MISSION, KS -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 05/23/11 -- (Family Features) With a three-day weekend ahead, it's time to start brainstorming entertainment options for that inevitable moment when someone asks "what's next?" Whether going out of town for a fun weekend away, or opting for a budget-friendly, relaxing weekend at home, games are a great option to have on hand to keep everyone in the family happy and entertained.

With millions of Americans planning to take to the road and sky for travel this year, entertainment on the go has become an essential part of trip planning. Before closing the trunk or zipping up the carry-on bag, make sure to include a few family-friendly games, vacation essentials that will provide hours of fun no matter how far from home you may be. In addition to your electronic devices, bring games that will never run out of battery power and will also get the family talking and interacting with each other. Hasbro's Fun on the Run line of games, compact versions of favorites such as Battleship and Connect 4, are perfect for play en route to your destination, and can easily be carried in a backpack for fun during any unexpected downtime.

If you're heading to the beach, toss a deck of cards in your bag. Or, challenge your friends and family with a new card game, such as Ratuki, for some mid-afternoon fun in the sun. This fast-paced card game is a free-for-all race, which challenges players to be cheetah fast as they quickly form piles of numbered cards. It's easy to play, quick to set up and fun for all ages.

For those spending the long weekend at home, you're not alone. According to a recent survey conducted by Kelton Research, approximately three in five Americans have reduced their entertainment and recreation expenditures in the last three months.* If you're planning a "staycation," enjoy the weekend in your own backyard with a potluck-style neighborhood cookout. Partygoers of all ages can enjoy the summer weather and play active games like Bop-It!, capture the flag or Twister.

No need to fear if a rainstorm sweeps through and ruins your outdoor plans. Break into teams for a fun Family Game Night, or day, inside. Keep things exciting by breaking into teams so the kids can face off against the adults in a game of Cranium, or the girls can challenge the boys in a round of Guesstures. Keep the tournament fun going all weekend long by keeping track of each day's scores on a giant leader board.

For more Family Game Night tips, game recommendations and special offers, visit Facebook.com/familygamenight.

*This survey was conducted via an online survey of and email invitation to a nonrandom but demographically representative sample of 1,000 Americans ages 18 and over between April 4th and April 6th, 2011.

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Wendy MacDonald

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1-888-824-3337 ext. 235

http://editors.familyfeatures.com

Source: Hasbro Toys

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