Open Season facts for kids

Open Season is a phrase that can mean different things, but it's probably best known as the name of a popular series of animated movies about talking animals. It can also refer to a time when hunting is allowed, or a special period when people can sign up for things like health insurance.

What Does "Open Season" Mean?

The phrase "open season" generally means a time when something is allowed or available. It's like a specific window of opportunity.

Hunting Season

In the world of hunting, an open season is a specific time of year when it is legal to hunt certain animals. These seasons are set by rules to make sure animals are not overhunted and their populations stay healthy. For example, there might be an "open season" for deer hunting during the fall.

Enrollment Period

Sometimes, "open season" or "open enrollment" refers to a period when people can sign up for things like health insurance or change their plans. It's a special time each year when you can choose or switch your benefits. This helps make sure everyone has a chance to get the coverage they need.

The "Open Season" Movie Series

The most famous use of "Open Season" for many kids is the series of computer-animated comedy movies produced by Sony Pictures Animation. These films follow the adventures of a friendly grizzly bear named Boog and a one-antlered deer named Elliot, along with their forest friends.

The First Movie: "Open Season" (2006)

The first movie, titled Open Season, was released in 2006. It tells the story of Boog, a tamed grizzly bear who lives a comfortable life in a town. He meets Elliot, a scrawny deer, and soon finds himself back in the wild just before hunting season begins. Boog, who is used to living with humans, has to learn how to survive in the forest with Elliot and the other animals. The movie was a big hit and was directed by Roger Allers and Jill Culton.

Sequels: "Open Season 2" and "Open Season 3"

After the success of the first film, two sequels were released:

• Open Season 2 came out in 2008. In this movie, Boog and Elliot go on a mission to rescue their friend Mr. Weenie, a dachshund who has been taken by his owners.
• Open Season 3 was released in 2010. This film sees Boog joining a traveling circus, where he meets a look-alike grizzly bear and switches places with him.

Other Uses

The term "Open Season" has also been used as the title for other creative works. For example, Open Season is the 59th book in The Hardy Boys mystery series. This popular book series follows teenage brothers Frank and Joe Hardy as they solve various mysteries.