Bookweek 2026

Book Week 2026: Costume Ideas, Swaps & Ways to Keep It Fun (Without Breaking the Bank)

Book Week is back — and this year, the stories are coming to life! From childcare centres and kindergartens to ELCs and schools, families across Adelaide will soon be getting ready for one of the most exciting (and sometimes slightly stressful!) parts of the school year: Book Week dress-up day.

The 2026 Book Week theme is “Symphony of Stories”, giving little readers plenty of inspiration to get creative. You can dress in a way that celebrates the theme or, as always, simply choose a favourite character from a much-loved book. Because really, who doesn’t love seeing a whole school full of book characters?

What does “Symphony of Stories” mean? Think of books as music — every story has its own characters, adventures, moods and memorable moments that come together to create something special.But don’t feel like you need to create an elaborate costume that belongs on a movie set! A favourite book character is always a great choice, and sometimes the simplest costumes are the most fun. A pair of pyjamas, a homemade hat, some face paint or a few clever accessories can be all you need to bring a character to life.

Let’s talk about Book Week costumes… For some families, Book Week is a creative challenge they absolutely love. For others… “Where am I supposed to find a costume by next Friday?” If you’re like me and not someone who can casually whip up a costume with a sewing machine, cardboard and a hot glue gun, you’re definitely not alone. Buying a costume can be the easiest option, but it can also get expensive — especially when your child grows out of it or decides they’re completely over that character five minutes after Book Week is finished.

So before you buy something brand new, here are a few ways to make Book Week a little easier (and kinder on the budget).

Try a Book Week Costume Swap: This is an idea we LOVE! Some Adelaide libraries are getting involved in the Book Week fun with costume swap initiatives. Tea Tree Gully Library, for example, is running a Book Week costume swap, giving families the chance to pass on costumes that are no longer needed and pick up something new-to-you. Have a costume sitting at home that your child has outgrown or simply doesn’t want to wear again? Take it along, swap it and give it another life! It’s a win for your wallet, a win for another family and a great way to keep perfectly good costumes out of landfill. For more information visit the Tea Tree Gully Page here. Tip: Check with your local library to see if they are running a costume swap or Book Week activity this year, as dates and requirements can vary.

Image thanks to City of Tea Tree Gully.

Don’t forget the op shops: Op shops can be absolute GOLD for Book Week costumes. Places like Savers are worth a browse for second-hand clothing, accessories and props that can be turned into a character costume without spending a fortune. Savers also often has a dedicated pre-loved costume section, so you might just find exactly what you’re looking for. And don’t underestimate the power of a simple outfit + accessories. A colourful shirt, suspenders, hat, bow tie, tutu or pair of glasses can completely transform a costume.

Need something quick and easy? If you’re officially in the “I need a costume and I need it yesterday” camp, don’t panic. Kmart and BIG W usually have a generous range of children’s costumes and accessories, making them handy options when you need something simple and ready to go. But before you buy, have a quick look around the house first. You might already have half the costume hiding in a dress-up box!

As a primary school teacher and a mum, I have seen it all and honestly someimes the simple things are the most effective. You don’t need to be Pinterest-perfect to make something fun. Try:

The book itself – dress in the colours or style of a favourite book cover.

One key accessory – a hat, cape, glasses, ears or bow can do a lot of the work.

Raid the wardrobe – start with clothes you already own and build from there.

Face paint – sometimes a little face paint is all you need.

Think outside the character – could your child dress as an object, animal or setting from their favourite story?

And remember, Book Week is about celebrating books and reading — not winning a costume competition.