As English teachers, we know that books build knowledge, vocabulary, empathy, and so much more. Hosting an end of year party provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate your students and the books they’ve read this school year! From edible projects to literary superlatives, here are five fun ELA class party ideas to end the year on a high note. These activities will not only entertain but also reinforce the love of reading and creativity you’ve cultivated all year long. Thank you for all you do!
Eat Edible Book Projects at an End of Year Party
Rather than doing a typical party food sign-up sheet, consider assigning an edible book project instead. This was always my favorite way to end each semester because my high school students got the party they wanted with a side of academic enrichment. Students worked on culinary symbolism, presented it with their last independent reading book, then we ate! It was a fun way to celebrate reading and end the year on a feel-good note. But if outside food isn’t allowed (or if it makes you a little queasy), imaginary food works too. You can use this resource for inspiration!
Create Book Superlatives at an ELA Class Party
Another fun way to celebrate the books you’ve read this year is with superlatives! First, you can get the party started with literary or punny superlatives for each student. Then, with this end of year party idea, prompt students to design their very own awards inspired by the books they’ve read this school year. Perfect for an independent reading celebration or a whole class novel wrap up, students will award a book a superlative based on its best trait. Here are some book superlative examples:
- Best Sense of Humor
- Most Likely to Be Re-Read
- Most likely to Make Your English Teacher Cry
Set Up a Classroom Coffeeshop for an End of Year Party IDEA
Introverts unite! If you want to end the year on a calmer note, then swap out a high energy vibe for a coffee shop vibe. To tame the end of year wildness, dim the lights, put on some lofi coffee shop ambiance, and plan a low-key activity like book summary poetry or a book letter writing session.
These reflective tasks not only help students decompress but also allow them to show off their creativity in a setting that feels relaxed and inspiring. It’s the perfect way to end the year on a meaningful, peaceful note!
Play Literary Trivia at an ELA cLASSROOM Party
Sometimes end of year parties can turn into phone sessions. To end the year on a more connected note, consider adding a fun trivia game where you ask teams trivia questions related to the books you’ve read.
Here’s how to organize it:
- Divide students into small teams.
- Write questions related to books covered in class. Cover categories like characters, plot, setting, and themes. This is your chance to throw in some fun questions, not test questions! You could also include fun extras like trivia about you as their teacher (e.g., “Which is Mrs. Bible’s favorite Shakespeare play?”).
- Use an app like Kahoot for a digital trivia game or go classic with a whiteboard and markers.
- Sweeten the deal with prizes! You can offer small rewards like bookmarks, stickers, or even extra credit points to the winning team.
Design Graduation Caps for Characters at an End of Year Party
Spark creativity by having students design symbolic graduation caps for their favorite literary characters! Using this fun resource, students can brainstorm designs that represent the traits of the characters they’ve explored during the year. This engaging project combines art and analysis, helping students connect more deeply with the stories while celebrating the characters’ growth.
An end-of-year party is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible progress your students have made and your role in fostering a lifelong love for literature.
Whether they’re competing in literary trivia, creating edible book projects, or sipping cocoa in your classroom-turned-coffeehouse, these activities ensure that your students leave your class with a smile and fond memories. Have a wonderful summer break!
