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Clothespin Wars: A High-Energy Game for Youth Groups, Camps, and Parties

Looking for a fast-paced, no-prep game that gets everyone moving and laughing? Clothespin Wars is the perfect mix of strategy, speed, and silliness. It’s easy to run, thrilling to play, and super fun to watch.This game is a hit at youth nights, camps, and even family gatherings. Bonus: It’s easy to separate by age or gender for even more chaotic fun.

Author

Danny Ortiz
April 04, 2025

Gameplay

  • 5+ Players 👥

  • 3-7 Minutes ⏱️

What You’ll Need

  • Clothespins – one per player (sturdy wooden ones work best)

  • A large open space (indoor or outdoor)

Setup

  • Give each player one clothespin.

  • Instruct them to clip it to the bottom right hem of their shirt, near their hip.

  • Divide the group into rounds—guys vs. guys, girls vs. girls, or even multiple rounds if your group is large.

How to Play

  • Start with a countdown – "3… 2… 1… GO!"

  • Everyone runs around trying to snatch others' clothespins.

  • Rule #1: Protect your own! Players are allowed to use one hand or arm to cover or shield their clothespin—but no double-handing or body blocking!

  • If your clothespin gets pulled, you’re out! Step out of the play area and cheer on the remaining players.

  • The last person with a clothespin wins that round.

  • Play multiple rounds or crown an overall champion.

Say Something Like
"Alright everybody, grab a clothespin and clip it to your bottom-right side—right by your hip! Your job is simple: steal other people's pins while protecting your own. You can use your hand or arm to block, but no tackling or crazy ninja moves. Last one standing with their pin wins! Guys, you’re up first—let’s go!"

Variations

  • Team Battle – Divide into two teams. If your pin gets stolen, you're out, but your teammates can keep fighting for the win.

  • Blindfold Snatch – Add blindfolds for extreme chaos (use with caution and soft surroundings).

  • Pin Freeze – If your pin gets stolen, you must freeze in place. Another player can “revive” you by giving you their second pin.

Teaching Points
This game is a great lead-in to lessons on guarding your heart (Proverbs 4:23), spiritual alertness, or standing strong in trials. The act of protecting and defending can visually connect to staying spiritually aware in today’s world.

This game idea was submitted by Danny Ortiz.

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Keywords: youth group game, party game, outdoor game, no-prep game, camp game, action game, group competition, energetic game, family game,