19 Easy VBS Themes for Churches on a Budget

Pre-made VBS themes can be expensive! A church can easily spend thousands to put one together.

So we put our heads together and came up with the ultimate list of fun VBS theme ideas that are easy to pull off with tips on how to do them on a very small budget!

1. Under the Sea Adventure

Dive deep into the ocean with lessons about God's creation, Noah's Ark, and Jonah and the whale. Decorate with ocean-themed props, create crafts like sea creature masks, and play games like "Fishers of Men" fishing game.

VBS Theme Scripture

Genesis 1:20-23 (Creation of sea creatures), Jonah 1:17 (Jonah and the whale), Matthew 14:22-33 (Jesus walks on water)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Goldfish crackers, blue Jello cups with gummy fish, seaweed snacks

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Mermaids, sailors, scuba divers

2. Wild West Roundup

Saddle up for a Western-themed VBS with stories about Moses leading the Israelites through the wilderness and Jesus as the ultimate Good Shepherd. Set up a frontier town backdrop, make cowboy hats as crafts, and have fun with activities like lassoing contests.

VBS Theme Scripture

Exodus 13:21-22 (God leads Israelites through the wilderness), Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd), Luke 15:3-7 (Parable of the lost sheep)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Hay bales (I love this option I found because you can re-use this for your Fall Festival and Nativity scenes, though it is a bit pricey)
Cactus cutouts
Cowboy hats and boots
Bandanas
Saloon backdrop

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Trail mix, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, cornbread muffins

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Cowboys, cowgirls, sheriffs, bandits

3. Space Exploration: God's Universe

Blast off into outer space with lessons about God's greatness and creation. Create a space station atmosphere with cardboard rocket ships, make galaxy slime as a craft activity, and play games like "Asteroid Dodgeball" or "Rocket Relay Races."

VBS Theme Scripture

Psalm 19:1 (The heavens declare the glory of God), Genesis 1:1 (In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth), Isaiah 40:26 (God created the stars)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

DIY astronaut helmets
Moon rock painting
Galaxy slime

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Cosmic brownies, rocket-shaped sandwiches, fruit kabobs shaped like planets

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Astronauts, aliens, space explorers

4. Jungle Safari Expedition

Embark on a safari adventure through the jungle with lessons about God's provision and protection. Transform your space into a lush jungle setting with vines and animal cutouts, make binoculars as crafts, and have fun with activities like animal charades.

VBS Theme Scripture

Psalm 104:24-25 (The earth is full of God’s creatures), Genesis 1:26-28 (God's creation of animals), Matthew 6:26 (God's care for birds)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Artificial vines
Jungle animal cutouts
Large cardboard trees
Safari hats

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Animal crackers, banana "monkeys", jungle fruit salad

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Safari guides, jungle explorers, animals

5. Medieval Kingdom Quest

Step back in time to a medieval kingdom with lessons about God's sovereignty and kingdom. Decorate with castle backdrops and suits of armor, make shields and crowns as crafts, and enjoy activities like "Dragon Egg Hunt" or "Knight's Training Obstacle Course."

VBS Theme Scripture

Daniel 2:21 (God sets up kings and deposes them), Matthew 6:33 (Seek first the kingdom of God), Revelation 17:14 (Jesus, King of kings)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Castle backdrops
Suits of armor
Medieval banners
Royal thrones

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Turkey legs (chicken drumsticks), fruit "jewels", pretzel rod "swords"

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Knights, princesses, dragons, jesters

6. Superhero Training Camp

Discover the superhero within with lessons about God's power and strength. Create a superhero headquarters with capes and masks, make superhero cuffs and badges as crafts, and play games like "Superhero Tag" or "Power-Up Relay."

VBS Theme Scripture

Ephesians 6:10-18 (Armor of God), Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ), Mark 10:45 (Jesus came to serve)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Superhero fruit kabobs, "power" popcorn, superhero-themed cupcakes

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Superheroes, villains, sidekicks

7. Farmyard Fun Festival

Experience life on the farm with lessons about God's provision and stewardship. Set up a barnyard scene with hay bales and farm animal cutouts, make farm animal puppets as crafts, and enjoy activities like "Farmers' Market Scavenger Hunt" or "Barnyard Olympics."

