Leprechauns can’t resist free gold, so we’ve created a rainbow path that leads to a pile of treasure under the rainbow! Have the kids sketch out their own leprechaun trap idea, or follow along with our simple tutorial to make one of your own.
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a small commission which helps us run this website.
Helpful Tips:
What is the point of a leprechaun trap?
A leprechaun trap is sort of like the St. Patrick’s Day version of leaving out milk and cookies for Santa… except it’s a little more devious, because you’re attempting to trap a leprechaun! Leprechauns are mischievous creatures from Irish folklore. Legend says that you’ll be granted three wishes when you catch one! Kids can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by making this festive craft. Set out the leprechaun trap the night before (March 16) and kids might wake up to find signs that leprechauns have visited. Make sure they know that leprechauns will only come if everyone is asleep. (No peeking!)
What do you put in a leprechaun trap?
There are four different parts to the trap that you’ll need to include:
What is the leprechaun supposed to leave?
Kids MIGHT see signs that the leprechaun has visited the trap on St. Patrick’s Day morning. Sometimes the leprechaun leaves a note. Other times you can see little green footprints near the box. The feisty creatures are hard to catch. Don’t be surprised if the gold coins are missing or moved around! If you’re really lucky, they might leave a trail away from the trap to some kind of a treasure – like chocolate coins or a favourite candy or treat.
Build a leprechaun trap and leave it out the night before St. Patrick’s Day to see what shenanigans have occurred! You can also use your DIY leprechaun trap as part of storytime, with books like How to Catch a Leprechaun and Three Ways to Trap a Leprechaun.
Here’s even more St. Patrick’s Day ideas:
St. Patrick’s Day Coloring Pages
Pipe Cleaner Shamrock with Beads
Rainbow Licorice Treat Bags
Pretzel Shamrocks
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!
Where to buy:
