There are many traditional field day games that are fun for adults. Mix up the activities to include races, ball-based games and, if weather permits, water-based events. Plan activities that encourage friendly competition and are suitable for all physical levels. Team-building games are ideal, because they help strengthen communication, leadership and teamwork skills. Consider awarding the top performers of each game with a gift certificate or a donation to their favorite charity. Stress safety measures to prevent injury.
Races and Relays
Every field day should include fun and wacky races. One traditional field day race is the sack race. Get potato sacks that are sized for adults. Wheelbarrow races are a fun event and can be played with one teammate pushing around another teammate in real wheelbarrow or a teammate "walking" with hands on the ground while another teammate holds her legs up. Three-legged races are another classic event for two-member teams. It’s also cost effective as you can use almost anything to tie the two teammates' legs together, for example, a hair bandana or a simple piece of rope.
Ball Activities
Have a basketball shooting competition. See who can shoot the most 3-pointers the farthest from the hoop or who can score the most in one minute. Flag football and dodge ball are high-energy activities that give everyone a good workout. Set up an inflatable bowling set and see who can score a strike first.
Water Games
Field day games with water offer participants a chance to cool down, so schedule them towards the middle of the day. A water balloon toss is an affordable crowd-pleaser. If you have access to a hill, set up a water slide made from a plastic tarp, wet it sufficiently and have a timed race. Get a water hose and spray a steady stream into the air and ask everyone to try water limbo. The person who can go the lowest without getting soaked wins.
Other Fun Activities
Tug of war makes for an energetic, and affordable, team competition. Obstacle courses and scavenger hunts are fun and challenging team activities that involve communication, planning and teamwork skills. Have a hula hoop competition and award the person who can keep the hula hoop around their waist the longest. Try tossing horseshoes or bean bags. If inclement weather drives your field day indoors, break out a video game console with motion sensors and have a virtual sporting competition for bowling or golf.