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Carnival & Booth GamesNo. 7720 · The 2026 edition

How to Play Bobbing for Apples

Dive into this classic autumn pastime with friends and family! This simple setup turns any container into a fun, messy challenge perfect for your next spooky gathering.

Medium 2 min Either

Our own summary of the original — the full post and photos live at marthastewart.com.

Why Do We Bob for Apples on Halloween?
PHOTO · MARTHASTEWART.COM

This guide outlines how to set up a traditional apple-bobbing game using everyday containers, cool water, and a dozen apples. Participants race against a two-minute clock to retrieve fruit using only their mouths, with the fastest retriever declared the winner.

You'll need

Directions

  1. Grab a large container like a plastic bin, a sturdy bucket, or even a big cooler to serve as your game station.
  2. Pour in enough cool water to fill the container more than halfway.
  3. Drop in roughly twelve apples, or use enough fruit to nearly fill the container completely for a tougher challenge.
  4. Give each participant a two-minute window to retrieve a fruit.
  5. Players must keep their hands tucked behind their backs while trying to grab an apple with their teeth.
  6. The first person to successfully secure an apple within the time limit claims victory!

Open the original on marthastewart.com