Around the Mountain Game

Around the Mountain is a fun and active game. It helps youth get to know each other. It also helps them feel more comfortable in a group. Everyone has a chance to learn something new about others.

This game builds friendship. As youth hear others’ answers, they find what they have in common. This can lead to good conversations and new bonds. It helps youth see they are not alone.

The game also gets everyone moving. This helps with energy and focus. It can break the ice at the start of a retreat or gathering. Movement and laughter help youth feel relaxed and open.

Around the Mountain is also a way to practice kindness. No one is ever left out. Everyone gets a turn. The group learns to listen and to care about what others say. This builds trust and joy.

Around the Mountain can remind us of the people of Israel walking through the desert. They followed God for many years. They did not always know where they were going, but they trusted Him. This game has us walking in a circle, too. It helps us think about how we follow God, even when the path is not clear.

It also brings to mind the idea of being called. In the game, someone calls others to get up and move. In the Bible, God calls people by name. He called Moses, Samuel, Mary, and many others. This game shows how we listen for a call and how we respond.

Another theme is change. In the game, we leave our old seat and find a new one. In our faith life, God often moves us from one place to another. We grow. We change. We step out in faith. The game gives a small picture of what it means to be open and ready.

This game helps youth ministry by tying play to faith. It shows that faith is not only quiet or serious. God works in joy too. He meets us in simple moments and small games. And He teaches us even as we laugh.

Equipment / Materials Needed

• Chairs (one less than the number of players)
• Open space (large enough for a circle of chairs and safe movement)

Setup Instructions

1. Arrange the chairs in a circle.
2. Make sure there is enough space between chairs to move safely.
3. Choose one person to stand in the middle. This person is It.
4. All others sit in the chairs.

Game Play Instructions

1. The person in the middle says, “Run around the mountain if you…” and finishes the sentence with something true for some people.
   Example: “Run around the mountain if you have a pet.”
2. Everyone for whom the statement is true stands up, runs around the outside of the circle one time, and finds a new chair to sit in.
3. The person who was in the middle also tries to sit in one of the chairs.
4. One person will be left without a chair. That person is now It and stands in the middle.
5. Repeat the steps as time allows or as long as the group enjoys the game.

Notes and Variations

• Remind players to walk or jog safely. No pushing or bumping.
• Use safe shoes and play on a smooth surface to avoid falls.
• You can play with themes such as school, family, faith, or likes and dislikes.
• For younger children or small spaces, walking instead of running may be better.

Love Your Neighbor Game

The Love Your Neighbor game is a great match for the Around the Mountain game. Both games use chairs in a circle and encourage movement, laughter, and learning about each other. They both help break the ice and get people talking. Try using one at the beginning of your event and the other later on to keep the group energy going.

Each game can also tie into youth ministry themes like listening, kindness, and God’s call. The Around the Mountain game focuses on sharing and noticing what we have in common. The Love Your Neighbor game adds a focus on responding with love and care. Using both games together can help make your youth meeting fun, active, and meaningful.

What is the Around the Mountain game?

It is an active icebreaker game where players move if a statement is true for them. It helps people learn about each other.

How many people can play the Around the Mountain game?

You need at least 6 people, but it works better with 10 or more.

What do I need to play the Around the Mountain game?

You only need chairs—one less than the number of players—and space to move around safely.

Is the Around the Mountain game safe for all ages?

Yes, but make sure the space is clear and the players move carefully. Young children should walk instead of run.

Can I change the questions in the Around the Mountain game?

Yes. Players can make up their own “Run around the mountain if you…” questions. Keep it friendly and fun.

Where can I find more games like the Around the Mountain game?

You can visit our youth ministry games page for more ideas.

This game brings energy, smiles, and surprises. It gives youth a chance to move, laugh, and learn something new about each other. Every round is different. Every answer shows a little piece of someone’s story.

It also reminds us of the joy found in simple things. We do not always need big plans or fancy tools. A few chairs, a group of willing players, and a good question are enough to make strong memories.

And it helps young people feel seen. When someone hears a statement that fits them, they know they are not alone. When others laugh and listen, they feel like they belong.

It’s easy to learn, quick to set up, and always fresh. This game brings joy and movement to any gathering. Try it once, and you’ll likely play it again.

Try the game at your next youth group night or retreat. It works great at the start of a gathering when people are still warming up. You don’t need much, just a group and a little space.

Have fun with it, and let us know how it goes. Share your own question ideas, funny moments, or game tips in the comment section. We’d love to hear how you made the game your own.