Phony Fun Relay

Time: 15–20 minutes
Best for: elementary to middle school, mixed ages
Setting: indoor or outdoor, open space for running
Scripture Connection: 1 Samuel 16:7 – God Looks at the Heart
Teaching Tie-In: honesty, authenticity, humility, joy, community
Materials Needed: costumes or props (hats, masks, wigs, scarves)
Group Size: teams of 5–6, multiple teams
Energy Level: high
Preparation: gather props, set start line and prop area
Focus Skill: teamwork, confidence, letting go of self-consciousness
Variation: change movement style, individual turns

Phony Fun Relay is a silly game that helps youth open up and laugh together. It breaks the ice quickly and helps everyone feel more comfortable in a group. When people are willing to look silly, they stop worrying about how they look to others. This makes it easier for friendships to grow and for real conversations to happen later.

This game can also help youth think about honesty and how they present themselves. We all wear “masks” sometimes, pretending to be someone we are not. Phony Fun gives a funny way to talk about that idea. It helps youth see how easy it is to hide behind an act and reminds them that God sees who we really are inside.

Playing Phony Fun Relay encourages teamwork and support. Each person needs to help their team move quickly while keeping the props on. They cheer each other on and laugh together. This builds trust and unity in a group, especially when the players have to depend on each other to win.

Finally, this game reminds us that it’s good to laugh. Joy brings people together. It’s also a reminder that faith doesn’t have to be serious all the time. Laughter can teach lessons too. Phony Fun Relay helps youth learn about honesty, teamwork, and joy all at once.

• How to Play
• Printable Instructions
• More Youth Ministry Games

Phony Fun Relay can be a great way to talk about how people sometimes hide from God. In the story of Adam and Eve, they tried to cover themselves and hide after they sinned. The props and masks in this game can remind youth of that moment. Just like Adam and Eve, we sometimes try to hide our mistakes instead of being honest with God. The game helps start a talk about how God still loves us and wants us to come back to Him.

This game can also connect to the story of the Pharisees. Jesus warned against acting holy on the outside while being proud or selfish inside. When youth wear silly hats or masks, they can think about how easy it is to “put on a show.” It opens the door for a talk about being real in faith and not pretending to be perfect.

Phony Fun can help youth understand that God wants truth from our hearts. The fun of the game makes it easier to talk about deeper things later. It helps youth see that hiding or pretending doesn’t bring peace. Being honest with God and others brings freedom and joy. In a playful way, this game can lead to honest reflection about who we are and who God made us to be.

Equipment and Materials

• A mix of fun props such as masks, hats, wigs, sunglasses, scarves, and costume pieces
• Enough props so each player can wear four items, plus a few extra
• Space for running, such as a gym, hall, or open field

Setup

1. Divide the group into teams of about six players each.
2. Place all of the props together in a pile at one end of the play area.
3. Mark a start line at the opposite end of the area.
4. Make sure the space between the start line and the prop pile is clear for running.

Game Play

1. When the leader says “Go,” the first player from each team runs to the prop pile.
2. That player chooses at least four props and puts them on.
3. Once dressed, the player runs back to the start line.
4. If any props fall off while running, the player must stop, return to the pile, and fix them.
5. Players may not hold props on with their hands while running.
6. When a player reaches the start line, they tag the next teammate.
7. The next player runs to the pile, puts on four props, and runs back.
8. Continue until every team member has completed the task.
9. The first team to finish with all players dressed and back at the line wins.

Notes and Variations

• For smaller groups, players can take turns instead of forming teams.
• Try different ways to move, such as skipping or hopping, for extra laughs.
• Remind everyone to watch where they are running and not bump into others.
• Choose props that are soft and safe. Avoid anything that might block vision or cause tripping.
• Take a group photo at the end for fun memories.

What is the Phony Fun game?

The Phony Fun game is a silly relay race where players wear funny props like masks, hats, and wigs. It helps youth laugh and learn about honesty and being real with God.

How many people can play the Phony Fun game?

You can play with any number of people. Teams of about six players work best. If you have a small group, you can take turns instead of forming teams.

What age group can play the Phony Fun game?

This game works well for middle school and high school youth. Younger children can play too if you use safe props and help them understand the meaning.

What materials do I need for the Phony Fun game?

You need props like masks, hats, wigs, sunglasses, and scarves. Make sure you have enough for each person to wear four items.

What lesson does the Phony Fun game teach?

The game helps youth think about being honest and not hiding behind masks. It reminds them that God loves us as we are and sees who we really are inside.

Can I use the Phony Fun game in catechesis?

Yes. It fits lessons about honesty, sin, forgiveness, and being true to our faith.

Sometimes the best lessons come with laughter. This game helps youth laugh together while thinking about how we sometimes hide who we really are. The silly props remind us that pretending can be funny in a game, but it is not how we should live our faith. God invites us to be open and honest.

After playing, it helps to talk about what it means to show our true selves. The game can lead to good conversations about honesty, forgiveness, and trusting God. It also helps youth remember that joy and faith belong together.

When the fun is over, the lesson remains. God already knows our hearts. He wants us to come to Him without fear or disguise. That truth can stay with youth long after the props are put away.

Try the Phony Fun game with your youth group and see how much laughter it brings. It can turn an ordinary gathering into a time of joy and learning. The message about honesty and being real with God will stick with them long after the fun ends.

If you play this game, share your ideas in the comments. Tell us what props you used or how you changed the rules. Your ideas can help others bring more fun and faith into their own youth events.