One of the most exciting (and sometimes stressful) parts of Vacation Bible School is snack time. If you’re planning True North VBS from Group Publishing this year, you’re already navigating epic Bible adventures through the Alaskan wilderness. Why not make snack time just as unforgettable?
Even better, we’ve made sure these snack ideas are gluten-free, making them safe for most kids with dietary sensitivities—while staying true to each day’s theme and Bible Buddy.
Here are 5 creative gluten-free snack ideas, one for each day of True North VBS:
Day 1: When We Wonder, We Can Trust Jesus
Bible Buddy: Ponder the Sea Otter
Bible Story: John baptizes Jesus (Matthew 3)
Snack: Sea Otter Banana Boats
Slice bananas in half lengthwise and spread with sunflower seed butter. Sprinkle with gluten-free granola and top with blueberries to look like little otters floating on their backs. A sweet way to “ponder” how we can trust Jesus when life is uncertain!
Day 2: When We Feel Alone, We Can Trust Jesus
Bible Buddy: Clawdia the King Crab
Bible Story: God cares for us like lost sheep (Matthew 18)
Snack: Crabby Apple Delights
Use apple slices as the crab’s body, gluten-free pretzel sticks for legs, and raisins for little eyes. This clever snack reminds kids that even when they feel lost or alone, Jesus sees them—just like the shepherd seeks the one lost sheep.
Day 3: When We Feel Powerless, We Can Trust Jesus
Bible Buddy: Kody the Bear
Bible Story: The Roman officer’s faith (Matthew 8)
Snack: Bear Paw Cookies
Using gluten-free cookie dough, shape into circles and press chocolate chips and sliced almonds on top to make “bear paw” prints. These strong-yet-sweet snacks encourage kids to remember: even when we feel powerless, Jesus is strong.
Day 4: When We Need Hope, We Can Trust Jesus
Bible Buddy: Earnest the Eagle
Bible Story: Jesus heals the blind (Matthew 9)
Snack: Eagle Eye Parfaits
Layer gluten-free granola, yogurt (dairy-free if needed), and colorful berries in clear cups. These parfaits are not just delicious—they visually reinforce the story of seeing with new eyes and trusting in hope.
Day 5: When We Need Help, We Can Trust Jesus
Bible Buddy: Mo the Moose
Bible Story: The Great Commission (Matthew 28)
Snack: Moose Trail Mix
Mix gluten-free cereal, dried fruits, sunflower seeds, and allergy-safe chocolate chips in individual baggies. This trail-ready mix is the perfect way to remind kids that even as they “go into all the world,” Jesus is always with them.
Need the image files for each snack? You can download the large individual files below.
Why Gluten-Free Matters at VBS
Even if your church doesn’t have many kids with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, including gluten-free options ensures inclusivity. These recipes use simple, whole ingredients that are both safe and satisfying.
And the best part? They fit perfectly with your daily teaching themes, making snack time another touchpoint for reinforcing God’s truth.
Bonus Tip: Theme Your Snack Station
Decorate your snack station with Alaskan wilderness elements—wooden signs, pine trees, compass motifs, and Bible Buddy cutouts—to immerse kids even more in the “True North” experience.
