October 30 is known as “Mischief Night,” an evening typically associated with pranks and shenanigans. Since we want to avoid any trouble, vandalism, and run-ins with the police, let’s skip the “festivities” and celebrate our favorite mischief-makers instead.
The pranksters:
- Fred and George Weasley (Harry Potter): They are the ultimate pranksters (which seems natural when your birthday is on April Fools Day!!) They even open their own joke shop (and make a spectacular exit when they drop out of Hogwarts by setting off fireworks and turning the hall into a swamp.)
- James Potter and Sirus Black: These two were causing trouble at Hogwarts years before the Weasley twins made their mark. Misters Padfoot and Prongs took troublemaking to the next level by creating the Marauders Map. They designed it to unlock with the phrase “I solemnly swear I am up to no good” and seal with “Mischief Managed.” ’nuff said.
- The Cat in the Hat: When parents are out for the day, The Cat creates chaos in the house trying to entertain the kids. At least he cleans up his mess before he leaves!
- Peter Pan: It seems natural for Peter Pan to be a mischief maker. I mean, if you could fly and never grow up, wouldn't you?
- Eloise: A precocious child, Eloise definitely causes trouble for everyone at the Plaza as she wanders around the Hotel. Her searches for adventure often include crashing weddings, “helping” the cleaning staff, and riding elevators.
- Ramona Quimby (Beezus and Ramona): Between locking the neighbor’s dog in the bathroom, eating the first bite of a bag of apples (because the first bite is the best!), and spontaneously inviting all her classmates over for a party are just a few of Ramona’s shenanigans!
- Matilda: When she learns how to use her powers, Matilda uses it to prank her parents and principal. She does it to teach them a lesson, but super gluing your dad’s hat to his head definitely counts as mischief!
- Curious George: George doesn’t intend on creating trouble…he’s just so curious to learn about everything around him!
