Summer is technically less than a week away, but it sure doesn’t feel like it’s ever going to show itself in Montana. Sure, there have been bits of sun and warmth on occasion, but it’s been historically soggy – and cloudy – in the western part of the state. Nevertheless, we can’t let it get us down, especially with prime beer drinking season almost upon us.

So, while we wait, here are two of my favorite games to play in the backyard while enjoying a frosty beverage (which lately has been Sierra Nevada’s Summerfest):

Ladder Ball

Rules of the game vary, and for those you who play, I don’t want to start a big argument, which has happened. Basically, there are two teams of two, and the two “ladders” are placed about 15 feet apart. The object is to score exactly 21 points by tossing “bolas” (two balls attached with a string) and wrapping them around the steps. The top step is worth 3, the middle step 2 and the bottom step is worth 1. Opposite team members stand by each ladder and take turns throwing their three bolas. More details of the game can be found here, and if you don’t have a set, you can buy a fairly cheap one here or at a sports store.

Bean Bag Toss (aka Cornhole)

This has been my game of choice over the past year, I guess because I got a little burned out on Ladder Ball. According to the American Cornhole Association (yes, there is such a thing) the two boxes’ front edges should sit 27 feet from each other. When I play with my friends, draining the bean bag counts as 3 points and you get 1 point for landing it on the surface, but it has to remain there after each person on a side has thrown their three bags. Again, you have to get exactly 21 points and it’s best to play with two teams of two. If you don’t have a set, I’m sure it wouldn’t be too hard to make one if you’re handy.

If you’ve played these games then you already know how fun they are, and if not, then you should give them a whirl. And if anyone has any other backyard games they love go ahead and add a comment. Cheers.

- Matt Pritchard

I’ve always wanted to learn how to play pinochle. Ever since hearing my friends’ grandparents talk about it obsessively, I figured it would be fun. But what’s more fun than playing cards while enjoying great Montana craft beer at Bitterroot Brewing. Talk about having your cake and eat it too.

Here’s the deal:

Pinochle and Pints!

Tuesday night Pinochle is back in season….we’ll be ready to play at 6:00pm every Tuesday, so come on down and have some fun.  We’ll have someone assigned to teach new folks how to play every Tuesday (It’s amazing what someone will do for free beer!), so even if you’ve never played the game before you’ll be in good hands

.

Prost,

GG

Double-run-and-double