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The Pin the Tail on the Donkey game is a party classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re five or fifty, there’s something hilarious about watching someone—blindfolded, dizzy, and overly confident—try to stick a tail on a donkey’s butt. It’s simple, chaotic fun that brings everyone together.

Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or team-building nights, this timeless game guarantees laughter, suspense, and just the right amount of friendly competition. All you need are some paper tails, a donkey cutout, and people ready to embarrass themselves a little.

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How to Play Pin the Tail on the Donkey Game

The Pin the Tail on the Donkey game is easy to set up and even easier to get hooked on. It’s all about who can get the closest to the right spot—while blindfolded and spun around, of course.

1. Gather your materials

You’ll need a large donkey poster (without its tail), paper tails with tape or pins, and a blindfold. Bonus points if your tails have players’ names on them—it makes judging easier.

2. Set up the space

Hang the donkey poster on a wall at about eye level for your players. Clear the area so no one bumps into furniture or walls while blindfolded.

3. Decide the order

Choose who goes first—rock-paper-scissors, random draw, or youngest-to-oldest are fair ways to start. Everyone gets one turn per round.

4. Blindfold and spin

Blindfold the player, spin them around three to five times (enough to make them lose direction but not balance), then point them toward the wall.

5. Pin the tail!

The player must walk forward and stick the tail where they think it belongs. Once done, mark their name next to the tail. Repeat for all players.

6. Reveal and judge

When everyone’s had a turn, remove the blindfolds and check whose tail is closest to the donkey’s rear. That player wins!

Pin the Tail on the Donkey Game Rules

The Pin the Tail on the Donkey game might sound simple, but a few rules make it fair (and even funnier). Here’s how to keep it smooth and spirited.

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1. No peeking

Blindfolds must stay tight—no cheating! Anyone caught peeking gets a redo or a funny penalty.

2. Limited spins

Don’t over-spin your players; 3–5 spins are perfect. Too much, and you’ll end up with someone veering off into the buffet table.

3. One try per round

Each player gets one chance to place their tail. Once it sticks, no repositioning!

4. Keep the area clear

Make sure the game zone is free of clutter—safety first. Nobody wants to trip mid-tail.

5. Have a game coordinator

Assign one person to manage blindfolds, spins, and tail placements. It keeps things organized and fair.

6. Mark each tail

Write names on the tails before the game starts so you can tell whose is whose later.

Pin the Tail on the Donkey Game Variations

Want to switch things up? The Pin the Tail on the Donkey game has tons of creative variations for every theme or crowd.

1. Pin the Hat on the Celebrity

Swap the donkey for a celebrity poster and the tail for a paper hat. Whoever gets the hat closest to their head wins!

2. Pin the Crown on the Princess

Perfect for kids’ parties. Replace the donkey with a princess or character and see who can crown them most accurately.

3. Pin the Fin on the Shark

For a summer or pool party twist, print a shark and make paper fins instead of tails.

4. Pin the Nose on Rudolph

A Christmas hit! Use Rudolph’s red nose instead of a tail. Add festive music for extra fun.

5. Digital Version

If you’re playing remotely or with kids online, try a digital whiteboard version where players draw their “pins” while blindfolded (eyes closed!).

6. Reverse Mode

In this twist, players guide a blindfolded teammate with voice instructions only—no touching allowed.

FAQs about the Pin the Tail on the Donkey Game

1. What is the Pin the Tail on the Donkey game?

It’s a classic party game where blindfolded players try to stick a paper tail closest to the correct spot on a donkey poster.

2. How many players do you need?

At least two, but the more, the merrier. It’s best with 5 or more people for maximum laughter.

3. Can you play indoors and outdoors?

Yes! Just make sure the area is safe and spacious enough for blindfolded movement.

4. What can I use instead of a donkey?

Anything! Cats, unicorns, sharks—whatever fits your theme. You can even draw your own.

5. How long does a round take?

Usually 5–10 minutes, depending on how many players you have. It’s quick, easy, and great for filling time between bigger activities.

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