National Kazoo Day, observed on the 4th Thursday in January - or "whenever it's convenient for the kazooist" - is a whimsical celebration of the iconic musical instrument that has been buzzing since the 1840s. Initially known as the "Down South Submarine" and showcased at the Georgia State Fair in 1852, kazoos have evolved from tin to wood and now plastic.
This year, join the festivities by creating your very own kazoos with a fun and straightforward craft using common household items. Experience the joy of crafting and making music together as a family!
To add a touch of history and trivia to your celebration, explore our curated informational links on the origin and evolution of kazoos. Discover how this humble instrument has found its way into popular music, adding a unique and unmistakable buzzing sound to various tunes.
For a short history of the kazoo and virtual kazoo factory tour enjoy the videos below with your kids. Whether you're a kazoo enthusiast or a beginner, these videos showcase the versatility and charm of this beloved instrument.
So, gather your family, get creative with the craft, delve into kazoo history, and enjoy the infectious buzz of National Kazoo Day. Don't miss out on the chance to make memories and music together! Want to try it out? Follow our step-by-step guide for crafting your own kazoos at home. Let the celebration begin!
Here is a fun video about the history of Kazoo's:
All about Kazoos
Everything Kazoo:
- National Kazoo Day
- Wikipedia: Kazoo
- 8 Classic Songs that Feature the Kazoo
- How to Kazoo plus interesting information
- Kazoobie Kazoos: Welcome to the Fun World of Kazoos
- Facebook Group: International Kazoo Players Association
Kazoo Factories / Museums:
- Kazoo Museum & Factory - Beaufort, South Carolina
- Kazoo Factory, Museum & Gift Shop of Eden, New York: The last metal kazoo factory in North America
Fun and Easy Kazoo Craft
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
- Cardboard tubes - use paper towel, toilet paper or gift wrap tubes cut into smaller sections as needed
- Craft tape such as Duck Tape to decorate
- Parchment paper or waxed paper
- Small rubber bands
- Scissors
How to make a Kazoo:
- Cover your cardboard tube with your favorite craft tape - this step is not necessary to make the kazoo work, just to personalize it.
- Cut a large square of parchment paper, enough to completely cover one end of the tube.
- Wrap the end in the parchment paper and secure with a rubber band, tight enough to stay on when blowing into the tube, but not too tight that it creates tension in the paper.
- Blow into the kazoo and make some music!
Note: To make a kazoo work, the parchment paper needs to vibrate. To make this happen, you will need to hum just right. It might take practice, but it can be done!
Your kids will enjoy this virtual visit to the Kazoobie Kazoo Factory and Museum in Beaufort South Carolina:
Have fun and Happy Kazoo Day!
This previously shared article from Macaroni KID publisher Jamie Twarogowski has been updated by Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas
