If you’ve ever attended a backyard BBQ, tailgating event, or summer festival, you’ve probably seen people tossing bean bags at slanted wooden boards with holes in the center. This classic game is called cornhole, and it has become a beloved pastime for people of all ages. Easy to set up, simple to play, and perfect for casual or competitive settings, cornhole is one of the most popular outdoor games in the United States.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or someone who’s just discovering this game, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about cornhole—from choosing the right cornhole boards and cornhole bags to learning the correct cornhole board dimensions and mastering the official cornhole rules. Let’s dive into the world of cornhole!
Contents
- 1 1. The History of Cornhole: How Did This Game Start?
- 2 2. Cornhole Board Dimensions: Getting the Right Size
- 3 3. Cornhole Distance: How Far Apart Should the Boards Be?
- 4 4. Cornhole Bags: Choosing the Right Ones for Your Game
- 5 5. Cornhole Rules: How to Play the Game
- 6 6. Cornhole Strategy: Tips to Improve Your Game
- 7 FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Cornhole
- 8 Conclusion: Cornhole – A Game for Everyone
1. The History of Cornhole: How Did This Game Start?
Cornhole’s origins are surprisingly hard to pin down. Some claim it dates back to 14th-century Germany, while others attribute its rise to Native American communities, who played similar games with filled animal bladders. However, the modern version of cornhole as we know it today is believed to have gained popularity in Cincinnati, Ohio, in the 1970s.
Initially, the game was called “Baggo” or “Bean Bag Toss,” but eventually, it adopted the name “cornhole,” referencing the fact that the original cornhole bags were filled with dried corn kernels. Today, cornhole is played at tailgates, festivals, picnics, and even national tournaments. The game has become so popular that there’s even a professional cornhole league!
2. Cornhole Board Dimensions: Getting the Right Size
If you’re setting up a game of cornhole at home, one of the most important things to get right is the cornhole board dimensions. Whether you’re building your own or purchasing a set, understanding the official sizes can make a big difference in gameplay, especially if you’re preparing for a more serious match.
Official Cornhole Board Dimensions
According to the American Cornhole Association (ACA), the official cornhole board dimensions are as follows:
- Length: 48 inches (4 feet)
- Width: 24 inches (2 feet)
- Hole Diameter: 6 inches
- Front Height: 3-4 inches off the ground
- Back Height: 12 inches off the ground (angled slope)
The cornhole boards are made from plywood, and they must be smooth so the cornhole bags can slide when thrown. The hole is centered horizontally and located 9 inches from the back edge of the board.
If you plan on building your own boards, these cornhole board dimensions will ensure you follow regulation size, making it suitable for casual and competitive play alike.
3. Cornhole Distance: How Far Apart Should the Boards Be?
Another essential aspect of setting up a proper cornhole game is getting the cornhole distance right. The cornhole distance refers to how far apart the two cornhole boards should be from each other. According to official cornhole rules, the distance between the front edges of the two boards should be 27 feet for adult play.
However, if you’re playing casually or with children, you can shorten the cornhole distance to make the game more approachable. A distance of 21 feet between boards is a common adjustment for more relaxed games.
For official tournaments or serious practice, always stick to the standard 27-foot cornhole distance to maintain consistency in your gameplay.
4. Cornhole Bags: Choosing the Right Ones for Your Game
A game of cornhole isn’t complete without the perfect set of cornhole bags. In the early days of cornhole, the bags were filled with dried corn kernels—hence the name “cornhole.” Today, however, most professional cornhole bags are filled with resin pellets to prevent mold or damage from moisture. The outer material is usually made of durable fabric, such as duck cloth or canvas.
Official Cornhole Bag Specifications
According to ACA rules, the standard cornhole bags must meet the following specifications:
- Dimensions: 6 inches x 6 inches square
- Weight: 15-16 ounces
- Filling: Resin pellets or corn (depending on your preference)
You can buy cornhole bags in various colors and patterns to suit your style or match your favorite sports team. Just make sure that the bags are well-constructed so they don’t break or leak, as this can affect gameplay.
Tips for Picking Cornhole Bags
- If you’re playing outdoors often, consider getting weather-resistant bags filled with resin pellets.
- Bags filled with dried corn are still popular for indoor or dry conditions and give a nostalgic touch to the game.
- Always get two sets of four bags, each set in a different color to distinguish the teams easily.
5. Cornhole Rules: How to Play the Game
While cornhole is easy to pick up, knowing the official cornhole rules will help you play the game correctly, whether you’re just having fun or competing in a more serious setting. The rules are simple, making the game accessible to players of all skill levels.
Basic Cornhole Rules:
- Teams: Cornhole is usually played with two teams, with each team consisting of one or two players. If playing with two players per team, each player takes turns throwing from opposite sides of the board.
- Objective: The goal is to score points by tossing cornhole bags onto the board or into the hole.
- Scoring:
- In the Hole: 3 points for each bag that goes through the hole.
- On the Board: 1 point for each bag that lands on the board but does not fall into the hole.
- Off the Board: No points are awarded for bags that land on the ground or bounce off the board.
- Game Play:
- Each player takes turns throwing four bags, alternating between teams. After all eight bags have been thrown, the round ends, and points are tallied. Only one team can score points per round, based on the difference in points between the two teams.
- The game continues until one team reaches or exceeds 21 points.
Special Cornhole Rules:
- Cancellation Scoring: If both teams land a bag in the hole during a single round, the points cancel each other out. For example, if Team A scores 6 points and Team B scores 4, Team A would only be awarded 2 points for that round.
- Foot Faults: Players must stay behind the front edge of the cornhole board while throwing. If a player crosses the line before the bag leaves their hand, it’s considered a foot fault, and that throw is disqualified.
6. Cornhole Strategy: Tips to Improve Your Game
While cornhole may seem like a simple game, there’s actually a lot of strategy involved, especially if you want to improve your accuracy and consistency. Whether you’re playing casually or preparing for a tournament, here are some tips to take your cornhole game to the next level:
1. Perfect Your Throwing Technique
There are different ways to throw a cornhole bag, but one of the most popular methods is the “flat throw,” where the bag spins horizontally and lands flat on the board. This type of throw is less likely to bounce or slide off the board, giving you better control over where it lands.
2. Control the Distance
Mastering the correct cornhole distance between boards is crucial for consistent throws. Practicing at the official cornhole distance (27 feet) will help you develop muscle memory, so you don’t need to adjust your strength every time you play.
3. Defensive Play
Cornhole isn’t just about sinking your bag into the hole. Sometimes, it’s strategically better to land your bag on the board to block your opponent’s throws. By placing your bag in front of the hole, you can force your opponent to go around it or risk knocking your bag into the hole.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Cornhole
What are the official cornhole board dimensions?
The official cornhole board dimensions are 48 inches in length and 24 inches in width. The hole is 6 inches in diameter and is centered 9 inches from the back of the board.
How far apart should cornhole boards be?
The official cornhole distance between the front edges of the boards should be 27 feet for adult play. For casual or children’s games, you can shorten the distance to 21 feet.
What are cornhole bags made of?
Traditional cornhole bags were filled with dried corn kernels, but modern bags are often filled with resin pellets. The outer material is typically made from durable fabric such as canvas or duck cloth.
How do you score points in cornhole?
In cornhole, you score 3 points for getting the bag into the hole and 1 point for landing the bag on the board. Points are calculated by subtracting the lower score from the higher score in each round.
Where can I buy cornhole boards?
You can buy cornhole boards at sporting goods stores, online marketplaces, or specialty game retailers. If you prefer a DIY approach, you can also build your own using the official cornhole board dimensions.
Conclusion: Cornhole – A Game for Everyone
Cornhole is more than just a casual backyard game—it’s a sport that brings people together, whether for friendly competition or serious tournaments. With the right cornhole boards, cornhole bags, and a basic understanding of the cornhole rules, you’ll be ready to enjoy countless hours of fun.
Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned player fine-tuning your strategy, cornhole is a game that can be enjoyed by everyone. So grab your cornhole bags, set up your boards, and start tossing!
