Jack here! As summer gives way to the crisp air of fall, it’s the perfect time to gather around the campfire, share stories, and build connections—whether it’s with new scouts or strengthening the bonds in your pack or troop. There’s something magical about a campfire, isn’t there? The way it pulls everyone in, from the youngest scout eager to toast marshmallows to the oldest leader reminiscing about campfires from years past. It’s where we laugh, learn, and maybe, just maybe, sneak a s’more when no one’s looking. But as much as we love the warmth of the fire, we’re also focused on bridging the fun of scouting with the important task of helping our communities. From selling popcorn to planning service projects, every activity we do helps us build stronger bridges to a better future.
Jokes & Brain Teasers
· Why did the scout build a bridge out of marshmallows? So it would be extra sweet!
· What do campfires and bridges have in common? They both bring people together!
· Quick Challenge: How many campfire songs can you sing in 5 minutes? Ready, set, go!
· Tongue Twister: "Scout Sam saw six sizzling s'mores by the seashore."
· Riddle: I start with a flicker, grow with a spark, I can light up the night but beware my dark. What am I? (Answer: A campfire)
Recruiting & Fundraising Ideas
· Community Dog Show: Host a dog show where scouts can show off their furry friends. Charge a small entry fee and offer prizes for categories like "Best Trick" and "Waggiest Tail."
· Campfire Cook-Off: Organize a campfire cooking competition. Teams compete to create the best campfire dish, with attendees paying to taste and vote for their favorites.
· Bridge Building Challenge: Invite local kids to a bridge-building event using popsicle sticks or LEGO bricks. Use the event to showcase scouting activities and recruit new members.
· Popcorn & S’mores Kits: Sell ready-to-make popcorn and s’mores kits at local events. Perfect for families who want to enjoy a night around the campfire.
· Service Project Showdown: Hold a competition between patrols or dens to see who can come up with the most impactful service project. Have community members vote with donations to fund the projects.
· Campfire Story Night: Host a campfire storytelling night open to the community. Charge a small fee for entry and use the event to recruit new scouts and fundraise.
Scouting Resources
· More Thoughts About Campfires
Campfires are more than just a source of warmth; they are a cornerstone of scouting traditions. This resource dives into the significance of campfires, offering tips on how to make your next campfire gathering even more memorable. From song suggestions to unique skit ideas, this is a must-read for any leader looking to keep the campfire spirit alive.
· Be Proud
This Scoutmaster Minute focuses on the importance of pride in the scouting journey. It’s about recognizing the small achievements that contribute to larger successes. Whether it’s a scout mastering a new skill or completing a service project, this resource reminds us that pride in one’s accomplishments is an essential part of growth.
Planning the perfect campfire can be daunting, but this resource makes it easy. It provides a step-by-step guide to organizing a campfire event, complete with song lists, skit suggestions, and tips for keeping the fire safe and enjoyable. It’s a comprehensive plan that ensures your campfire will be a hit with scouts and leaders alike.
· Why Boy Scouting is Real Community Service
This blog post explores how scouting is not just about personal development but also about giving back to the community. It discusses the various ways scouts can serve their communities, from small acts of kindness to larger, organized service projects. It’s a great read for leaders looking to inspire their scouts to make a difference.
· The Lights of a Hundred Campfires
This closing ceremony script captures the essence of campfire traditions, emphasizing the unity and warmth that campfires bring to scouting. It’s a poignant way to end any scouting event, reminding everyone of the light that scouting brings into their lives.
This resource is all about building character through scouting. It offers activities and discussions designed to instill values such as honesty, respect, and responsibility in scouts. It’s a great tool for leaders who want to emphasize the moral and ethical aspects of scouting.
Trading Post
· Odoland Portable Folding Campfire Grill - $28.79
No firepit? No worries! This portable folding campfire grill is perfect for scouts who love to cook outdoors. Whether you’re grilling over wood or charcoal, this heavy-duty iron grill has you covered. It’s durable, easy to transport, and can even double as a fire screen to keep sparks at bay during those breezy campfire nights.
· Flame King Smokeless Propane Fire Pit - $123.61
Ideal for places where open fires are banned, this smokeless propane fire pit lets you enjoy all the warmth and ambiance of a campfire without the mess. It’s easy to set up, comes with a self-igniter, and is perfect for backyard gatherings, beach trips, or any scouting adventure. Plus, it’s CSA-approved, so you can use it even during most campfire bans.
· Scout Skits: A collection of more than 100 favorite campfire skits by Thomas Mercaldo - $7.99
Looking to add some fun to your next campfire? This book offers over 100 campfire skits that are sure to entertain scouts of all ages. From traditional favorites to new skits, it’s packed with humor and creativity, making it a must-have for any scout leader’s library.
· Superior Campfires by Thomas Mercaldo - $7.99
Superior Campfires is the ultimate guide to hosting unforgettable campfires. With skits, cheers, stories, and more, this book is designed to keep everyone engaged from the first spark to the last ember. It’s an essential resource for any leader looking to elevate their campfire game.
· More Scout Skits by Thomas Mercaldo - $7.99
This book offers even more skits to liven up your campfire. It includes over 75 skits, from forgotten classics to fresh new ideas. It’s perfect for leaders who want to bring something new to their campfire gatherings and keep their scouts laughing all night long.
· TIMBER RIDGE Lightweight Oversized Camping Chair with Side Table - $71.99
Comfort meets convenience with this lightweight, oversized camping chair. It’s sturdy enough to support up to 400lbs and comes with a side table to keep your essentials within reach. Whether you’re sitting by the campfire or watching a scout game, this chair is your go-to for a comfortable and relaxing experience.
Scoutmaster Minute - Building Bridges
Scouts, as we sit here around the campfire, I want to talk about something that’s as important as the fire we’re gathered around—building bridges. No, not the kind made of wood and nails, but the kind made of kindness, respect, and understanding. Just like a well-built bridge helps us cross from one place to another, these bridges in our lives help us connect with others, even when we don’t see eye to eye.
Every time you lend a hand to someone in need, every time you listen when someone speaks, and every time you stand up for what’s right, you’re building a bridge. These are the bridges that will carry you through life, helping you reach new heights and bringing people together. In scouting, we learn the importance of community, of being there for one another, and that’s what these bridges are all about.
But remember, building bridges isn’t always easy. Sometimes it means being the first to apologize, the first to offer help, or the first to stand up against something that’s wrong. It takes courage, just like crossing a rickety bridge over a deep canyon. But when you do it, you create something strong, something lasting, and something that makes the world a little bit better.
So as you go through your scouting journey, think about the bridges you’re building. Think about how you can be a positive force in the lives of others. And just like this campfire warms us on a cool night, let your actions warm the hearts of those around you. That’s the kind of scout I know each of you can be—bridge builders, community makers, and leaders.
Wrap Up
Well, folks, that’s all from me this week! Remember, whether you’re around a campfire or out building bridges in your community, the spirit of scouting is with you. Keep those campfires burning bright, keep building those bridges, and most importantly, keep being the amazing scouts I know you are.
And don’t forget, we need your help to keep our campfire going! If you can, please consider making a donation or purchasing something from our shop. Every little bit helps us continue to provide resources, support, and a whole lot of scouting fun.
Keep on Wacky Scouting!
- Jack