The start of the school year is a time for growth, challenge, and discovery—and it’s the perfect moment to remind your Cub Scout why Scouting matters. This year, make every school day an opportunity to apply the skills they’ve learned in the program and to take on new adventures beyond the classroom. Whether you’re new to Scouting or a returning family, here’s a look at the activities that make each season exciting—and how your Scout can make the most of them.

• September/October – Rocket Launch: Nothing beats the thrill of building and launching your own rocket. It’s a favorite fall kick-off that combines STEM and outdoor fun.

• December – Pinewood Derby Car Building: Scouts can start designing and building. This is a great time for parent-child creativity at home.

• January – Pinewood Derby: Race day is a highlight of the year, with cars zipping down the track and cheers echoing in the room.

• February – Blue and Gold Banquet: A celebration of Scouting’s birthday, often with a special meal, awards, and entertainment to honor the pack’s achievements.

• February—Scout Sunday (or Scout Sabbath/Jumuah): Scouts wear their uniforms to worship services, participate in readings, or help with service projects. It’s a visible way to celebrate faith and Scouting’s connection to the community.

• May – Rank-Up Picnic: A chance to recognize hard work and advancement, often paired with games and outdoor family fun to close the season strong.

Beyond the big events, many packs bring excitement right to the monthly meeting—but what you do often depends on your local council’s resources and your pack’s creativity. Some programs may be offered or supported by your council, while others are planned by pack volunteers. The more families get involved, the more fun you can pack into each month.

Ideas to consider/ask about:

• Live Demonstrations: Invite local groups like the zoo to bring animals, or your local police or fire department to do safety demos.

• STEM and Crafts Nights: Building birdhouses, experimenting with simple science, or doing creative projects can keep skills sharp and hands busy.

• Community Guests: Local artists, veterans, park rangers, or other special guests can show Scouts what service and curiosity look like in action.

Some of the strongest packs grow because they step beyond the meeting room:

• Weekend Adventures: Day hikes, fishing trips, or family campouts help Scouts connect with nature and each other.

• Service Projects: Litter clean-ups, food drives, or helping at community events teach responsibility and give Scouts pride in making a difference.

• Special Outings: Visits to museums, ball games, or local festivals create shared memories that make kids excited to invite friends.

These activities are also great recruiting tools. When kids see Scouts launching rockets or exploring a zoo exhibit, they want to join—and parents see a program worth investing time in.

If committees feel thin or parent energy is dipping, it often means families don’t see the full picture. These events are the hook. When parents know about upcoming activities and feel welcome to help, they’re more likely to step in. A few ideas:

• Publish the Year Plan: A simple calendar or flyer with dates for the big events builds excitement and commitment.

• Make Volunteering Bite-Sized: Parents may not sign up to chair a committee, but they’ll happily run a craft table, bring snacks, or organize a field trip.

• Celebrate Contributions: Recognize parent helpers publicly—thank-yous go a long way in keeping energy high.

Scouting thrives on momentum. A year that’s dotted with fun, meaningful experiences—rocket launches, races, banquets, service, and surprise guests—will keep kids excited and families engaged. These aren’t just events on a calendar; they’re moments that shape confidence, friendships, and skills kids will carry into school and life.

Ready to make this your pack’s best year yet? Start sharing the plan now, get parents involved early, and remind every family: the adventure is bigger when you’re part of it.