Why is cornhole so popular?

Introduction: cornhole, from garden toy to hype

Maybe you first saw the cornhole game in an American movie, at a festival, or at friends’ in the backyard. In a short time, cornhole has grown from a simple outdoor game into a worldwide trend. But why is cornhole so popular? In this guide we look at the main reasons – from the simple rules to its social and competitive nature.

Are you completely new to cornhole? Then also read What is cornhole? – Basics & game overview or our ultimate beginner’s guide to cornhole to get to know the basics of the game or our Cornhole Hub.

Reason 1: simple rules, quick to understand

One of cornhole’s greatest strengths is its simplicity. The basic rules can be explained in a minute:

• Take turns throwing the bags at the board;
• A bag on the board is 1 point, a bag in the hole is 3 points;
• You often play to 21 points with cancellation scoring.

Because the rules are so simple, anyone can quickly join in – young, old, athletic or not at all. The threshold to get started is extremely low, while the game still offers a lot of depth.

Do you want to know exactly how the scoring works? Then check out Cornhole overview: rules, setup and scoring.

Reason 2: cornhole is a social game

Cornhole is just as much about fun as it is about points. Players stand next to each other at the board, chat between throws and cheer each other on. Spectators can also easily watch and join in the cheering.

That’s why cornhole is a perfect fit for:

• garden parties and barbecues;
• company outings and teambuilding;
• campsites, festivals and sports days;
• family gatherings and birthdays.

On the page How cornhole became a game night classic you can read how the game developed into a regular feature during game nights.

Reason 3: everyone can join in

Unlike many ball sports, with cornhole you don’t have to run, jump or push. You make repetitive, controlled throws from a fixed position. That makes the game suitable for:

• children;
• teenagers;
• adults;
• seniors.

Distance, bag weight and playing area are easy to adjust. In Cornhole explained for children, teens and adults and Who can play cornhole? Accessibility & inclusivity you can read how to adapt the setup to your group.

Reason 4: easy to take with you and set up

A complete cornhole set consists of two boards and eight bags. You put down the boards, measure the distance, divide the bags and you can start playing – within a few minutes you have a complete play area ready.

Because cornhole takes up relatively little space, you can use it almost anywhere:

• in the garden or on the driveway;
• at a campsite pitch;
• in a park or on a festival site;
• indoors in a warehouse or sports hall.

Reason 5: from casual game to serious sport

Another reason why cornhole is so popular: you choose how seriously you want to play it. For one person it’s a light-hearted game during a barbecue, for another it’s a real sport with training sessions and tournaments.

In Is cornhole a sport? you can read how cornhole has grown into a serious competitive sport with official rules, rankings and professional players.

Reason 6: mental challenge and addictive gameplay

Cornhole seems simple, but secretly requires a lot of focus, timing and precision. Every throw is a new chance to throw just a bit better than the previous one. This creates an addictive “just one more game” feeling.

On the page The psychology of cornhole: why it’s so addictive we take a closer look at why players keep coming back for “just one more game”.

Reason 7: cornhole brings people together

Cornhole acts as a social focal point at events: people stick around to watch, spontaneously form teams and laugh together. This creates an informal, relaxed atmosphere in which people can easily talk to each other.

In How cornhole creates community and connection you can read more about the game’s social impact.

Frequently asked questions about the popularity of cornhole