June

2009

By
The Staff
of Valet.

Horseshoes

Origin: England

Game: Points awarded for the horseshoe tossed closest to the stake. Played to 21.

Vitals: Two players/teams, 4 horseshoes, 2 stakes.

Buy: $50, at Sports Authority

Bocce

Origin: Italy

Game: Bowling the balls closest to the smaller, target ball. Played to 16.

Vitals: Two players/teams, 8 balls, 1 pallino (target ball).

Buy: $65, at Bocce Ball Sets

Croquet

Origin: Ireland

Game: Each player or pair must knock their balls through each wicket and back again.

Vitals: Two teams, 4 to 6 balls and mallets, 9 wickets, 2 stakes.

Buy: $135, at Restoration Hardware

Washers

Origin: American Midwest

Game: A point for each washer pitched into the box, three for landing in the center cup. Played to 15 or 21.

Vitals: Two players/teams, 2 wooden boxes, 8 washers.

Buy: $36, at Amazon

Classic Yard Games

When the sun is shinning (which has proven a bit rare this summer), there's nothing better than a lazy afternoon in the backyard or park. No cell phone. No dinner reservations. Just good company, some drinks and a lawn game. Here are four of our favorites.