Book An Adventure! Ideas for 2025
Book An Adventure Dress Up Ideas
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Get ready for an epic adventure in 2025!
What is the theme for 2025?
The “Book an Adventure!” theme invites readers to set off on thrilling journeys through the magical worlds of their favourite stories. This year is all about celebrating the boundless possibilities that books bring. Tales of bravery, mystery, and discovery remind us of the wonder within the pages of every book.
Adventure themed stories spark the imagination, captivate hearts, and inspire curiosity. Think of dashing knights in fairytale kingdoms, fearless explorers traversing jungles, or even astronauts venturing into the vast unknown of space.
Our blog post is your one-stop guide to making this year’s event unforgettable. It’s packed with ideas for everyone, from kids ready to adventure around the playground as their favourite characters, to teachers looking for engaging outfits that spark adventure in the classroom.
Adventure awaits those who dare to read on! Are you ready?
Let’s go!
Discover Fairytales Perfect for Book Week Adventures
“To live will be an awfully big adventure.”
JM Barrie – Peter Pan
Every great adventure begins with the turn of a page! This year, bring your favourite adventurers to life with our enchanting collection of storybook costumes.
Skip through the forest in a Little Red Riding Hood costume and head to grandmother’s house in a vibrant red cloak. Channel adventurous Disney Princesses like Rapunzel with her flowing golden hair, Cinderella in her sparkling glass slippers, the book loving Belle from Beauty and the Beast, or perhaps, Merida, the brave Scottish princess ready to conquer her destiny. We also can’t forget the adventurous spirit of Peter Pan, who’s always ready to fly off to Neverland!
For some frosty fun, pair up as Elsa and Anna, and don’t forget Olaf and Kristoff to complete an adventurous group costume for teachers. Another option is the practically perfect in every way, Mary Poppins. Or you could wriggle into the vibrant greens and reds a Hungry Caterpillar costume, with details that’ll make you feel like you crawled straight out of Eric Carle’s classic storybook. You could even step into the world of The Gruffalo, with a costume that captures every detail of Julia Donaldson’s beloved creature.
Go on Epic Adventures with Heroes & Villains
“I choose to run towards my problems, and not away from them. Because that’s what heroes do,”
Thor - Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
Get ready to soar, swing, or scheme your way into your parade! Whether you’re saving the day or plotting your next heist, our adventurous Heroes & Villains Book Week costumes will make you the star of the classroom (or the teacher’s lounge!).
Will you choose to be the friendly neighbourhood Spiderman, scaling imaginary skyscrapers? Or take on the persona of Superman, with a bright red cape flowing behind as you stand for truth and justice? Maybe Batman is more your style, lurk in the shadows as the mysterious protector of Gotham. For fans of pure power and genius, suit up as Iron Man or traverse the galaxy with Rocket Raccoon and Star-Lord as a Guardian.
Remember it's not just about heroes! For those who love the darker side, you can cause some chaos in the playground dressed as Harley Quinn or The Joker. From The Incredibles to the never ending battle between Marvel and DC Comics, our dynamic range has something for every hero, villain, and devoted teacher who wants to join in on all the adventurous fun.
Book an Adventure with TV & Movie Characters
“See the Line where the sky meets the sea, it calls me. And no-one knows, how far I’ll go”
Moana - Moana (2016)
Immerse yourself in a world of adventure with our collection of TV and Movie Character costumes!
Whether you dream of voyaging across the playground in a Disney, Moana costume or want to join the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to learn some cool moves and have a giant slice of pizza, we have something for everyone, we even have Stitch and Angel onesies.
You have the choice of the Dark Side or the Light Side with our range of Star Wars costumes. We have Jedi Robes, Darth Vader costumes and so much more! If you want something a bit more fun, a Minion, with a cheeky grin and giant goggles, is a hilarious option for kids and teachers alike. The little ones can even head all the way to Adventure Bay with our range of Paw Patrol outfits. Those wanting a spooky twist can dress as a member of The Addams Family, like Wednesday Addams of her brother Pugsley! You can even unmask villains in true Mystery Inc fashion with our range of Scooby-Doo costumes.
Wild and Adventurous Animals
“When you see someone putting on his Big Boots, you can be pretty sure that an adventure is going to happen.”
A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
Get ready for a wild adventure with our range of animal-themed costumes that’ll bring every jungle, farmyard, and ocean adventure to life!
Transform into a mighty wolf, ready to huff and puff all day long, or perhaps a cheeky lion, the king of the jungle, with a flowing golden mane. Swim into your book parade as a sleek shark, or a majestic octopus. For those who love a laugh, a clucky chicken costume will turn heads, or head straight to the farm and dress as a baa-eautiful sheep.
