How to play Cornhole

The objective

Your goal is simple: toss beanbags onto a sloped board or through its hole to score. This guide uses the most common beginner-friendly rules. Families and groups may agree on variations before starting.

What you need

Two boards and eight beanbags.

How to set up

1. Place boards opposite each other at an age-appropriate distance.
2. Split into two teams and choose bag colors.

How to play: step by step

1. Players alternate throwing four bags toward the opposite board.
2. Score three for a bag in the hole and one for a bag on the board.
3. Use cancellation scoring: subtract the lower round score from the higher.
4. First to 21 points commonly wins.

Beginner strategies

• Use a smooth underhand arc.
• Aim near the center front of the board.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Crossing the foul line.
• Counting bags that touched the ground first.

Frequently asked questions