Every summer in Utah, we celebrate Pioneer Day on July 24th. Pioneer Day is an important day, here in Utah, and is a lot of fun. It’s a great time to pay respects to those who came before us and sacrificed so much for their faith. It’s also a neat time to learn about and enjoy some of the things that pioneers used to do in their day. My kids always look forward to this special celebration, so I thought it would be fun to share some Pioneer Day activities and crafts for kids with you!
What is Pioneer Day exactly? Well, it’s a state holiday where we celebrate when Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers came into the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. Mormons like to be referred to as “members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints”, the actual name of their church, which is centered around Christ.
17 Pioneer Day Activities and Crafts for Kids
The pioneers are a BIG part of Utah’s history. They stand as amazing examples of strength, dedication, faith, family, and courage. If you’re looking for some fun ways to teach your kids about the pioneers this Pioneer Day, look no further.
Homemade Beeswax Candles Craft
This was a homeschool project, after learning about bees. We had a blast making beeswax candles together. We actually made them around Christmas time. Afterwards, we put a gift tag on them and gave them as neighbor gifts. But, this is a perfect Pioneer Day craft project, that can be educational too!
Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
Give the kids a little lesson on how pioneers would grow and use wheat in their cooking. Then making this scrumptious whole wheat bread recipe together.
Here’s a little trick… I used white whole wheat flour. It’s still 100% whole wheat, but a different variety of wheat, that yields the lighter color (no bleach!) My kids never realize they’re eating a healthy whole wheat bread when I make it this way, which is helpful, because they tend to prefer regular white bread, as most kids do. White whole wheat has the same nutritional qualities as red wheat. Awesome!
Pioneer Taffy ~ Jamie Cooks It Up!
I love watching taffy machines in a candy store… they’re mesmerizing! I’ve never tried making homemade taffy, but it sounds super fun and like a great pioneer project to do with kids. Pulling, stretching, eating… yum!!
Tin Can Lanterns ~ This Old House
Gather the kids and a few empty soup cans, to make these fun homemade tin can lanterns. You can punch any design into the can, add a tea light, and instantly have a warm glow.
Yarn Dolls ~ The Crafty Classroom
Toys back in the pioneer days were typically very simple. These yarn dolls are a perfect example and so easy for kids to make!
Homemade Butter ~ Gwen’s Nest
Making homemade butter with kids can be a great tradition and provide for a perfect teaching moment. Gwen’s Nest shares an awesome recipe for butter and reminds us that living the pioneer life definitely wasn’t easy.
Weaving with Straws ~ One Little Project
That yarn you used for the pioneer yarn dolls… keep some on hand for this awesome weaving project for kids! Who knew that you could use straws to make a cute bracelet with yarn. Maybe… just maybe… pioneer children did this too, using sticks??
No Sew Pioneer Rag Dolls ~ The Crafting Chicks
A list of Pioneer Days activities and crafts for kids would not be complete without a tutorial for no-sew rag dolls. The Crafting Chicks have a super cute rag doll for you, with super simple instructions!
How to Make Pioneer Costumes for Kids ~ Gluesticks
Pioneer costumes are one of those things that can be passed down over the generations and just get more authentic looking with time. It’s totally worth taking the time to create your own! They can be used for pioneer games, playing pretend, trek experiences, and fun photos. Gluesticks has a great tutorial to get you on your way!
How to make homemade soap ~ Pioneer Settler
Get your hands soapy with this fun and practical activity. We’ll show you how to make homemade soap using basic ingredients, just like the pioneers did!
Pioneer Dress-Up Doll ~ Adventure in a Box
Get creative and learn about pioneer fashion! Design and dress up a paper doll in authentic pioneer clothing. A fun and educational craft for all ages.
Easy Pioneer Bonnets ~ Living in Lilliput
Dress the part! These simple pioneer bonnets are easy for kids to make and perfect for completing their pioneer look. A fun and quick craft!
Covered Wagon Craft ~ Blue Skies Ahead
Get creative and build a piece of history! This activity guides kids through making their own pioneer wagon using simple materials like popsicle sticks and paper.
Cookie Wagon Round Up ~ Garden Seeds and Honeybees
Sweeten your Pioneer Day! Kids will love constructing and decorating their own covered wagons using cookies and other tasty treats.
Kid Friendly Weaving ~ Full Circle
Learn a traditional pioneer craft! This kid-friendly weaving activity uses simple materials to introduce the basics of weaving, a vital skill for early settlers.
Like these ideas for Utah’s Pioneer Day? Check out:
- Pioneer Day Family Home Evening Lesson
- 101 Latter-day Saint Primary Activities for Boys
- 26 Outreach Ideas for Latter-day Saint Missionaries or Ward Missionaries
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