VBS Theme Scripture

Genesis 1:29-30 (God gives plants and animals for food), Psalm 145:15-16 (God provides food for all creatures), Matthew 6:26 (God's care for birds)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Veggie sticks with ranch dip, animal-shaped cookies, popcorn "corn on the cob"

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Farmers, scarecrows, barnyard animals

8. Enchanted Forest Exploration

Enter a magical forest with lessons about God's wonder and creation. Transform your space with fairy lights and mystical creatures, make fairy houses and wands as crafts, and play games like "Fairy Tale Trivia" or "Pixie Dust Relay."

VBS Theme Scripture

Psalm 96:12 (Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them), Genesis 2:9 (God creates trees and plants), Isaiah 55:12 (Trees clap their hands in joy)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Fairy bread (buttered bread with sprinkles), edible flower petals, fruit fairy wands

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Fairies, elves, woodland creatures

9. Sports Spectacular Showdown

Gear up for a sports-themed VBS with lessons about teamwork and perseverance. Decorate with sports equipment and banners, make foam fingers and pennants as crafts, and enjoy activities like "Obstacle Course Challenge" or "Team Spirit Games."

VBS Theme Scripture

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (Running the race with perseverance), Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ), Hebrews 12:1-2 (Running the race of faith)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Sports equipment (balls, bats, etc.)
Pennant banners
Stadium backdrop

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Pretzel sticks, sports-themed cupcakes, fruit "team" skewers

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Athletes, referees, cheerleaders

10. Arctic Adventure Expedition

Brave the cold for an Arctic-themed VBS with lessons about God's faithfulness and provision. Create a winter wonderland with snowflakes and polar bear cutouts, make igloos and snow globes as crafts, and play games like "Penguin Waddle Race" or "Iceberg Hopscotch."

VBS Theme Scripture

Job 37:5-6 (God's control over snow and ice), Psalm 147:16-17 (God covers the earth with snow), Isaiah 1:18 (Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Snowball cookies, "polar bear" marshmallow pops, blue Jello cups with whipped cream

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Eskimos, penguins, polar bears

11. Time Travel Adventures

Embark on a thrilling journey through time as children explore different historical eras and learn about God's eternal presence throughout history. From ancient civilizations to futuristic worlds, this VBS theme encourages kids to discover how God's timeless truths apply to every age.

VBS Theme Scripture

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (For everything there is a season), Revelation 1:8 (God is the Alpha and the Omega), Hebrews 13:8 (Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Clocks
Vintage props from different eras
"Time warp" entrance

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

"Dinosaur" chicken nuggets, fruit "spaceships", cookies shaped like clocks

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Time travelers, historical figures, futuristic robots

12. Rainforest Expedition

Venture deep into the lush rainforest for an unforgettable VBS experience filled with exotic animals, vibrant foliage, and exciting discoveries. Children will explore the wonders of God's creation while learning about the importance of environmental stewardship and preserving the beauty of the natural world.

VBS Theme Scripture

Psalm 96:11-12 (Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad), Genesis 2:15 (God's command to care for the earth), Revelation 21:1 (God will make all things new)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Tropical fruit skewers, animal-shaped crackers, fruit smoothies

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Explorers, rainforest animals, tribal members

13. Detective Academy

Become a super sleuth at Detective Academy VBS, where kids will unravel mysteries, solve puzzles, and uncover hidden truths. Through engaging detective-themed activities and lessons, participants will learn about seeking wisdom from God and uncovering the mysteries of faith.

