Learning how to Play Quidditch was at the top of Cash’s list when it came to his birthday party planning. There was no doubt in his mind that there would in fact be a Quidditch Match amongst all his friends. And, no less, it would be a Slytherin vs. Ravenclaw showdown. These are his two favorite houses that he’s been bouncing between for the last 5 years. He’s repeatedly testing/sorting into Ravenclaw these days, but we’ll continue to see! Regardless of his current house, the Quidditch Pitch was set and the Chasers were afoot.

How to Play Quidditch

Quidditch is a fun and active game that can be played by children of all ages. Playing Quidditch with kids can be an exciting and memorable experience. The pictures we got, and the memories made will live rent free in my head forever, thanks to this party! Here is a step-by-step guide to playing Quidditch with kids.

Step 1: Gather Equipment

To play Quidditch, you will need a few basic pieces of equipment. We did not play our game with a Golden Snitch (but you can) because I didn’t want one kid running around at the birthday party, stuck in a role. Cash didn’t want to do it, or I would have had it be him.

Here is what I used:

1 Quaffle -a ball that is about the size of a volleyball

2 Bludgers -smaller balls

2 Large Circle Goals (Hula Hoops)

4 Net Goals (Bug Nets)

Pitch Zone (I used Balloon Stakes)

You will also need broomsticks (pool noodles), one for each player.

I got everything from Dollar Tree!

Step 2: Divide the Players

Divide the players into two teams. Each team should have seven players, including a Keeper, three Chasers, and two Beaters. The Keeper guards the goalposts, the Chasers try to score points by throwing the Quaffle through the goalposts, the Beaters try to knock players out of the game by hitting them with the Bludgers. You can divide up the Chasers and Beaters how you see fit with the kids you have. We played several rounds with a mix of each.

Step 3: Start the Game

To start the game, I put the Quaffle in the center of the Pitch and had all players line up in their respective Pitch Zones. Once everyone was in their zone, I blew a whistle and the game begins. Players ran to the center, towards the balls just like you do in dodge bal. Then, the players try to score points by throwing the Quaffle through the goalposts.

We ended rounds when a point was scored or if the ball went out of bounds we did a “Re-Pitch” where I centered all the balls back on the middle line and then had players line up in Pitch (End) Zones.

Step 4: Play Safely

It is important to play Quidditch safely. Players should wear appropriate clothing and shoes and should avoid hitting other players with their broomsticks. Players should also avoid rough play and should follow the rules of the game. We played it in the sprinklers, in swimsuits and sandals and it did get rough. Towards the end, the sprinklers made it slippery, and our kids were getting aggressive. Mine the most of all!

Playing Quidditch with kids can be a fun and exciting experience. By following these steps, you can ensure that the game is played safely and that all players have a great time. I stand by my decision to eliminate the Snitch and singling out one person. We had plenty of fun without that piece.

I have a printable available in my Etsy Shop with a very simplified version of these rules and guidelines that you can post during your party. We referenced it a lot and I’m glad I had it there front and center! A printable Set of rules will help your Quidditch Referees ensure a fun and safe game for all players.