Bocce Ball is a fun, social outdoor game thatâs easy to learn but challenging to master. Whether youâre at the park, beach, or your backyard, bocce is perfect for all ages. Hereâs everything you need to know about setting up, playing, and keeping score like a pro.
Step 1: Gather the Equipment
To play bocce, youâll need:
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1 pallino (small target ball)
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8 bocce balls (4 of one color and 4 of another)
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A flat playing surface like grass, sand, or a bocce court
Each team or player uses 4 balls of the same color. The goal is to throw your balls as close to the pallino as possible.
Tip: If youâre serious about playing, you can buy a bocce set that includes the pallino, balls, and a measuring tool.
Step 2: Set Up the Court
A regulation bocce court is about 76 feet long and 10 feet wide, but for casual play, you can adjust the size to fit your space.
Mark two foul lines â one at each end â where players must throw from.
Tip: If youâre playing on grass or sand, use cones, tape, or chalk to outline the play area.
Step 3: Start the Game
Flip a coin to decide who goes first.
The starting player throws the pallino (target ball) into the court, landing it around the middle area.
Then, the same player throws one of their bocce balls, trying to get it as close to the pallino as possible.
Tip: Keep the pallino within the playing area and at least a few feet away from the boundaries.
Step 4: Take Turns Throwing Bocce Balls
After the first throw, the other team takes their turn. The team whose ball is farthest from the pallino always throws next, continuing until all 8 balls have been thrown.
You can roll, toss, or bounce the ball, as long as it stays within bounds.
Tip: Players can aim to hit the pallino or knock opponentsâ balls away strategically.
Step 5: Scoring the Round
Once all balls are thrown, measure which teamâs ball is closest to the pallino. That team scores 1 point for each ball thatâs closer than the opponentâs nearest ball.
Example: If Team Red has two balls closer than Team Greenâs nearest ball, Red scores 2 points.
Games are typically played to 12 or 16 points.
Tip: Use a measuring tape or string to confirm close calls fairly.
Step 6: Keep Playing and Rotate Throws
After scoring, the next round starts from the opposite side of the court. The winning team from the previous round throws the pallino first.
Keep playing until one team reaches the winning score.
Tip: Rotate players and sides for a fair and fun game!
â Final Thoughts
Bocce Ball is simple to learn but offers endless fun and strategy. Whether youâre playing casually or competitively, itâs a great way to connect with friends outdoors. All you need is a little space, a set of balls, and a friendly spirit of competition!
