50 of the Best Kids World Book Day Costume Ideas
Is your child ready to get lost within their favourite storybook this World Book Day? March is the time of year for all young book worms to delve deep in their favourite story, and find out what adventure is really all about. Whether they fancy getting up to a bit of mischief as Horrid Henry, becoming the master chocolatier, Willy Wonka, or aspire to be the the brainbox of the year, Hermione Granger, here at fancydress.com, we have a wide range of kid's World Book Day costume ideas that’ll no doubt spark your child's imagination. Read on to discover our top 50 kid's World Book Day costume ideas for 2024.
Hermione Granger
The first costume on our list of 50 kid's World Book Day costume ideas is one for the brainboxes out there. Best friend to Harry and Ron, Hermione helps the group uncover the truths about the Dark Lord and all the deadly horcruxes he’s been hiding. If your little girl loves school, this costume is the perfect choice for her.
Horrid Henry
‘Don’t be so horrid, Henry!’ Horrid Henry is one of the most popular kid’s TV cartoon series and for good reason. Along with his best friend, Rude Ralph, Henry enjoys getting up to no good and making fun of his goody-two-shoes brother, Perfect Peter. Henry is known for wearing his signature yellow and blue striped top and blue trousers. Re-create this popular character for your boy this World Book Day.
Wizard of Oz Lion
One of the most iconic films to have ever been produced is the all-round family favourite, Wizard of Oz. Alongside his new-found friends Dorothy, the Tin Man and the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion is always lagging behind them all, afraid of all the dangers they may encounter. The wizard gives him a drink full of ‘courage,’ and he finally learns what it really means to be brave. Our Wizard of Oz Lion Costume is cosy, warm and fitting for World Book Day. It's ideal for both boys and girls.
Gigantosaurus
Is your child a fan of dinosaurs? The popular kid’s stories written by Jonny Duddle will have them hooked for hours on end. This World Book Day, they'll get to embark on an adventure with Bill, Mazu, Rock and Tiny. Gigantosaurus has also more recently been turned into an animated TV series for the little ones to love and enjoy. Will your child take on the role as leader, the puzzle solver, or the singer? Choose from our range of five Giganosaurus outfits. They make the perfect kid's World Book Day costume ideas for little ones with a roar.
Cruella De Vil
A lover of fur, mischief and mayhem, Cruella De Vil is one of the Disney villains we all love to hate. She's known for her dalmation printed coats, her black and white hair and two troublemaker accomplices, Jasper and Horrace. She makes a great character choice for World Book Day. "Hello, Anita darling!"
Mr Stink
The tale of Mr Stink is a heartfelt story written by comedian, David Walliams. Watch as your child immerses themselves in this wonderful book or short film this World Book Day, but be sure to watch out for that stink… This is a children's World Book Day outfit idea for all the boys that love all things rude and stinky.
Harry Potter
The epic novels written by mastermind, JK Rowling are not only loved by children, but by adults too. Your child will step into the magical world of Hogwarts and defeat the evil Voldemort once and for all. Treat them to our Harry Potter Robe Kit so they look the part at any Book Day event.
Ratburger
Watch your child become one of the quirkiest characters on the storybook scene, as the one and only, Ratburger. They’ll soon be serving scrumptious rat burgers at school this March. Is anyone brave enough to try them? It’s a fun and unique kid's World Book Day costume idea for children that love the hilarious books written by David Walliams.
Fireman Sam
One of the most popular books that started in the 90's was the tale of Fireman Sam. Whenever there’s trouble, Fireman Sam the Pontypandy Fire Brigade are always there to save the day. There are different tales of the heroic fireman that your child can enjoy and get lost in this World Book Day. What's your child's favourite? It’s time to save the town, Sam!
Thing 1 and 2
Do you have two children? Or does your child have a best friend? Thing 1 and 2 are known to cause mayhem and mischief wherever they go. These two cheeky characters are twins from the funny and quirky Cat in the hat book, written by the legendary Dr Seuss. They may look sweet and innocent, but they’re far from it… It's a children's World Book Day costume idea that's perfect for pairs.
