How do I have my animated character have a weapon switching system?

I'm new to Unity and I would like to know how to do the possible: In my 2D game, my character will have side-scrolling animations such as running, idle, jumping, etc, and throughout the game, he can pick up many different melee weapons. When a weapon will be equipped, in needs to be in the hands of the player character an being animated with it. When the player will switch between melee weapons, the weapon in the character's hand needs to change too. How do I do this. Sorry if the answer is too obvious or if I'm not being clear enough.