Venture into the amazing animal kingdom wearing a classic kangaroo costume complete with a pouch, or snap up attention as a fierce crocodile with a toothy grin. Dinosaur enthusiasts can stomp and roar as a prehistoric predator, while our range of children’s animal costumes and adults animal onesies ensure everyone can find the perfect adventurous animal costume.
Myths & Legends Perfect for an Adventure
“Not all those who wander are lost.”
J. R. R. Tolkien.
A world of magic, mischief, and legendary adventures awaits anyone who dresses in a mythical themed costume for Book Week.
Sprinkle some pixie dust through the enchanted forest when you transform into a Fairy. Or perhaps you’d prefer a majestic Unicorn costume, the most enchanting and magical creature of them all. If under the sea is where you want to be, a mermaid like Princess Ariel might be a great option? What about a fearsome Dragon, roaring into the parade with the noble King Arthur and his wizard friend Merlin right by his side? Speaking of Medieval Times, Robin Hood, the outlaw who fights for justice in Sherwood Forest might be a great adventurous character? And who could resist wearing a Hobbit costume and setting off on an epic adventure through Middle-earth? We also can’t forget larger-than-life characters like the elusive Bigfoot, with a costume that’s sure to make your adventure one to remember!
Out-of-This-World Costumes for Space Adventures
“To Infinity, And Beyond!”
Buzz Lightyear - Toy Story (1995)
Are you ready for your next mission? Explore uncharted galaxies in space-inspired costumes that’ll make every young adventurer or teacher eager to join in on the adventure theme fun, the best dressed at the book parade.
Space cadets can suit up for interstellar exploration with our incredible range of Astronaut costumes, complete with shiny helmets and NASA patches. For kids and adults who dream of finding intelligent life in the classroom, our Buzz Lightyear costumes bring the beloved Toy Story space ranger to life.
With metallic pink details and silver boot covers, our Barbie Astronaut costume launches girl power into orbit. And for our out of this world space adventurers, there’s our incredible range of alien costumes that have just the right amount of “we come in peace” charm.
Pirates Fit for Every Swashbuckling Adventure
“The seas might be rough, but I’m the Captain! No matter how difficult, I will always prevail.”
Captain Jack Sparrow - Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
Ahoy, mateys! Set sail on your next adventure with our range of Book Week Pirate Costumes for kids and teachers!
Transform into a cunning pirate, decked out with a pirate eye-patch, and striped shirt, ready to scour the seas for hidden treasures. Wield a sword as the fearsome Captain Hook during your book parade, outsmart that pesky crocodile and keep your other hand safe from harm. Or transform into the hilarious Captain Jack Sparrow, with his unmistakable braided wig and rugged pirate hat and costume. The beloved Captain Feathersword is also an option for little adventurers! From treasure hunts to high-seas escapades, there’s a pirate costume ready for every adventure. Our range will have everyone ready to hoist the Jolly Roger and conquer in adventurous style!
Yeehaw! Adventure-Ready Cowboys & Cowgirls
“Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway!”
Thomas Dunson - John Wayne - Red River (1948)
Get ready to saddle up, partner! Transform your parade into a wild adventure with our Cowboy & Cowgirl Book Week Costumes.
From the dusty trails of the Wild West to the glamorous rodeo stage, these adventure costumes will have kids and teachers stepping straight into the pages of an epic frontier story. Set the stage as a fearless cowboy with your trusty cowboy hat, ready to tame the wild west with a lasso in hand. Gallop into the role of the Cowgirl, perfect for any little girl who dreams of riding into a wild west adventure. You could also step into the boots of everyone’s favourite toy cowboy, Sheriff Woody. Cowgirl Barbie is also ready to bring true star power to your parade.
Adventure Awaits with Harry Potter
“And now, Harry, let us step out into the night and pursue that flighty temptress, adventure.”
JK Rowling – Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Get your wands ready! It’s time for an adventure with Harry Potter and all his magical friends (and foes)!
Become the boy who lived and wear your very own Harry Potter costume, or channel the brilliance of Hermione, with a classic Gryffindor robe. Slip into a Slytherin robe or perhaps you were sorted into a Hogwarts House, with the loyal Hufflepuffs, or the witty Ravenclaws? We can’t forget the fearless professors like McGonagall or Dumbledore. You can even push the boundaries of normal with Luna Lovegood’s quirky style or step into the shoes of the lovable giant, Hagrid. There’s even the option for an adventure with magical creatures if you wear a Newt Scamander costume. And for those with a taste for the dark arts, why not become the infamous Lord Voldemort?
