subject: Celebrate Columbus Day With Great Party Games [print this page] Christopher Columbus opened the Americas to European exploration in 1492, when he reached what he later named San Salvador. Though there is much myth and folklore surrounding Columbus, it's at least true that his landing in America in the 15th century helped to establish a lasting connection between Europe and the Americas. Though he had originally set out to find a trade route to the East Indies, he landed in America instead, and mistakingly called the inhabitants indios (Italian for "Indians"). Though his discovery was unintended, it helped to shape our country as we know it today. On Columbus Day, it's good to have Columbus Day Party Supplies that reflect this day, and also it's a great time to play games that remind kids of what Columbus Day is all about.
Honor Columbus' achievement by introducing your guests to a game called"Columbus Says". Before starting the game, explain to the children who Christopher Columbus was and why he is important to history. Then play the game like "Simon Says," where Columbus says to do certain things (Columbus says stand on one foot, Columbus says jump up and down, etc.). If you say something without saying "Columbus says" first (e.g., turn in a circle, wave your arms), and someone performs the action, then that person is out!
Trivia games are always fun and a Christopher Columbus trivia game would be educational as well. Tell or read the children the story of Columbus' voyage and then break them up into two teams and ask questions about the story. What year did Christopher Columbus set sail? Where was he from? Who were the royal people who funded his trip? These are all good games to ask to kids to test their knowledge and get their competitive spirits up. Whichever team answers the most questions correctly wins!
Another game you can play is the spyglass relay race. For this game you will need two toy spyglasses. Before playing, explain that in Columbus' day, a spyglass what what was used to see distant objects while navigating land and sea. Use the spylasses like batons to be passed from one runner to the next in a relay style race."
Columbus Day is a national holiday that Americans observe every year, and throwing a party centered around the holiday is a great way to teach kids all about it. Just make sure you have Columbus Day Party Supplies, snacks and drinks, and of course, some fun Columbus Day Party Games!
