or rope so they dangle just above head height.

Step Three: Play

Take turns with a plastic bat trying to pop the balloons—blindfold optional for an extra challenge

Have fun as water splashes down with each successful hit.

Keep going until every balloon has been popped. It’s the best outdoor water game for cooling off and enjoying summer fun.

Expert Tips

Hanging the Balloons: Tie the balloon directly to the rope or clothesline. I know from experience. I first tried using curling ribbon, which broke immediately, then I used rope, which was fine, but an unnecessary step. I finally tied the balloon directly to the rope and found that it was strong enough to hold all by itself.

Type of Balloons: I discovered that balloons specifically designed as water balloons are the best choice for this activity. Initially, I used latex balloons, which are much stronger and more difficult to pop than water balloons. The advantage of using latex balloons is that the kids had to put in more effort to pop them. However, the downside was that these balloons were nearly impossible to pop. Most of them would simply fly off the clothesline without ever bursting.

Variations

Blindfold Bash: Blindfold players to make it extra challenging

Sprinkler Piñata: Place a sprinkler near the balloons for an extra fun way to cool off

Slip and Slide Water Balloon Piñata: Kick things up a notch by placing a tarp under the balloons. The kids will have fun trying to keep their balance on the wet tarp while aiming for the balloons.

FAQ’s

How Many Balloons Should I Use?

Fill five to ten per child so they each have an equal amount of splashing fun.

What Else Can I Use Besides a Plastic Bat?

You can use a broom end, a piñata stick, or a sturdy stick from the yard.

How Do I Make Cleanup Easy?

Set a blanket down under the balloons for easy balloon cleanup. You can take it up a notch by also using a tarp to make it a slip and slide plus piñata activity.

More Summer Games to Play

wet sponge dodge ball water game for kids, teens and adults — Wet Sponge Dodgeball Game

Bucket Guard Water Balloon Game — Bucket Guard Game

back to back water balloon dash — Back-to-Back Water Balloon Dash Game

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