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Marshmallow Challenge
Build the tallest freestanding tower that can hold a marshmallow on top—within 20 minutes.
6+ Players
In-Person
High Energy
How to Play
- 1Form teams of 3–5.
- 2Provide 20 sticks of spaghetti, 3 ft tape, 3 ft string, and 1 marshmallow.
- 3Teams have 20 minutes to build; measure height to declare a winner.
Materials Needed
- Dry spaghetti
- Tape
- String
- Marshmallow
- Measuring tape
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
"You have 20 minutes to build the tallest freestanding tower that holds a marshmallow. Prototype early; test often."
Closing Script:
"What helped—iteration, triangles, or early marshmallow tests? Capture one team habit to bring to projects."
Why This Works
It rewards prototyping and quick feedback over planning. Teams practice experimentation, role clarity, and time‑boxed collaboration.
Best For
- Team offsites
- Innovation workshops
- New team kickoffs
Important Notes
- Mind safety with broken pasta and tape allergies
- Discourage over‑planning; encourage early testing
- Clear measurement and rules up front