Home/Games/Ghost in the Graveyard

Kids & Teens

Ghost in the Graveyard

A spooky variation of tag that is perfect for summer nights.

Ghost in the Graveyard is the quintessential summer night game that combines the suspense of Hide and Seek with the adrenaline of Tag. It is a game that thrives on atmosphere—the darker the better! The slow, rhythmic chanting of the hours ("1 o'clock... 2 o'clock...") builds anticipation until the inevitable scream of "Ghost in the Graveyard!" sends everyone sprinting for safety. It encourages teamwork among the hunters and stealth for the ghost. This game is a rite of passage for many childhoods and is excellent for burning off energy before bedtime at sleepovers or camping trips.

Players

Duration

30-60 mins

Budget

Free

Mess Level

Low

Note:Low mess, but watch out for grass stains if players trip while running!

📋What You Need

Flashlights (optional)
Home Base marker (tree, porch, etc.)

Hungry Players? 🍕

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

Pizza Planner

How many pies to buy?

Taco Bar Planner

Meat & toppings list

See All Calculators →

How to Play

🗺️ Field Map

Ghost in the Graveyard

🏠Home Base(Safe Zone)

👻

The Graveyard

Where the Ghost Hides

🌲

🌳

🪨

🌲

👻

Safe Zone

Hiding Area

Players must spot the Ghost before they get tagged!

Pick a Ghost

One player is chosen to be the Ghost. Everyone else gathers at "Base".

Counting

Players at Base count loudly: "1 o'clock, 2 o'clock... midnight!" while the Ghost hides.

The Hunt

Players leave Base to search for the Ghost in the yard/area. Linking arms is optional but fun for safety.

The Chase

When a player spots the Ghost, they yell "Ghost in the Graveyard!". The Ghost then chases everyone back to Base. If tagged, you become the Ghost for the next round.

🌮

Hungry after playing?

Use our calculator to plan a taco feast.

Try Taco Calculator →

Pro Tips & Tricks

Establish clear boundaries for the "Graveyard" (playing area) before starting.
Use the buddy system for younger kids.
If playing in total darkness, give the Ghost a flashlight to turn on when they are spotted.

Fun Variations to Try

✨Flashlight Ghost

The hunters have flashlights, but the Ghost does not. The Ghost must be spotted by a beam of light before the chase begins.

✨Multiple Ghosts

For large groups, start with two Ghosts. This makes the hunting phase much more tense as danger could be anywhere!

Common Questions (FAQ)

QWhat is "Base"?

Base is a designated safe zone, usually a porch, a large tree, or a specific illuminated area where the Ghost cannot tag players.

QIs it scary?

It can be a little spooky because of the dark and the "jump scare" element, but it is meant to be fun. Assess your group's comfort level with the dark before playing.

👻

Printable Asset