Elmer Day returns with in-person and bookshop events across the country

Next week sees the return of Elmer Day featuring in-person and bookshop events around the country. 

Held on on 28th May, it is Andersen Press’ annual celebration of the late David McKee’s iconic patchwork elephant, and sees bookshops, libraries, schools and nurseries celebrate the character’s message of friendship, inclusivity and to embrace everyone’s colours.

A free activity pack is available for download here. The pack is a selection of activity sheets and ideas for games, lessons and story times featuring Elmer, with new resources from partners the Sleep Charity, with sleep hints and tips based on the latest book Elmer and the Bedtime Story, activities from LGBT+ charity Just Like Us extending the publisher’s Elmer Pride activity from 2021 and resources from anti-bullying charity partner Kidscape. 

There will also be Elmer costume appearances and story times in Waterstones stores in Kensington, Altrincham, Manchester Deansgate and Arndale Centre. Theme park Chessington World of Adventures will also celebrate the Elmer’s Flying Jumbo’s ride with its special Mardi Grrra! event from 27th May, which will see Elmer and his own "Kolour Krewe" take centre stage in the park with songs, dance and character meet-and-greets.  

This year also sees the release of the first ever Elmer title on Yoto. The Elmer Collection will be made available for use with the Yoto Player and Yoto Mini.