Most Cub Scouts celebrate Scouting Anniversary Week in February with a “birthday party” called the Blue and Gold banquet. In nearly all packs, Blue & Gold is the highlight of the year. It brings families together for an evening of fun and cheer.
The purpose of the Blue & Gold Banquet is to celebrate the Pack’s anniversary, thank Pack leaders and other adults who have helped the Pack, inspire the leaders, Scouts, and parents and recognize Scouting achievements.
The annual Blue & Gold Banquet is a long standing tradition in Pack 994. It is the culmination of all the work the Scouts have done and is a time to reward them for their achievements. We start the year “rising in rank”. By Blue & Gold (held in mid-March by our Pack) each Scout that has advanced in rank through completion of all their requirements receives recognition and their new rank badge. It is a great moment for Scouts and proud parents.
The Blue & Gold is traditionally hosted by the Webelos Is in Pack 994. Each year a theme is chosen and each den is asked to perform a skit that reflects the year’s theme. In past years, the dens have also been responsible for providing their table decorations and in the spirit of competition, they were judged. Though decorations aren’t rewarded any longer — the skits sometimes are! And competition can be fierce, every Den wants the honor of having the Pack Trophy for a year.
A special part of this evening is the Arrow of Light Ceremony for our Arrow of Light Den who are leaving the Pack and moving on to Boy Scouts. The boys are recognized for their hard work and dedication and are presented with a special Arrow of Light plaque. This is their last official event as Cub Scouts.
We also have some form of entertainment for the Scouts and their families. A magician, a juggler, a snake charmer, and some wild animals have been some of our few past performers.
We all enjoy getting together with all our Scouts and their families to share in the recognition, fun, food, and entertainment. It is a great evening.