FUN ACTIVITIES TO CELEBRATE HOBBIT DAY
Shire Custardy Apple Squares
These apple squares are one of John’s favorite desserts because they don’t have too much sugar. John has been known to have a piece for “second breakfast” with a cup of coffee.
Sept. 22 is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Middle-earth and enjoy some family- friendly activities inspired by “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” Here are some fun and engaging ways to celebrate Hobbit Day. 1. Hobbit-Themed Feast Hobbits are known for their love of food, enjoying several meals a day. Celebrate Hobbit Day with a bountiful feast featuring dishes inspired by the Shire. Here’s some ideas for each of the Hobbits’ many meal times.
to resemble the ones given to the Fellowship by Galadriel.
4. Reading Aloud From ‘The Hobbit’ Just as Bilbo and Frodo enjoyed stories, take some time to read aloud from “The Hobbit.” Use different voices for the characters to bring the story to life. This is a great way to introduce younger family members to Tolkien’s world. 5. Scavenger Hunt in the Shire Organize a scavenger hunt in your backyard or a local park. Hide small trinkets or “treasures” and create a map with clues leading to each location. The final treasure could be a small chest filled with chocolate coins or other treats.
INGREDIENTS
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus more for the pan 3 medium sweet apples (our favorite is McIntosh)
• 2 large eggs, plus one egg yolk, at room temperature • 1/3 cup granulated sugar • 1 pinch fine salt • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 6 tbsp whole milk (or almond milk), at room temperature
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• 1/2 cup all- purpose flour • 1 tsp baking powder
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Second Breakfast: Pancakes, scrambled eggs, and sausages.
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Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
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Elevenses: Shire custardy apple squares, seed cakes, scones, and jam. Lunch: Savory pies, cold meats, and cheeses. Afternoon Tea: Cucumber sandwiches, biscuits, and a pot of tea. Dinner: Roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and garden vegetables. Supper: Hearty stew and fresh bread.
DIRECTIONS
6. Middle-earth Music and Dancing
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1. Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 400 degrees. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with a little butter. 2. Slice the apples from top to bottom using a mandoline, Benriner, or sharp knife. The slices should be about 1/16-inch thick — elegantly thin, but not so thin that they’re transparent and fragile. (If they’re a little thicker, that’ll be fine, too.) Discard or compost the cores. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. 4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until the sugar has just about dissolved and the eggs are pale, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the vanilla extract, then the milk and the melted, cooled butter. Add the flour mixture and whisk to form a smooth batter. 5. Switch to a flexible spatula, and gently fold in the apples, turning the mixture until each slice is coated in the batter. Scrape the mixture into the pan. It will be bumpy. 6. Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed — make sure the middle of the cake has risen — and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool for at least 15 minutes. 7. Carefully cut into 9 equal squares in the pan. Give the squares a dusting of powdered sugar before serving, if you’d like. Serve plain or with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
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Create a playlist of music from the “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” soundtracks. Host a hobbit-style dance party in your living room or garden, and teach the kids some simple folk dances. 7. Hobbit-Themed Games Play games inspired by the world of hobbits and Middle-earth.
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2. Middle-earth Movie Marathon
Settle in for a movie marathon featuring “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Create a cozy viewing area with blankets and pillows, and enjoy the epic adventures of Bilbo and Frodo. 3. Hobbit-Themed Crafts Engage in some creative crafting activities inspired by Middle-earth.
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Riddles in the Dark: Have a riddle contest, inspired by Bilbo’s encounter with Gollum. Middle-earth Trivia: Test your knowledge of Tolkien’s works with a trivia game. Hobbit Footrace: Organize a fun race in the backyard, pretending to run from trolls or orcs.
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Hobbit Door Decorations: Create mini hobbit doors using cardboard, paint, and other craft supplies. Decorate your home with these charming doorways. Middle-earth Map: Draw or print a map of Middle-earth and let the kids color it in. Add locations from both “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” Elven Leaf Brooches: Make brooches using green felt, glue, and safety pins
Hobbit Day is a fantastic opportunity to gather your family and celebrate the magic and wonder of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Whether through food, movies, crafts, or outdoor activities, there are countless ways to bring a touch of the Shire to your home. Enjoy the festivities, and may your day be filled with adventure and joy, just as it would be for a hobbit in the heart of the Shire. Happy Hobbit Day!
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