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Kids & Teens

Capture the Flag

A high-energy outdoor strategy game perfect for large groups, summer camps, or backyard parties.

Capture the Flag is the ultimate outdoor game of strategy, teamwork, and physical endurance. It has been a staple of summer camps and school physical education programs for decades because it perfectly balances individual skill with collective effort. The game transforms any open field or wooded area into a tactical battlefield where players must navigate enemy territory while defending their own. It teaches critical thinking, cooperation, and the importance of planning. Whether played under the bright sun or as a "glow-in-the-dark" night version, Capture the Flag remains one of the most exhilarating experiences for kids and teens alike.
Players
8+
Duration
30-60 mins
Budget
Low Cost
Mess Level
Medium

Note:Moderate mess risk from grass stains and sweat. Best played in athletic wear.

๐Ÿ“‹What You Need

  • 2 Flags (or bandanas/t-shirts)
  • Cones or markers for boundaries
  • Large outdoor space

Hungry Players? ๐Ÿ•

Planning the food for after the game? Don't guess! Use our free party tools to feed the crowd.

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How to Play

1

Setup

Divide the field into two halves. Place a "flag" at the back of each territory.

2

Jail

Mark a "jail" area in each territory.

3

Goal

Teams try to run into the enemy territory, grab the flag, and bring it back without getting tagged.

4

Tagged

If tagged in enemy territory, you go to jail until a teammate tags you out.

Pro Tips & Tricks

  • Wear different colored shirts or armbands to distinguish teams easily.
  • Hide the flag in a tricky (but visible) spot if playing in a wooded area.
  • Assign roles: some players as defenders, some as scouts, and some as attackers.

Fun Variations to Try

โœจGlow in the Dark

Use glow sticks for the flags and have players wear glowing armbands. This adds a whole new level of suspense and makes it perfect for late-night summer parties.

โœจMultiple Flags

Each team has 3 flags to defend. A team only loses when all 3 of their flags have been captured and brought to the enemy base.

โœจFreeze Tag Version

Instead of going to jail, players are "frozen" where they are tagged. They can only be unfrozen if a teammate crawls through their legs.

Common Questions (FAQ)

QHow large should the field be?

For a group of 10-12 people, a space about the size of half a soccer field is ideal. The larger the group, the more space you should provide.

QWhat happens if the flag is hidden too well?

The rules state the flag must be at least partially visible and cannot be buried or locked away. It should be accessible to anyone who can reach it.

QCan the flag be passed?

In most versions, yes! You can throw the flag to a teammate to get it across the midline faster, which adds a great dynamic to the game.
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Printable Asset

Capture the Flag

Free PDFA4/Letter

Includes high-quality rules, setup guide, and variation cards.
Perfect for hosting without a screen.

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