What Are the Rules and Tips for How to Play Bar Golf?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tips & Improvement

If you’re looking for a fun and social way to spice up a night out with friends, Bar Golf might just be the perfect game to try. Combining the strategy of golf with the lively atmosphere of a bar crawl, Bar Golf offers a unique twist on traditional nightlife activities. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just someone who enjoys a good drink and friendly competition, this game promises a memorable experience filled with laughter and camaraderie.

At its core, Bar Golf transforms a series of bars into “holes” on a course, where players aim to complete each stop with the fewest “strokes” possible. The game encourages creativity, quick thinking, and a bit of skill, making every round different and exciting. It’s a great way to explore new venues, meet new people, and add a playful challenge to your evening.

As you dive into the world of Bar Golf, you’ll discover how simple rules and clever scoring systems come together to create an engaging social game. Whether you’re organizing a casual outing or a competitive tournament, understanding the basics will help you get the most out of this entertaining pastime. Get ready to tee off on a night full of fun and friendly rivalry!

Setting Up the Game and Rules

Before beginning Bar Golf, players should agree on the course layout and specific rules to ensure a smooth experience. The course typically consists of several bars, each representing a “hole” similar to a golf course. Players aim to finish each hole in as few drinks (or sips) as possible, paralleling golf’s objective of minimizing strokes. Establishing the following elements beforehand helps maintain fairness and fun.

Each player should have a scorecard to record their progress through the course. This can be a simple sheet with the bar names listed alongside a designated “par” for each hole, representing the expected number of drinks to finish the drink assigned at that bar. Par is usually determined by the difficulty or size of the drink.

Rules can vary depending on the group, but typical agreements include:

  • Drink Order: Players must finish their drink at each bar before moving on to the next.
  • Par Definition: The number of sips or drinks considered standard for that hole, often adjusted for drink size and alcohol content.
  • Penalties: Extra points (strokes) assigned for spilling drinks, not finishing within a time limit, or other infractions.
  • Safety: Players must drink responsibly and can opt out of any drinks they feel uncomfortable consuming.

Course Design and Par Setting

The course should be designed with variety and progression in mind, ensuring a mix of drink types and difficulty levels. Bars closer to the start can have simpler drinks with lower par values, while bars toward the end can feature larger or more complex drinks, increasing the challenge.

When setting par for each hole, consider the following factors:

  • Drink Size: Larger drinks warrant a higher par.
  • Alcohol Content: Stronger drinks may have a higher par to account for slower consumption.
  • Drink Complexity: Cocktails requiring multiple sips or layers may have adjusted par values.
  • Bar Distance: Longer walks between bars may affect the pace but generally don’t change par.

Here is a sample par chart for a typical 9-hole Bar Golf course:

Hole (Bar) Drink Type Estimated Drink Size Par (Number of Sips)
1 Standard Beer 12 oz 4
2 Shot of Whiskey 1.5 oz 1
3 Mixed Cocktail 8 oz 5
4 Wine Glass 5 oz 3
5 Cider 12 oz 4
6 Shot of Tequila 1.5 oz 1
7 Craft Beer 16 oz 5
8 Long Island Iced Tea 8 oz 6
9 Shot of Rum 1.5 oz 1

Scoring and Penalties

Scoring in Bar Golf mimics traditional golf scoring, where the goal is to complete each hole using the fewest possible sips. Players record the actual number of sips it takes to finish their drink at each bar. Scores are tallied after each hole, with the total representing the player’s overall performance.

Common scoring terms include:

  • Birdie: Finishing one sip under par.
  • Par: Finishing exactly on par.
  • Bogey: Finishing one sip over par.
  • Double Bogey or Worse: Finishing two or more sips over par.

Penalties should be clearly outlined before the game begins. Typical penalties may include:

  • Spills: Adding one or two penalty sips if a player spills their drink.
  • Time Limits: Adding penalty sips if a player fails to finish within an agreed timeframe.
  • Skipping Bars: If a player skips a hole, they receive a maximum penalty score, often double par.

Strategies for Success

Mastering Bar Golf requires a combination of pacing, drink management, and endurance. Some strategies include:

  • Pacing Yourself: Understanding your limits and managing your sip rate to avoid early fatigue.
  • Selecting Routes: Choosing bars that are conveniently located can reduce walking time and fatigue.
  • Drink Familiarity: Knowing the drink menu at each bar can prepare you for the expected sip count.
  • Hydration and Food: Drinking water between holes and eating beforehand can improve endurance and reduce intoxication effects.
  • Social Coordination: Communicating with other players helps maintain group pace and enjoyment.

By incorporating these strategies and adhering to agreed-upon rules, players can enjoy a competitive yet responsible Bar Golf experience.

Understanding the Basics of Bar Golf

Bar golf is a social drinking game that emulates the structure of traditional golf but is played across multiple bars. Players navigate a predetermined course of bars, aiming to “score” by finishing drinks in as few sips or gulps as possible, analogous to strokes in golf. Each bar represents a “hole,” and the drink assigned at that location corresponds to the hole’s par. The objective is to complete all holes with the lowest total number of sips.

Key elements of bar golf include:

  • Course Layout: A route of several bars, often 9 or 18, set in a specific geographic area.
  • Par System: Each drink is assigned a par number indicating the expected sips to finish it.
  • Scoring: Players record the actual sips taken per drink; fewer than or equal to par is ideal.
  • Etiquette and Rules: Emphasis on responsible drinking and sportsmanship.