VBS Theme Scripture

Proverbs 2:6 (The Lord gives wisdom), 1 Corinthians 2:10 (God reveals mysteries through the Spirit), John 14:26 (The Holy Spirit teaches and guides)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

"Mystery" sandwiches (with hidden fillings), spy cookies, fruit "evidence" cups

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Detectives, spies, forensic scientists

14. Carnival Celebration

Step right up to the greatest show on earth at Carnival Celebration VBS! With colorful decorations, fun games, and delicious treats, children will experience the joy and excitement of a carnival while learning about the fruits of the Spirit and celebrating God's love and faithfulness.

VBS Theme Scripture

Galatians 5:22-23 (The fruit of the Spirit), Matthew 18:3 (Become like little children), Psalm 100:1-2 (Shout for joy to the Lord)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Cotton candy, popcorn, carnival-themed cupcakes

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Clowns, ringmasters, acrobats

15. Island Adventure: Shipwrecked Survival

Get stranded on a deserted island for an epic adventure of survival and faith at Island Adventure VBS. Through exciting activities and lessons, children will learn about trusting in God's provision, finding refuge in Him during times of trouble, and discovering that even in the midst of storms, God is always with us.

VBS Theme Scripture

Psalm 32:7 (God is our hiding place), Psalm 46:1 (God is our refuge and strength), Philippians 4:19 (God will supply our needs)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Tropical fruit salad, coconut water, fish-shaped crackers

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Castaways, island natives, sailors

16. Art Studio Exploration: Masterpiece Maker

Unleash your creativity and discover the artist within at Art Studio Exploration VBS! From painting and sculpting to crafting and creating, children will explore God's role as the ultimate Masterpiece Maker and learn that they are fearfully and wonderfully made in His image.

VBS Theme Scripture

Genesis 1:27 (We are created in God's image), Ephesians 2:10 (We are God's masterpiece), Psalm 139:14 (We are fearfully and wonderfully made)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Painter's palette cookies, fruit skewers, rainbow cupcakes

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Artists, art critics, art supplies

17. Dinosaur Discovery Expedition

Embark on a prehistoric journey back in time to explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs at Dinosaur Discovery Expedition VBS. Through hands-on activities and exciting adventures, children will learn about God's creation, His sovereignty over all living creatures, and the importance of stewardship of the earth.

VBS Theme Scripture

Genesis 1:24-25 (God's creation of land animals), Job 40:15-24 (Behemoth), Psalm 104:24-25 (The earth is full of God's creatures)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

Dinosaur-shaped sandwiches, "dino eggs" (grapes), volcano cupcakes

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Paleontologists, cave people, dinosaurs

18. Construction Zone: Building God's Kingdom

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to build at Construction Zone VBS! From laying the foundation to putting on the finishing touches, children will learn about the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and faith as they work together to build God's kingdom on earth.

VBS Theme Scripture

1 Corinthians 3:9 (We are God's fellow workers), Nehemiah 2:17 (Let us rise up and build), Ephesians 2:20 (We are built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets)

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Caution tape
Hard hats
Construction tools
Building block props

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

"Toolbox" snacks (assorted nuts and bolts), fruit "construction cones", build-your-own sandwiches

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Construction workers, architects, engineers

19. Spy Academy: Agents of Faith

Join the ranks of elite secret agents at Spy Academy VBS, where kids will learn to live out their faith fearlessly and boldly. Through stealthy missions, clever disguises, and top-secret assignments, participants will discover that they are agents of God's kingdom and that with Him, they can overcome any obstacle.

Decorations for This VBS Theme

Top-secret files
Spy gadgets
Laser beam maze

Crafts for This VBS Theme

Invisible ink messages
Disguise kits
Secret code bracelets

Snack Ideas That Fit the VBS Theme

"Disguised" fruit skewers, secret agent trail mix, spy-themed cupcakes

Great VBS Costume Ideas

Secret agents, double agents, masterminds

Throw the Best VBS, No Matter the Budget

These ideas show that you don't need expensive themes to have a fun, impactful VBS.

Your church can put together an amazing VBS without dropping major cash. Just use your creativity and let the kids' imagination do the rest!

Matt
Church Engagement