Cornhole, or bean bag toss, is a popular lawn game. It has captured many hearts across the world. You’ve likely seen or played this simple, fun game at a tailgate, barbecue, or summer party. Cornhole is popular for its simple rules and fun, competitive play among all ages. ACA is the governing body of cornhole in the USA. Understanding cornhole rules is key to ensuring everyone plays fair and has a great time.
Essential Equipment
To play cornhole, you need two pieces of equipment: the cornhole boards and the cornhole bags. Each piece has specific dimensions and characteristics that are essential for official gameplay.
Cornhole Boards:
- Dimensions: Each board measures 2 feet wide by 4 feet long. The top of the board is angled, with the front edge 3-4 inches off the ground and the back edge standing 12 inches high. The board has a 6-inch diameter hole. It is 9 inches from the top and centered horizontally.
- Material: Official boards are usually made of wood. They have a smooth surface that lets bags slide easily. However, for casual play, boards can be made of plastic or other materials.
Cornhole Bags:
- Size and Weight: Each cornhole bag measures 6 inches by 6 inches and weighs between 15 and 16 ounces. Bags are filled with dried corn kernels, for which the game is named. Or, they are made of synthetic materials for durability.
- Color and Design: Each team uses four bags of the same color or design to avoid confusion with opponents. The bags should be easily distinguishable from one another during play.
With the right equipment in place, you’re ready to set up the game and start playing.
Game Setup
Setting up a game of cornhole is straightforward. But, the board placement and team setup are crucial for a fair and fun game.
Board Placement:
- Distance: Place the two cornhole boards, facing each other, 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge. This is the official distance for competitive play. For casual games or younger players, you can reduce the distance to make the game more accessible.
- Alignment: Ensure both boards are parallel to each other and positioned on a flat surface. Each board’s hole should be closest to the opponent’s side. This allows a clear line of sight between the two holes.
Team Setup:
- Singles Play: In singles play, two players compete against each other. Each player stands on the same side of the boards, one at each board. Players alternate tossing bags at the opposite board.
- Doubles Play: In doubles play, teams of two face off. Each team has one player at each board. Teammates stand on opposite sides. Players on the same team alternate tossing bags. This setup makes for a more dynamic, strategic game. Teammates can communicate and plan their tosses.
Once your game is set up, you’re ready to dive into the cornhole rules of play.
How to Play Cornhole
Cornhole is a simple game to learn, but it can be surprisingly competitive. Let dive into cornhole rules and see how the game is played:
- Tossing Technique: Players take turns tossing bags at the opposite board. They aim to get the bags into the hole or as close as possible. Players must toss the bags underhand and can use different techniques. Such as a high arc for a soft landing or a flat toss for more slides.
- Turn Order: The player or team that scored in the previous round throws first in the next round. If no points were scored, the order remains the same as in the previous round. In doubles, teammates alternate turns until all eight bags (four per team) have been tossed.
Scoring System (Cancellation Scoring):
- In the Hole (Cornhole): A bag that goes through the hole is worth 3 points.
- On the Board (Woody): A bag that lands on the board but doesn’t go through the hole is worth 1 point.
- Cancellation Scoring: At the end of each round, the points are tallied, and the lower score is subtracted from the higher score. Only the team with the higher score in that round adds points to their overall total. For example, if Team A scores 7 points and Team B scores 5, Team A would add 2 points to their total score.
- Fouls and Penalties: A toss is a foul if a player steps past the front of the board or if a bag hits the ground before landing on the board. The bag is removed from the play.
- Reaching 21 Points: The game continues until a team or player reaches or exceeds 21 points, and that team wins.
Once you understand the basic cornhole rules, you can start playing and enjoying the game!
Conclusion
Cornhole is a game with simple rules and fun gameplay. It’s a popular choice for gatherings and casual competition. Understanding the basic cornhole rules and equipment ensures that everyone enjoys the game. Cornhole is great for fun and friendly competition. You can perfect your toss or try some fun variations. So, gather your friends, set up the boards, and play. You might find a new favorite pastime!