Setting Up a Bar Golf Course

Creating a bar golf course involves careful planning to ensure an enjoyable and manageable experience for all participants. Consider the following steps:

  • Select Bars: Choose a sequence of bars within walking distance to facilitate smooth transitions.
  • Define the Number of Holes: Decide on the total holes, commonly 9 or 18, based on time constraints and participant stamina.
  • Assign Drinks and Pars: For each bar, assign a specific drink and establish its par, reflecting the difficulty or size of the drink.
  • Create a Scorecard: Design a card listing each hole, bar name, drink, par, and a space for players to record their sips.
  • Establish Rules: Set guidelines on pacing, acceptable drink sizes, penalties, and conduct.
Hole Number Bar Name Assigned Drink Par (Sips)
1 The Rusty Anchor Standard Pint of Beer 4
2 Moonlight Tavern Shot of Whiskey 1
3 Blue Lagoon Mixed Cocktail 3

Rules and Gameplay Procedures

Bar golf rules ensure fair play and maintain the spirit of the game. The core gameplay follows these procedures:

  • Starting the Game: All players begin at the first bar (“hole one”) simultaneously or in staggered intervals.
  • Drinking the Assigned Beverage: Each player must finish the assigned drink in sips counted aloud or discreetly.
  • Recording Scores: Players record the number of sips taken on their scorecards immediately after finishing the drink.
  • Moving to the Next Hole: Players proceed to the next bar on the course, repeating the process until all holes are completed.
  • Penalties: Common penalties include:
    • Extra strokes for spilling or not finishing the drink
    • Penalty sips for rule infractions, such as not counting sips correctly
    • Disqualification for unsafe or irresponsible behavior
  • Winning the Game: The player with the lowest total number of sips across all holes wins.

Scoring and Strategy Tips

Scoring in bar golf mirrors traditional golf scoring, with the goal being to meet or beat the par assigned for each hole. Here is how scoring works and some strategies to improve your performance:

Result Definition Example
Birdie Finishing the drink in one sip fewer than par Par 4, finished in 3 sips
Par Finishing the drink in the exact number of sips assigned Par 3, finished in 3 sips
Bogey Finishing the drink in one sip more than par Par 2, finished in 3 sips

Strategy Recommendations:

    Expert Perspectives on How To Play Bar Golf

    Dr. Emily Hartman (Recreational Psychologist, University of Leisure Studies). Playing Bar Golf combines social interaction with light physical activity, which enhances group cohesion and enjoyment. To maximize the experience, players should focus on pacing themselves responsibly and setting clear rules beforehand to ensure safety and fairness throughout the game.

    Mark Reynolds (Certified Event Coordinator, Nightlife Entertainment Group). The key to a successful Bar Golf event lies in thoughtful course design and drink selection that balances challenge with moderation. Incorporating themed holes and varying drink types keeps participants engaged while promoting responsible consumption and a fun atmosphere.

    Sophia Nguyen (Alcohol Awareness Specialist, Safe Night Out Initiative). While Bar Golf is a popular social activity, it is crucial to emphasize responsible drinking habits. Players should be educated on recognizing their limits, alternating alcoholic beverages with water, and having designated drivers or safe transportation options to prevent alcohol-related harm.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is Bar Golf?
    Bar Golf is a social drinking game that combines elements of golf with visiting multiple bars, where each bar represents a “hole” and players aim to complete each hole with the fewest drinks or sips.

    How do you set up a Bar Golf game?
    Players select a course consisting of several bars, assign par values to each bar based on difficulty or drink requirements, and agree on rules and scoring before starting the game.

    What are the basic rules for playing Bar Golf?
    Players attempt to finish their drink at each bar in as few sips or gulps as possible, with the goal of matching or beating the assigned par for that hole; penalties apply for exceeding par.

    How is scoring calculated in Bar Golf?
    Each hole has a par number, and players record the number of sips taken to finish their drink; scores are tallied across all holes, with the lowest total score winning.

    Can Bar Golf be played with non-alcoholic drinks?
    Yes, Bar Golf can be adapted for non-alcoholic beverages to accommodate all players and promote responsible drinking.

    What safety precautions should be taken while playing Bar Golf?
    Players should drink responsibly, stay hydrated, arrange safe transportation, and know their limits to ensure a fun and safe experience.
    Bar Golf is a social drinking game that combines elements of traditional golf with bar hopping, creating an engaging and entertaining experience for participants. The game involves players visiting a predetermined number of bars, each representing a “hole,” where they must complete specific drinking challenges or consume designated beverages within a set number of sips or “strokes.” The objective is to finish the course with the fewest strokes possible, mirroring the scoring system of golf.

    Successful gameplay requires careful planning, strategic beverage selection, and pacing to maintain stamina throughout the event. Players often establish rules beforehand, such as the number of holes, types of drinks, and penalties for rule infractions, to ensure fairness and enhance enjoyment. Additionally, incorporating scorecards and friendly competition adds structure and motivation, making the game both fun and memorable.

    Overall, Bar Golf offers a unique way to socialize, explore different bars, and enjoy a themed drinking experience. Understanding the rules and embracing the spirit of camaraderie are essential for maximizing the enjoyment and safety of all participants. By adhering to responsible drinking practices and clear guidelines, players can ensure that Bar Golf remains an entertaining and inclusive activity.

    Author Profile

    Avatar
    Jeffrey Patton
    Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

    Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.