Wheres Wally and Wenda
Does anyone fancy a game of hide and seek? You’ll be searching far and wide for a very long time, as Where's Wally and Wenda are almost impossible to find. Known for his red and white striped top, red trousers and black rimmed glasses, Where's Wally is a popular character theme to dress up as for World Book Day. Bonus points if you can actually find him!
Postman Pat
‘Postman Pat, Postman Pat, Postman Pat and his black and white cat.’
The books and TV series of Postman Pat follows the adventures of a postman who works for Royal Mail, in the peaceful village of Greendale. He drives around in his red van all day, along with his black and white cat. Others can count on your child to deliver their mail on time this World Book Day!
Wind in the Willows
Wind the Willows is a popular children’s novel that was first published in the early 1900's. It tells the tale of Mole, Ratty and Badger, who all help Mr Toad when he gets himself into trouble. Treat your little one to one of the four main characters from this wonderful tale. They're one of the most adorable kid's World Book Day outfit ideas on our list!
Wizard of Oz - Dorothy
With just a single click of your ruby slippers, you’ll find yourself in the wonderful land of Oz. Dorothy is the main character from the storybook and film, the Wizard of Oz. She embarks on an adventure to find the Wizard of Oz with her three friends: the Tin Man, the friendly Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion. It’s a great World Book Day costume idea for girls who love to dress up, celebrating one of the most magical tales ever written and produced.
Denice the Menace
Dennis The Menace is a long-running comic strip in the classic children’s comic, The Beano. As his name suggests, Dennis is an absolute menace who loves to cause havoc with his pet, Gnasher. There's trouble wherever he goes! Here’s to hoping your child won’t cause too much mayhem this World Book Day… Hehehe!
Jemima Puddleduck
The tale of Jemima Puddleduck was written and illustrated by the British author, Beatrix Potter. It’s a story about a duck named Jemima who wasn’t allowed to keep the eggs she lays on the farm. She meets the charming, Mr Fox, who might seem nice at first, but he has other plans... If you're looking for an adorable children's outfit for World Book Day, Jemima is a top choice!
The Queen of Hearts
Another Disney villain we all know and recognise is the master of croquet and leader of the pack of cards, the Queen of Hearts. Ruler of the kingdom, she takes joy from having you ‘off with your head,’ if you put a foot wrong. If your girl’s a fan of the Lewis Carroll tale of Alice in Wonderland, she’ll love becoming the evil queen for the day.
Grandpa’s Great Escape
The next quirky World Book Day character for your child to transform into is the slightly eccentric and adventurous hero from the book, Grandpa’s Great Escape. It’s another one of David Walliams’ masterpieces and makes a great Book Day fancy dress idea for fans of his book.
Dumbledore
Albus Dumbledore is the greatest wizard of all time, and anyone would be a fool to deny it. The loyal headmaster of Hogwarts of Witchcraft and Wizardry and protector of Harry Potter is loved by all, and inspired by many. Known for his long white beard and pointy hat, he’s an iconic character in the book world.
Cinderella
Every girl dreams of becoming a princess, especially Cinderella. Tired of her boring life looking after her awful stepmother and stepsisters, she finally breaks free and falls in love with the prince. After all, every girl deserves to dance at the ball... It’s a great children's World Book Day costume idea for little girls that love Disney.
The Cat in the Hat
Enter the quirky and slightly bizarre world of Dr Seuss, as The Cat in the Hat. This iconic tale tells the story of two siblings that are left alone on a rainy day, and the Cat in the Hat turns things around by causing mayhem and mischief. Your child is in for a wild time this World Book Day…
Stick Boy
Another popular costume idea on our list of 50 kid's World Book Day ideas is one for the adventure-seekers out there. He’s desperate to return to his family tree, but things don’t ever go smoothly for poor Stick Man. If your child’s a fan of this fun and exciting novel written by Julia Donaldson, this is the perfect outfit choice for them this March.
