Belt, Clothes, Squirrels, Corny Run Ons
Run ons are short jokes or skits used during campfire programs. They break up the serious parts and give Scouts a chance to laugh. A good run on is quick, funny, and easy to understand. It keeps the audience interested while adding energy to the program.
These short scenes usually have two people. One person runs onstage looking upset. The second person asks what is going on. The first person gives a silly answer that surprises the audience. These types of jokes are easy for Scouts to perform, even if they are shy.
You can use run ons between longer skits or songs. They help with the flow of the campfire program. When you space them out across the evening, the group starts to expect them. This keeps everyone engaged and adds some fun to the event.
These run ons work well for all age groups. Cub Scouts enjoy them, and Scouts BSA and Venturers can use them too. They are a great way to get more youth involved without needing much rehearsal or setup.
Where Did These Corny Things Come From?
Run ons have been around in Scouting for a long time. No one knows exactly who made the first one, but they have been used for decades. They are part of campfire tradition because they are quick, simple, and funny. Scouts enjoy them, and they are easy to add between songs and skits.
These little bits of fun fit well with the Scouting spirit. They give Scouts a chance to get up and speak without needing to memorize a long script. They also help younger Scouts feel more confident. Even a short line can make the group laugh and feel connected.
Campfire programs have always mixed serious moments with light ones. Run ons help with that balance. They fill in the gaps and keep the audience interested. A good run on can turn a quiet crowd into a laughing one in just a few seconds.
Over time, leaders and Scouts have passed down run ons from group to group. Some are still used the same way they were 40 years ago. Others change a little as new Scouts add their own style. That’s part of what makes run ons special in the Scouting world.
The Run Ons
The Belt
Person 1: It’s all around me! It’s all around me!!!
Person 2: What is all around you?
Person 1: My belt!
My Clothes
Person 1: It’s all over me! It’s all over me!!!
Person 2: What’s all over you?
Person 1: My clothes!
I’m Nuts
Person 1: They’re after me! They’re after me!!!
Person 2: Who is after you?
Person 1: The squirrels! They think I’m nuts!!!
I Can’t Get Away
Person 1: I can’t get away from them! I can’t get away from them!
Person 2: What can’t you get away from?
Person 1: These corny run ons!!!
More Resources
Skits for Campfire Programs and Other Gatherings
Looking for more fun ideas like these run ons? Check out Skits for Campfire Programs and Other Gatherings on my site. It has lots of short skits that are great for Scouts.
You’ll find skits that are easy to learn and fun to perform. Some are silly like run ons, and others are a little longer. They work well for campfires, pack meetings, or troop gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a run on?
A run on is a very short skit with a funny ending. It usually has two people. One acts upset or confused. The other asks what is wrong. The first person gives a silly answer.
How long should a run on be?
Run ons are quick. Most take less than 30 seconds. They are meant to be fast and funny.
Do Scouts need to memorize lines?
Not really. The lines are short and easy to remember. You can also let Scouts read from a small card if they need to.
When should we use run ons in a campfire program?
Use them between songs or longer skits. They help keep the audience interested. You can also spread them out during the whole campfire.
Do we need props or costumes?
No. These run ons do not need any props or costumes. Just two Scouts and a good sense of timing.
Can Cub Scouts do run ons?
Yes. These are perfect for Cub Scouts. They are short and easy. Even younger Scouts can join in.
Can older Scouts use them too?
Yes. Scouts BSA and Venturers enjoy them too. They often add their own twist to make them funnier.
How many run ons should we include?
That depends on your program. One or two works well. Or use a series and spread them out.
Do run ons need to be practiced?
A little practice helps. Just a quick run-through is enough. Scouts don’t need to memorize everything.
Why use run ons at all?
They help keep the energy up. They give Scouts a chance to perform. And they make people laugh.
The Belt, the Clothes, and the Nuts: A Run On Parade
This group of run ons is simple and fun for Scouts to perform. Each one follows the same pattern. Person 1 comes in upset and shouting. Person 2 asks what is wrong. Then comes the silly punchline. The jokes are quick and easy to remember.
These work well on their own or as a series. If you spread them out during a campfire program, Scouts will start to look forward to the next one. The last one ties them all together with a final laugh.
These run ons need no props or costumes. They are great for Scouts who are shy or just learning to speak in front of a group. You don’t need to rehearse much, and anyone can join in.
This is a good way to get more youth involved. Even a small part like this can help them feel included. It’s also a fun way to teach timing and confidence in front of a crowd.
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