Adventures Start with Dr. Seuss
“OH! THE PLACES YOU’LL GO! You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights! You’ll join the high fliers who soar to high heights.”
Dr Seuss – Oh, the Places You’ll Go
Step into Dr. Suess’s world where imagination knows no bounds and adventure leaps off of every page!
With his iconic red-and-white striped hat and bow tie, The Cat in the Hat is a fantastic option for kids and teachers alike. If you’re feeling a little bit cheeky and prefer to pair up with a friend, the whirlwind duo costume, Thing One and Thing Two, will cause playful chaos wherever they go. The Grinch, with his undeniable charm and big heart, is a fantastic, adventurous character as well. Or you could step into the shoes of Sam I Am, complete with his iconic green eggs and ham, ready to charm everyone into trying something new and adventurous?
Willy Wonka for Every Adventurer!
“But there was one other thing that the grown-ups also knew, and it was this: that however small the chance might be of striking lucky, the chance is there. The chance had to be there.”
Roald Dahl - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Get your Golden Tickets ready. We’re going on an adventure to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory!
Transform into the master of sweet surprises, in a Willy Wonka book week costume, with a vibrant purple jacket and iconic top hat. Or perhaps you’re destined to be one of the golden ticket kids? Make a splash at your event as the adventurous Charlie Bucket with his winning chocolate bar, or the bubbly Violet Beauregarde. Just be careful with how much gum you chew! Don’t forget the bratty Veruca Salt, just make sure you are on your best behaviour. The chocolate-loving Augustus Gloop is also a great option. Make sure you don’t fall into any chocolate rivers, though. For the ultimate touch of Wonka magic, why not become the prize everyone dreams of winning, in one of our shimmering Golden Ticket costumes? Our Oompa Loompa costumes for kids and teachers will also bring some fun and adventure to your parade.
Adventure Down the Yellow Brick Road with Our Wizard of Oz Ideas
“If we walk far enough,” says Dorothy, “we shall sometime come to someplace.”
L. Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Lions, and tigers, and bears, oh my! Are you ready for a real adventure? We’re going to the Wonderful Land of Oz!
Get your ruby slippers on, Toto by your side and follow the Yellow Brick Road in Dorothy’s gingham dress. Want to showcase courage, heart, or brains? The Cowardly Lion, Tinman, and Scarecrow are a fantastic choice for adventurous costumes. For anyone searching for a bit of magic, the fabulous Glinda, with her pink sparkling gown and crown, will bring some spellbinding magic to your event. If wickedness is more your style, bring a wickedly green twist as Elphaba or the Wicked Witch of the West, with your trusty Winged Monkey right by your side. You can cause chaos wherever you go!
Join the Fun! Book an Adventure as Where’s Wally
“It’s not about finding Waldo, it’s about the journey that leads you to him.”
Unknown
Picture this: A marvellous adventure through the pages, searching for the elusive Where's Wally for book week!
Spot the beloved red-and-white-striped Wally at your parade, complete with his signature beanie and round glasses. Or bring Wenda, Wally’s clever companion, to life with her red and white striped dress. If your mischief-maker, Odlaw, Wally’s mischievous nemesis, in his sinister yellow-and-black stripes is a fantastic option for an easy costume!
Bring Roald Dahl’s Adventurous Characters to Life
“The books transported her into new worlds and introduced her to amazing people who lived exciting lives. She went on olden-day sailing ships with Joseph Conrad. She went to Africa with Ernest Hemingway and to India with Rudyard Kipling. She travelled all over the world while sitting in her little room in an English village.”
Roald Dahl – Matilda
A little bit of magic can take you on a marvellous adventure, and that’s what you’ll get when you step into the pages of Roald Dahl’s beloved storybooks.
Transform into the bright bookworm, Matilda Wormwood, who has a love for reading and signature red ribbon in her hair. Sneak about as the dapper Fantastic Mr Fox, with a sly grin and mischief on his mind. Teachers, Miss Trunchbull is always a great dress up idea and we’re sure there’ll be a fantastic adventure in your classroom dressed as the Headmistress of Crunchem Hall.
Tower high as the dream-catching BFG or his loyal and curious friend Sophie. If you want to send some shivers down the spines of your classmates (or students), The Grand High Witch and her magic powers might be for you. The hilariously horrid Mr Twit and Mrs Twit, with their scraggly unkept looks, are also sure to impress at the book parade. We can’t forget the Enormous Crocodile, scheming around the classroom trying to fill his tummy or James and the Giant Peach, with all his insect friends.
