This January, young readers and families are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Beatrix Potter at a special event hosted by the Cotsen Children’s Library at Princeton University. On Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the library will transform into a whimsical English cottage garden, offering children an unforgettable experience that brings Peter Rabbit and his friends to life. The event is free and open to the public, making it an ideal outing for preschoolers, toddlers, and early elementary-aged children seeking a day of imaginative play and literary exploration.
The Peter Rabbit Party is designed with interactive experiences at its heart. Visitors will have the opportunity to serve tea in a setting reminiscent of Potter’s English countryside, creating a cozy, hands-on experience that sparks curiosity and encourages social play. Children can also participate in planting carrots, guided by expert Master Gardeners from the West Trenton Garden Club. This activity provides a gentle introduction to gardening, nurturing not only a love of nature but also the sense of responsibility and wonder that comes from tending to living things. Families leave with the knowledge and inspiration to start their own miniature garden projects at home.
In addition to the hands-on activities, the event celebrates the life and work of Beatrix Potter, the creator of Peter Rabbit. Storytime sessions, displays, and gallery exhibits provide a deeper look at Potter’s illustrations, storytelling techniques, and enduring influence on children’s literature. The library’s space is thoughtfully transformed to resemble a charming cottage and garden, allowing children to feel as though they have stepped directly into the pages of the stories they love.
Adding an extra layer of excitement, visitors can enter a raffle to win a Peter Rabbit bedtime basket, which includes a collection of Potter’s works, encouraging continued reading and imaginative play long after the event concludes. This engaging combination of education, hands-on activities, and storytelling creates a rich, multi-sensory experience that appeals to the youngest audiences and their families alike.
https://cotsen.princeton.edu/youth-programs/community-events/peter-rabbit-partyCotsen Children’s Library, located within Firestone Library at 1 Washington Road, Princeton, serves as the perfect backdrop for this event. Its welcoming, open spaces make it ideal for interactive programs and immersive installations, while its position on Princeton University’s campus offers easy access for families throughout Central New Jersey. Attendees can explore the library’s galleries, enjoy creative activities, and discover the rich literary culture that Cotsen fosters year-round.
The Peter Rabbit Party reflects a broader trend in New Jersey toward family-centered educational events that blend fun, creativity, and learning. By combining literature, gardening, and hands-on engagement, the program creates an environment where children can explore new ideas, develop fine motor skills, and cultivate a love of books and nature in a playful, supportive setting. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate alongside their children, making the day a shared experience that strengthens family bonds and fosters early literacy.
For families seeking unique, interactive activities in the region, the Peter Rabbit Party is more than a simple story hour—it is a celebration of imagination, exploration, and the joy of discovery. From planting carrots to sipping pretend tea, children are invited to engage with Peter Rabbit’s world in ways that stimulate curiosity and creativity. Attending the event provides a perfect blend of arts, literature, and hands-on fun that can inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Families interested in enhancing their New Jersey adventures can explore more engaging activities and fun in the state, discovering programs and events designed to spark imagination, learning, and shared experiences. With its combination of storytelling, nature, and creative play, the Peter Rabbit Party at Cotsen Children’s Library promises to be a highlight of the winter season for children ages 2 to 6 and their families, offering memories that will last far beyond the day itself.
