Children’s Book Week is from Saturday 16 August to Saturday 23 August 2025, with the theme “Book an Adventure!” — Australia’s national celebration of children’s literature, now in its 80th year.

Book Week is one of the most exciting events on the daycare, preschool and primary school calendar, and it’s the perfect chance to bring your favourite book characters to life. Whether you’re taking part in a school parade or just love stepping into character, we’ve put together a guide to this year’s most popular dress‑up ideas — plus where to find them (or make them!).

If your costume is store‑bought or handmade, everything you need – from the books the characters feature in to ready‑to‑wear costumes and craft supplies — is available at Westfield Knox at Kmart, Target, Lincraft and Toyworld.

Aussie icons

Celebrate homegrown stories with some of Australia’s most‑loved book characters. Thelma the Unicorn is a standout — sparkly wings and a pink horn are easy to find at Kmart. For the younger ones, Bluey and Bingo dress‑ups are playful, and available at Target, perfect for parades and preschool fun. Want to DIY a Possum Magic costume? Pick up felt, accessories and face paint from Lincraft.

Disney magic

Disney characters are a favourite for Book Week, with endless options to suit every child’s style and favourite stories. Classic princesses like Belle from Beauty and the Beast, Ariel from The Little Mermaid, and Cinderella are always popular, while adventurous heroes like Moana and Peter Pan inspire exploration and fun. For those who love magic and mischief, Tinker Bell or Elsa and Anna from Frozen are top picks, available at Best & Less. You can also find themed accessories such as crowns, wands, and shoes to complete the look at Target.

Roald Dahl’s timeless characters

From Matilda to The BFG and Fantastic Mr Fox, Roald Dahl characters are quirky and fun. A blue dress and red ribbon are all you need for Matilda — just add a book. You’ll find the pieces at Dymocks and Kmart.

Heroes and heroines

Celebrate confidence, courage, and individuality with a wide range of inspiring characters. Dress up as Wednesday Addams with her iconic black dress and braids, or choose Hermione Granger from Harry Potter for a smart and brave look. For superhero fans, classic characters like Wonder Woman, Supergirl, and Captain Marvel are top picks. You can find costume pieces and accessories at Daiso and Mini Mart, or mix and match from your own wardrobe for a creative twist.

Mythical and magical book creatures

For magical creatures like The Gruffalo, mythical unicorns or fun dinosaurs from stories like Dragons Love Tacos, check out props and outfits at Target and Kmart. Want to craft something original? Lincraft also stocks all the materials you need.

For more information on the Book Week theme, shortlisted books and events across Australia, visit the official Children’s Book Week website here.

What’s on this Book Week at Westfield Knox

Join us for Kids morning to celebrate Book Week with Bookmark decorating and a Hungry Caterpillar craft. Join us Wednesday 20th and Friday 22nd at level 2 near Asics. Simply become a member to acess join Kids mornings, it's free!! Click here to become a member.

Now is the time to create your game plan for maximising your fun in centre this Book Week. Find out what’s happening here > <insert link to your local article or What’s Happening page>