Gangsta Granny
There’s no stopping a certain old lady! Gangsta Granny loves to embark on new and exciting adventures (which could get her into a lot of trouble). The book and film is written and produced by David Walliams and is a favourite character amongst young children every year. See what your little girl gets up to this World Book Day...
Very Hungry Caterpillar
There’s a certain little caterpillar that loves to munch their way through lots of goodies and treats. The tale of the Very Hungry Caterpillar never gets old and is a fan favourite for kids all around the country. This outfit idea is colourful, cute and a lot of fun to play. Watch as your little one crawls around the floor looking for a leaf to munch on!
Elmer the Elephant
One of the most popular children’s books of all time is the tale of the brightly coloured, Elmer the Elephant. It’s a great book for young kids to read, as they follow Elmer on his journey of true discovery. Will your little one also accept themselves as being a unique elephant? This costume idea is easy to wear over your child's normal clothes.
Oompa Loompa
Is your child a fan of all things sweet? What about freshly melted, velvety smooth chocolate? They’ve got a big role to take on this World Book Day as one of Willy Wonka’s mischievous Oompa Loompa’s. Get them ready for a life-time supply of that delicious, rich, brown goodness!
Sleeping Beauty
All kids love a good Disney film, especially when it involves beautiful princesses. The tale of Sleeping Beauty is an all-time classic and a popular character dress up for World Book Day. Your little girl can become the princess from the animated Disney movie, or from the modern live-action film. The spell is about to be broken once and for all...
Mary Poppins
One of the most magical and unique characters to dress up as on World Book Day is the supercalifragilisticexpialidocious nanny, Mary Poppins. She can fly from the sky, transport you into a magical land straight from the bathtub, and so much more! Your girl will have fun this March as the modern nanny from the latest film, Mary Poppins Returns. It's time for a sing song!
Bert - Mary Poppins
‘Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee!’ Mary Poppins’s friend, Bert, is one of the main characters from the original and new Mary Poppins films. He’s always singing, he’s always dancing, and he’s always got a smile on his face. If your child is a fan of this heartfelt movie, Bert makes the ideal kid's World Book Day costume idea.
Mrs Twit
Calling all young book worms and lovers of Roald Dahl. A favourite story by this classic author is the tale of Mrs Twit, which follows the life of a cruel lady who loses her good looks with every mean remark she makes. Let’s see if she can un-do her wrongdoings and make herself pretty again…
Storybook Alice
Get lost in an adventure filled with a White Rabbit who’s always late, a pack of real-life playing cards, a Mad Hatter and an evil Queen of Hearts. Alice in Wonderland is a fun character to dress up as year on year. From traditional Alice costumes, to more modern classics, there are so many to choose from. Just make sure the Queen of Hearts doesn’t have her ‘off with her head!’ Alice is a children's World Book Day costume that never fails to impress. It's instantly recognisable!
Peppa Pig
Another great costume choice for kids this World Book Day is the friendly and smiley Peppa Pig. Kids love to join this happy farm animal on her fun adventures, which don’t always end up how she expected. Peppa is so popular, they’ve even created a TV series!
In the night garden
Let your child’s imagination run free this March. The hit kid’s TV show, In The Night Garden, tells the story of a magical place that exists between waking and sleeping, all in a child's imagination. It’s fun, creative and the characters from the series make great costume ideas for World Book Day. Dress them up as Iggle Piggle or Upsy Daisy and watch their creative side shine through.
Masha and The Bear
Another beloved story and TV series is the tale of Masha and The Bear. Your child will enjoy following along their fun and wild adventures. Choose between Masha, the adventurous and free-spirited girl, or The Bear, who loves his peace and quiet.
Mad Hatter
Is your child Disney mad? If they’re full of beans and love to be a bit crazy from time to time, they’ll make a great young Mad Hatter. They’ll be getting ready for their tea party this March with lots of crumpets, cakes and plenty of madness!
Snow White
The Disney princess, Snow White, is known for her pure heart, her everlasting beauty and her awful encounter with the Evil Queen, who sinfully poisons her with a red apple. Your girl will have lots of fun with the Seven Dwarfs as they recreate the look of this beautiful Disney princess this March. Just watch out for that shiny red apple!
