Vacation Bible School (VBS) is one of the most anticipated events of the summer for many kids. It’s filled with excitement, laughter, and an opportunity to grow in faith. But let’s face it – a VBS that’s all lessons and no play is like a birthday party without cake! Games are a vital part of the VBS experience, keeping kids engaged and helping them apply Bible stories in a fun and interactive way. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor or indoor VBS, I’ve gathered some super fun VBS games that will have the kids laughing, learning, and asking for more!
Outdoor VBS Games for Kids
Outdoor VBS games are a fantastic way to get kids moving, exploring, and engaging with each other in a fun and energetic environment. The fresh air and open space allow children to participate in larger-than-life activities that might be difficult to do indoors. Whether it’s running around in a relay race, hunting for hidden treasures in a scavenger hunt, or playing games like “Bible tag” or “Fruit of the Spirit races,” the possibilities for adventure are endless. Outdoor games encourage kids to step outside their comfort zones, foster teamwork, and help them burn off some energy while still learning about the Bible. The excitement of being outdoors gives kids a sense of freedom, which makes the experience feel even more special.
Additionally, outdoor VBS games provide a unique opportunity to connect lessons to the beauty of God’s creation. Kids can learn about the natural world around them while engaging with Bible stories that highlight the wonders of nature, like the Creation story. It’s a great way to tie in Bible teachings with real-world experiences, helping children appreciate both the spiritual and physical aspects of the world God created. The outdoor setting also allows for bigger group activities, like team games or interactive Bible relays, that are challenging, fun, and memorable. The combination of physical activity and faith-based learning ensures that kids not only have a blast but also develop lasting memories of their VBS experience.
Indoor VBS Games for Kids
Indoor VBS games offer a fun, controlled environment where kids can stay engaged regardless of the weather outside. Whether it’s a rainy day or the scorching heat of summer, indoor games provide a cozy setting where kids can stay cool and dry while still having tons of fun. The structured space of a classroom or fellowship hall is perfect for creative games that involve problem-solving, teamwork, and Bible learning. From Bible Bingo to matching games, indoor activities can be tailored to different age groups and learning styles, ensuring every child stays involved and entertained. Plus, the smaller, more intimate environment of indoor games helps kids focus on the lesson without distractions, providing a great opportunity for deeper discussions and personal reflection.
Moreover, indoor VBS games allow for unique, imaginative activities that might not be possible outdoors. Games like “Bible Jeopardy” or “Christian charades” can be adapted for a classroom setting, where kids can participate in challenges that stretch their minds and creativity. The ability to use props, decorations, and themed rooms also adds a level of excitement and immersion to indoor games. With so many creative possibilities, indoor games can be just as exciting as outdoor activities while ensuring kids stay engaged, active, and spiritually connected. The fun atmosphere fosters friendships, learning, and an unforgettable VBS experience, no matter where it’s held!
10 Awesome VBS Games for Kids That Are Sure to Bring Fun and Learning
Here are 10 creative VBS games for kids that incorporate Bible lessons in a way that kids will love. So, grab your supplies and get ready to plan a memorable and faith-filled summer! Click on each image below to access the game instructions and printables.
10 Plagues Matching Game
This one is perfect for reviewing the story of Moses and the Exodus! The 10 Plagues Matching Game is an easy-to-prepare game where kids will match a picture of each plague with its corresponding text. This game is not only fun, but it’s also a great way for the kids to remember key details about the story of God’s power over Pharaoh.
Depending on your available space, this game can be adapted as both indoor and outdoor VBS games. For a more competitive twist, you can turn it into a race to see which team matches all the plagues the fastest! You can access the free printable 10 Plagues of Egypt Matching Game by clicking the image above.
Armor of God Matching Game
Another fantastic game to incorporate into your VBS is the Armor of God Matching Game. This game teaches kids about the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18. Kids will match pictures of different pieces of Armor (helmet, shield, sword, etc.) with the corresponding text. This will give them a visual understanding of how they can “put on” the Armor of God in their daily lives. This game works great for both indoor and outdoor VBS games. Get your free printable game by clicking the image above.
Armor of God Scavenger Hunt
Combine the lesson of the Armor of God with a scavenger hunt, and you’ve got yourself an exciting and educational VBS game! For the Armor of God Scavenger Hunt, hide the included printable cards around your VBS area that represent each piece of the Armor: a helmet, shield, sword, and belt, for example. As the children find each item, you can discuss the specific piece of Armor and its meaning in the Christian life.
This can be an outdoor VBS game, taking advantage of the space around your church. Also, it can be modified for indoor VBS games in classrooms or hallways. It’s an engaging way for kids to physically move while learning about spiritual protection!
Creation Scavenger Hunt
God’s creation is a perfect theme for an exciting scavenger hunt! In the Creation Scavenger Hunt, children will search for printable cards that correspond to the days of creation. This game is great for teaching kids about the beauty and wonder of God’s creation, all while they have fun running around looking for the right items.
The Creation Scavenger Hunt works well as both an indoor and outdoor VBS game. If you’re outside, kids can explore the natural world. If you’re inside, you can bring the natural world to them with themed stations that represent each creation day. Get access to the Creation Scavenger Hunt by clicking the image above.
