Columbus Day can be an opportunity for families to spend time together, explore history, and create fun memories with children. While communities observe the holiday in different ways—and some recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead—it can be a wonderful occasion to introduce children to history through age-appropriate activities, storytelling, creativity, and play.
At the heart of any children's celebration is imagination, and that's where our costumed characters can help make the day extra special!
Make History Come Alive
Children often connect with history best when they can see, hear, and participate in a story. Instead of simply reading about historical events, create an interactive experience where kids can become explorers for the day.
Set up an "exploration station" with maps, toy telescopes, simple crafts, and treasure-hunt clues. Children can work together to follow a map, discover hidden surprises, and learn about what life was like for people during different periods of history.
Our costumed characters can join the adventure, encouraging children to use their imaginations while participating in games and activities.
Meet a Favorite Costumed Character
Imagine the excitement when a favorite princess, superhero, pirate, explorer, or other colorful character arrives at your celebration!
Costumed characters can transform an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable experience. They can greet the children, pose for pictures, lead age-appropriate games, participate in a treasure hunt, or simply spend time making each child feel like part of the adventure.
A character appearance can also provide a fun way for children to practice teamwork, creativity, and storytelling.
Plan an Exploration-Themed Party
Turn your Columbus Day gathering into an exciting adventure with simple activities such as:
- Treasure Hunt: Hide small prizes and create a kid-friendly map with clues.
- Decorate a Telescope: Let children make pretend telescopes from paper tubes and decorate them with stickers and markers.
- Create a Map: Give each child paper and crayons to design their own imaginary world.
- Explorer Relay: Organize simple team games that encourage movement and cooperation.
- Story Time: Share an age-appropriate story about exploration, travel, and the many peoples and cultures connected to the history being discussed.
- Photo Station: Set up a festive backdrop where children can take pictures with their favorite costumed character.
Include Everyone in the Celebration
For families who celebrate Columbus Day, the holiday can also be an opportunity to encourage children to learn that history can be viewed from different perspectives. You might introduce age-appropriate books or activities about Native peoples, explorers, geography, and the many cultures that shaped North American history.
Keeping the conversation curious and respectful can help children understand that learning about history means exploring different experiences and perspectives.
Make It a Day to Remember
Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering, planning a school or community event, or simply enjoying a family celebration, adding a costumed character can bring an extra dose of excitement to the day.
From a heroic superhero to a magical princess or adventurous explorer, our characters are ready to help children laugh, play, imagine, and create memories together.
This Columbus Day, make room for adventure, imagination, and family fun—and let the celebration begin!