DIY whack-a-mole ideas—perfect for festivals and school fairs!

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I’ve been playing the Electone since I was six, mainly performing Disney music, anime songs, and music from dramas and films. I post performance videos on YouTube and social media, and I also give concerts. Building on my Electone experience, I took up synthesizer and piano during my student years and performed at school-sponsored events. As a writer, I’ve covered not only music-related topics but a wide range of genres, so I hope to draw on my experience to deliver articles that make readers think, “I want to try that!” or “I want to listen to that!”
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

Whack-a-mole is one of the most popular games among kids at festivals and arcades! It’s a simple pastime where you hit moles popping out of holes with a hammer, but it’s surprisingly addictive! In this article, we’ll introduce DIY whack-a-mole ideas.

We’ve gathered a variety of concepts, from easy-to-make versions using cardboard and paper cups, to giant whack-a-mole setups perfect for school festivals and other large events, and even whack-a-mole ideas for pets.

If you’re planning an event attraction or looking for play equipment for children, be sure to use this as a reference!

Handmade whack-a-mole ideas. Perfect for festivals and school fairs! (21–30)

Whack-a-mole with a nail gun

Perfect for wrist exercises! How about playing a whack-a-mole game that feels just like hammering nails? It’s super easy to make.

Cut several holes in a piece of cardboard that are slightly smaller than a plastic bottle’s diameter, then add notches around each hole to make a jagged edge.

Next, make a hammer using a paper cup and a plastic wrap tube, and decorate the plastic bottles—then you’re done! The sensation of hitting the bottles through the holes with the hammer is sure to be addictive.

It’s also great that you can make it with everyday recyclables.

Give it a try and have fun!

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Pop-up Whack-a-Mole

Moles pop out! Here’s a recommended whack-a-mole for anyone looking for a unique, excitement-packed version.

This whack-a-mole, made from cardboard, has lever-like mechanisms on the back, and when you operate the levers, the moles peek out.

And get this—if you press all the levers, all the moles pop out and float in midair! You can just picture the kids going wild at this unexpected twist.

This item is sure to be a huge hit—if you’re intrigued, give making it a try!

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In conclusion

We introduced some DIY ideas for a whack-a-mole game.

Did you find any ideas that made you think, “I could make this!” or “I want to try this design!”? Whack-a-mole is sure to be a hit not only as a toy to play with at home, but also at festival days in childcare facilities and in game corners at school festivals.

Give it a try and have fun playing together!