No matter what you call it, it’s all the same. While the origin of cornhole is speculated, it is believed to have stemmed back to the 14th century in Germany, making a comeback in the United States some 100 years ago in the Midwest.

The draw of cornhole is not only the fact that it can be played by children and adults alike, but that it can be played anywhere-indoors, outdoors, at the beach, in the driveway. The simple game-play instructions makes it an easy game for anyone to catch onto and learn, and creates a perfect party game for any family outing or friendly get-together cornhole set.

The concept is simple-get the corn bag (or bean bag) into the hole by standing 30 feet away from the cornhole board. Take turns with other players in an attempt to be the first to reach 21 points. Cornhole can be played either as singles or doubles, which means it can be four players (two against two) or two players (one against one). Doubles play means that each player takes turn pitching for each cornhole board, while singles can use one platform for play, taking turns accordingly. And just like baseball, cornhole matches are broken down into innings. The top of the inning is marked by the first contestant pitching four corn bags during their turn, while the bottom of the inning is when the opposing team or contestant pitches their four corn bags. Innings are not complete until each contestant pitches all of their corn bags.

Another part of cornhole that is typically regulated is the set up of the cornhole court. The dimensions of the area should be about ten feet wide and forty-five feet long, and should utilize two platforms set up in a north/south positioning twenty-seven feet apart. Other cornhole courts, if laid out alongside, should be spaced at least ten feet apart to avoid distraction of the other game.

There is also a point for foul lines dependent on the age of the players. There is an adult foul play line at twenty-seven feet, and there is a junior foul play line that measures out at twenty-one feet away from the actual hole on the opposite cornhole board.

Onto the points. There are two ways to score points, by either getting an “in-the-hole” point or by receiving an “on-the-board” point. If a corn bag is thrown into the hole, or is pushed into the hole by another player’s corn bag, than it is considered “in-the-hole” and gets the team or player three points. If the corn bag lands anywhere on the board, then it receives one “on-the-board” point. A corn bag that lands off the board and on the ground does not receive any score, and some also consider all four bags in-the-hole during one inning an automatic game win.

When it comes to ACA (American Cornhole Association) tournaments, the game play is a little more restricted and certain guidelines and rules must be met, but when playing a simple game of cornhole with friends and family during a backyard barbecue, certain rules can be left as is to make it easier for others to learn and play. However, ACA cornhole rules and tournament play include a number of other rules and regulations including cancellation scoring, Hole-In (or HI) Percentages, pitching and position requirements, as well as foul corn bags.

Cornhole is a great game to play regardless of age or ability. It is perfect for family get-togethers or school carnivals, and offers inexpensive fun and entertainment for any group looking for an easy game that boosts instant conversation and comradery.