Swimming Game: Marco Polo
Both children and adults can test their ability to swim without being able to see by playing the game Marco Polo. In this water game, one person is "it." This person must keep his eyes closed or wear a blindfold that will not fall off while he is in the water. If you do not have a blindfold that will work, consider pulling a swimming cap down over the eyes. The person who is "it" swims around the pool and calls out "Marco," and the remaining players have to respond with "Polo." The person who is "it" swims around and tries to catch them based on the sound of their voices.
Pinatas
Possibly originating in China but now popular in Spanish-speaking countries, pinatas are party favors that allow guests to test their skill at hitting an object while blindfolded. Hang a pinata either in a tree branch or from another high location. Once blindfolded, party guests can take turns swinging a bat at the pinata to see if they can hit and break it. When the pinata is broken, treats will spill out for all the event's attendees to enjoy.
Pin-the-Object
Whether for children or adults, a pin-the-object game can be adapted for nearly any situation. At children's birthday parties, little ones can play the traditional Pin the Tail on the Donkey, or parents can adapt the game to accommodate a child's favorite character. Adults can play these games at work functions, baby showers or bridal showers. For example, a work function can include printing off a large picture of a co-worker's portrait from an identification badge and attempting to pin on a birthday hat. Create a baby shower version by having a pin-the-baby game. Cut out figures of babies in swaddling blankets and have guests attempt to pin them so they hang from a stork's beak. Brides-to-be can be the center of attention during a pin-the-veil on the bride game for bridal showers. Guests can take turns attempting to pin paper veils on a large picture of the bride-to-be. When playing a pin-the-object game, opt to use tape instead of push pins or thumb tacks.
Team-Building Exercises
Create a sense of trust and honesty during team-building exercises by incorporating blindfolds into the games. One example is to have a simple obstacle course. Instruct your group members to pair up into teams of two. Each team can designate one member to be blindfolded and one to lead. All of the teams can begin the course at the same time, with the duo that finishes first being the winner. This game requires trust and builds a team spirit, as the lead member must guide the blindfolded member.