The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

Red light/green light

The game "Red light; Green light" was very much like the "Mr.
Fox" game previously described. The object of the game, however,
was to become "It" or the traffic light. One player was elected to
become "It." This player stood a select distance from the other
players with his/her back to the players. Players also lined up in
a straight line behind it.

At this point "It" would say "Greenlight." Players had to advance
toward the traffic light or "It" until "It" shouted "Redlight."
"It" would also look over his/her shoulder to see if anyone is
moving. Anyone who gets caught in motion is out.

The person who makes it to tag "It" without being caught in motion
became the traffic light.

The game is repeated with a new "It."

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT