Block Party — 11 kubb pieces in progressive pride flag colors with a crowned king in the center

Show up.
Throw some wood.
Make new friends.

A free, casual, queer Kubb tournament.

Upcoming Block Parties

What is Kubb?

Kubb (pronounced "koob") is a Swedish lawn game where you throw wooden batons to knock over blocks. Think bowling meets bocce ball, but in a park. Games take 15–20 minutes and it's incredibly easy to learn. Teams play through a double-elimination bracket, and eliminated teams keep playing casual pickup games all day.

You don't need to know how to play.
We'll teach you.

How It Works

1

Sign up online

Register individually. You can also request a buddy if you want to be on the same team as a friend.

2

Show up

Arrive at the venue on game day and check in. Get randomly assigned to a team.

3

Play kubb

Play through a double-elimination bracket, all tracked on your phone. Eliminated? Keep playing pickup games.

4

Make friends

Meet new people and hang out all day on the lakefront.

More than a tournament

Block Party exists to get the queer community outside, mixing people up in a low-pressure, high-fun environment. We randomly assign teams because the whole point is meeting people you wouldn't otherwise. The competition isn't the goal, so keep it casual and come meet new people.

No experience needed.
No tryouts.
No pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know how to play?+

Nope! Please watch this short video before the tournament and others will help you learn on the field. It's easy!

How are teams formed?+

Teams are randomly generated when the tournament starts, 3 to 6 people per team. You get placed with people you probably don't know yet. That's the whole point. You can also request a buddy during registration if you want to guarantee you're on the same team as a friend.

What does a team captain do?+

Not much! Confirm your team is at the field, start the game timer, and report who won. It takes about 10 seconds. During registration you can say whether you'd love to captain, you're open to it, or you'd rather just play.

Can I bring a friend?+

Yes! Have them register here and you'll both be in the tournament. You can also request each other as a buddy during registration to guarantee you're on the same team.

What should I bring?+

Bring what you like! It's a public park and the tournament can last a while, so snacks and beverages are a great idea along with sunscreen and other obvious outdoor essentials. We're playing on grass. It doesn't get too messy, but we wouldn't want you to mess up your finest outfits, so dress casual.

We also ask anyone who has a Kubb set to bring it! You can note that you have a set when you register or from your profile. If you're bringing a set, please show up about 15 minutes early.

What if it rains?+

Every event has a backup date. We make the call about a week ahead and announce it over email and on Instagram so nobody's left guessing.

How long does it take?+

About 3 to 4 hours, start to finish. Individual games run 15 to 20 minutes. You're also free to leave early if you need to. It's not a competitive league!

Is it competitive?+

No! There's a bracket, but the vibe is casual and community-first. Playful sass is encouraged, rage is not.

What happens if my team gets eliminated?+

You keep playing! Eliminated teams claim an open field and start casual pickup games while the bracket continues. You're never just standing around.

Is Block Party only for queer people?+

Block Party is built by and for the queer community. Allies are welcome too. The goal is to create a space where queer folks feel centered and comfortable, while being open to anyone who shows up in that spirit.

Can I bring my kids or family?+

It's a queer adult event in a public park. We welcome everyone, but we're not babysitters and we swear. A lot. So it's your call. Make good choices!

Is the event accessible?+

Kubb is pretty low-impact. You're throwing lightweight wooden batons on grass. If you have specific accessibility needs, reach out and we'll work with you.

How do I stay in the loop?+

Register and we'll email you. You can also follow us on Instagram for event announcements, registration openings, weather updates, and recaps.