Demon Dentist
Your child is about to head over to the operating seat to examine, X-ray and de-scale his patient’s teeth…but with an evil twist. The Demon Dentist is a popular children’s story written by British comedian, David Walliams. Open wide and say ‘ahhhh.’ It's a kid's World Book Day outfit idea for all the children out there that want to play a mean character this March.
Tin Man
The next costume on our list of kid's World Book Day fancy dress costumes is one for those who fancy taking a trip to the land of Oz. The Tin Man, along with his friends, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow and Dorothy, embark on an adventure to find the wonderful Wizard of Oz. Let’s just make sure he has enough oil to last the entire journey…
Scarecrow
If your child doesn’t fancy becoming the Tin Man, they can be the timid Scarecrow instead. Ironically, the Scarecrow is meant to be brave and strong, but he often lacks a brain and intelligence to be courageous. Your child can use their brain to make things better for the Scarecrow!
White Rabbit
‘I’m late, I’m late, for a very important date.’
The forever-rushing White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland is always late, forever running around and is never ever on time for his appointments. If your child is full of energy and fancies taking on the role of this character for World Book Day, the Queen of Hearts will be keeping a watchful eye on them. She expects them to arrive on time, with zero delays!
Awful Auntie
If your child adores the stories of Gangsta Granny, Ratburger, Mr Stink and more, they’ll love the story of the Awful Auntie, written by comedian, David Walliams. Your child, too, and can become the cruel auntie that everybody hates. They better get practicing their best mean face and angry voice!
Fantastic Mr Fox
The next costume on our list of children's World Book Day costume ideas is the sneaky and mischievous animal, Fantastic Mr Fox. Once a popular children’s book, it has now evolved into a film featuring George Clooney as the cheeky protagonist himself. This foxy character is a lot of fun to dress as!
Star Wars
Get ready to go to ‘infinity and beyond.’ From characters such as Yoda, Princess Leia, Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, there are so many Star Wars personalities to dress up as. Star Wars may not be a traditional kid's Book Day fancy dress idea, but it's popular every year. Every little boy aspires to be a Jedi!
Toy Story
Welcome to Andy’s playroom! Join Woody, Buzz and friends as they embark on adventures, whilst trying to keep Andy in the forefront of his mind. Jessi, Woody, Buzz or Rex - what's their favourite character?
Superheroes
Where would the world be without superheroes? Stop the bad guys from taking over the world and defeat them once and for all. Choose from Batman, Spiderman, The Avengers and more. Superheroes are a World Book Day costume idea for kids that are big fans of the comic universe.
The Teletubbies
Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po as they have fun in their own magical world, eating tubby toast, watching TV from their stomachs and enjoying each other’s company.
Frozen
Head into the unknown and embark on a magical and icy adventure with Elsa, Anna and Olaf. Frozen is a popular Disney movie amongst kid’s all ages. The film has also inspired a series of storybooks and activity books. Can Anna help break the spell?
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are ready to take on their next adventure to take out the bad guys. Follow Leonardo, Donatella, Raphael and Michelangelo as they fight the evil Shredder in New York City. TMNT is a kid's World Book Day costume idea for all the cool kids out there!
The Descendants
Descendants is a hit Disney film and TV series that tells the story of troubled teenagers who need to decide if they’re going to follow in their evil mother’s footstep, or change their life around and do the right thing. Follow Evie, Mal, Audrey and Uma on their journey of discovery.
Scooby Doo
‘Would you do it for a Scooby snack?
The Mystery Ing Gang are ready to embark on their next case, and they’re not afraid of a challenge. Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy and Scooby are looking for their next clue…will it be obvious, or do they need some help?
That brings us to the end of our epic list of 50 kid's World Book Day costume ideas. We hope you managed to find inspiration for your little one this March. No matter what character they decide to dress as for the day, they’ll look the part with each and every one of our fun, character costumes.
View the full collection of children's World Book Day outfits in our online fancy dress shop.