Adventures Begin with the Perfect Alice in Wonderland Costume
“If you don’t know where you want to go, then it doesn’t matter which path you take.”
Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland
There’s no adventure like a Wonderland adventure and your book parade is the perfect time to fall down a rabbit hole!
If you're looking for adventurous character ideas, the timeless grace of an Alice in Wonderland costume, whose blue dress and white apron make for an instantly recognisable outfit, is a great place to start. Or perhaps you’d prefer the maddening charm of The Mad Hatter, with a mismatched costume, and an endless supply of tea. Command the classroom and scream ‘off with your head’ at your classmates wearing a Queen of Hearts costume. Or make sure no-one is late for the parade, dressed as The White rabbit, pocket watch and all! Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum are also the perfect duo costume. We all know they’d love to be centre stage at an event!
Ninjas to Bring Adventurous Stories to Life
“A ninja is one who can use everything around him to trick his enemies. He and fast and he is friendly to his environment. A ninja is honest and good. His mind, body, and spirit are one. He has self-control. He has discipline. A ninja loves nature, uh, ‘cause he is part of nature. A ninja never fights a battle if he cannot win.”
Colt, Rocky & Tum Tum - 3 Ninjas (1992)
Step out of the shadows and into adventure when you transform into the ultimate master of stealth in a Ninja costume for book week 2025!
Designed with incredible details, our range of ninja costumes features a mix of slick black tunics, adorned with dragon motifs, red belts and hoods that create the perfect air of mystery. Inspired by warriors, our range will have the whole classroom wanting to hear ninja stories and, of course, see all the ninja moves as well!
Game On! Costumes Perfect for Adventure Seekers
“There’s a huge universe out there. With a lot of galaxies.”
Princess Peach – Super Mario Bros
A world of pixelated landscapes, epic adventures and unforgettable battles awaits anyone who chooses an adventure themed gaming character costume for book week!
Adventure to the Mushroom Kingdom as Super Mario or his clumsy brother Luigi, and get ready save Princess Peach from that pesky bad guy, Bowser. If you want to feel like a champion trainer, Ash Ketchum and his many Pokémon, have adventures every time they battle. Love the fast lane? Sonic the Hedgehog is perfect for you. Race through the school hallways and get to recess first!
Build a blocky masterpiece as a Minecraft explorer, battle mysterious foes in a Halo suit, or show off your Fortnite moves as your favourite Fortnite character. Suit up as an Among Us crewmate in one of our inflatable costumes or scare up some fun with creepy creations from Five Nights at Freddy’s.
Adventure-Approved! Occupations for Book Week
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Eleanor Roosevelt
Save the day or explore the unknown with our adventurous range of Occupation Costumes for Book Week!
Unleash the adventurer within as an Outback Hunter, complete with a cool safari suit, for kids, and teachers alike and uncover hidden treasures and wild animals in the Aussie bush. Take to the skies as a fearless member of the Airforce, bravely flying around the world or wear an Army uniform that captures strength and courage with every step you take.
Suit up as a doctor or nurse, where every day is a fresh adventure, saving lives. For the seafaring adventurers, a sailor costume is perfect for navigating imaginary oceans. Protect the streets in the Police uniform or race to put out imaginary fires as a fireman, ready to save the day!
Frequently Asked Book Week Questions
What is Book Week?
It's an annual celebration of reading and children’s literature throughout schools in Australia. It’s an exciting time of year where students and teachers come together by dressing up as beloved characters from books.
It was created by the Children’s Book Council of Australia and is celebrating 80 years in 2025. With this years incredible theme ‘Book an Adventure,’ we are sure that this year will be one to remember!
What date is it in 2025?
Mark your calendars!
It will take place in Term 3, running from Saturday the 16th August to Saturday, the 23rd August. This gives everyone the chance to get creative and prepare their standout costumes for this this years adventurous celebration.
What are some easy characters to dress up as?
Short on time or crafting skills? No worries! Here are our favourite iconic characters you can easily dress up as with minimal effort:
Where’s Wally – All you need is a red-and-white striped top, round glasses, and a beanie.
The Cat in the Hat – Pair a black outfit with a red bow and striped hat, and you’ll be Dr Seuss-ready!
What are the most popular characters?
There’s always fierce competition when it comes to dressing up! Some long time favourites include characters from classic children’s books such as:
Harry Potter or Hermione Granger from Harry Potter
Matilda from Roald Dahl’s Matilda
Alice or The Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland
Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz
Willy Wonka from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
No matter which character you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and bring the magic of stories to life!
Make this year unforgettable and ensure your story doesn’t end when the last page is turned. Book your next adventure with Heaven Costumes today!