Bible Bingo Games
Bible Bingo is a classic VBS game that is super easy to set up and play! You can choose from 10 Commandments Bingo, 10 Plagues of Egypt Bingo, or Fruit of the Spirit Bingo. As you call out clues, children will mark the corresponding items on their cards. This game can help kids better understand Bible stories and concepts in a way that’s accessible and interactive.
You can host Bible Bingo as one of your indoor VBS games. The beauty of this game is that you can customize it for any age group and adjust the difficulty to suit their understanding of the Bible. Get your free Bible bingo games by clicking the image above.
Good Samaritan Relay Race Game
The Good Samaritan story from the Gospel of Luke teaches kindness and compassion. To bring this story to life, you can play the Good Samaritan Relay Race Game. In this game, children will race to bandage up the “wounded man” and complete a series of challenges that represent the actions of the Good Samaritan.
This game works wonderfully as an outdoor VBS game, especially if you have a larger space for running and relays. However, it can also be modified to work as an indoor VBS game if you have a large space. Get the game instructions and free printable by clicking the image above.
Fruit of the Spirit Matching Game
Galatians 5:22-23 talks about the Fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The Fruit of the Spirit Matching Game helps kids learn and remember these qualities while having fun. In this game, children will match pictures of each Fruit of the Spirit, reinforcing the positive qualities that come from living a life led by the Holy Spirit.
You can set this up as either an indoor or outdoor VBS game, depending on your venue. For added fun, challenge the kids to come up with real-life examples of how they can show the Fruits of the Spirit! Get the game printable by clicking the image above.
Fruit of the Spirit Scavenger Hunt
For another fun twist, try the Fruit of the Spirit Scavenger Hunt. In this version of the game, kids will search for printable cards that represent each of the nine spiritual Fruits. As they find each item, talk about how these traits can help them grow closer to God.
This scavenger hunt works great for outdoor VBS games, where the kids can explore and find cards that represent the Fruits of the Spirit. You can also adapt it for indoor spaces with creative decorations and fruit snacks. Get your free printable Fruit of the Spirit Scavenger Hunt by clicking the image above.
Bible Scavenger Hunt
If you’re looking for a game that covers a variety of Bible stories, the Bible Scavenger Hunt is a winner! Kids will search for printable cards related to different Bible stories. This game reinforces Bible knowledge while keeping kids excited about discovering new Bible stories and concepts.
The Bible Scavenger Hunt can be easily adapted for both indoor and outdoor VBS games. For an outdoor version, you can hide the cards around your church grounds, and for an indoor version, you can set up different themed stations in classrooms. Get the Bible Scavenger Hunt printable by clicking the image above.
10 Commandments Matching Game
The 10 Commandments are essential lessons for kids to learn, and this 10 Commandments Matching Game is a fantastic way to help them do just that. The free printable cards help kids learn the order of the 10 Commandments by matching the Commandments with their corresponding numbers.
This game works perfectly as an indoor VBS game. If you have a larger group, you can divide the kids into teams and turn it into a competition to see who can match them the fastest! Get the 10 Commandments Matching Game by clicking the image above.
10 Commandments Scavenger Hunt
The most popular game on the Shema Culture blog is this 10 Commandments Scavenger Hunt! For this game, you’ll hide clues around your VBS space, each representing one of the Ten Commandments. As kids find each clue, they’ll solve it to learn about the Commandment it represents. This is a fun way for kids to interact with the material and learn through movement and discovery. Note that this game was created to be played in a home setting, so you may need to modify some of the clues to make them work in a church setting. Get your free printable 10 Commandments Scavenger Hunt printable by clicking the image above.
Bonus Ideas for Fun VBS Games
Beyond these 10 games, there are so many more opportunities for fun and learning at VBS! Here are some additional game ideas to add to your summer VBS:
Here are a few simple and fun Bible-themed games that you can play with kids:
VBS Games Idea: Bible Verse Scavenger Hunt
Hide small pieces of paper with portions of Bible verses around the room or yard. Kids need to find them and put the verse together in the correct order. This can help them learn Bible verses and stories while having fun searching. Search this website to find Bible verses for this game.
VBS Games Idea: Bible Charades
Write down different Bible characters, animals, or stories (e.g., David and Goliath, Jonah and the big fish, Moses parting the Red Sea) on pieces of paper. Each child takes turns drawing one and acting it out for others to guess. This helps kids learn more about the Bible in a playful way.
VBS Games Idea: Bible Pictionary
Set up a Pictionary game where kids draw scenes from Bible stories (e.g., Adam and Eve in the garden, the creation of the world, the parting of the Red Sea). The other players guess what the picture represents. This is a great way to make Bible stories come alive visually!
These games are easy to set up and can help kids engage with Bible teachings while having fun!
Looking for More VBS Fun? Click the Image Below to Discover VBS Craft Ideas:
VBS Games: Conclusion
With these games, your VBS will be filled with laughter, learning, and a deepened understanding of God’s Word. So, whether you’re playing outdoor VBS games or indoor VBS games, the goal is to have fun while planting seeds of faith that will last a lifetime. Get ready for an unforgettable summer of excitement, growth, and spiritual fun!
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