Family Friendly Festivals UK catered to families provide a delightful mix of music, artistic expression, and outdoor enjoyment, creating lasting memories for everyone involved. These UK festivals for kids ensure a fun and engaging experience for children while offering entertainment for all ages.
For families seeking exciting experiences and parents eager to strengthen their relationship with their children, these kid-friendly UK events offer a wonderful chance to forge lasting memories and make special moments together.
However, finding events that cater to everyone while ensuring safety, inclusivity, and entertainment can be a challenge. That’s where this guide comes in! We’ve curated a list of the best family-friendly festivals in the UK, complete with tips and insights to help you plan the ultimate outing.
From music festivals for families to eco-friendly events, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to discover your next family adventure!
The Importance of Family-Friendly Festivals:
Cultural Significance: Family Friendly Festivals UK
Festivals for families in the UK offer enriching experiences that go beyond typical events. These vibrant celebrations highlight the rich culture and traditions of the country. Families come together to enjoy a variety of activities that foster connection and shared memories.
From lively music performances to engaging workshops, these festivals provide unique opportunities for families to immerse themselves in art, nature, and creativity. With activities designed for all age groups, these family-friendly festivals ensure that everyone can participate and have fun.
Attending these festivals not only strengthens family bonds but also allows participants to appreciate the diverse cultural landscape of the UK. Families looking for memorable experiences will find that these festivals are perfect for creating lasting memories.
Benefits of Attending a Family-Friendly Festival!
Unforgettable Family Bonding
Festivals provide a unique opportunity for families to disconnect from digital distractions and engage in quality time together. Whether it’s constructing a makeshift fort, grooving to live music, or enjoying a communal picnic, these shared experiences create cherished memories.
Broadening Horizons with Cultural Exposure
Festivals introduce children to diverse cultures and experiences. With global food stalls and multicultural performances, they promote open-mindedness and cultural understanding, all without the need for a passport.
Encouraging Creativity and Learning
Festivals offer children a chance to delve into storytelling sessions, science exhibits, and craft activities, sparking their curiosity in an entertaining, interactive setting. It’s an educational experience, but with a festive twist of glitter and confetti!
Safe Exploration in the Great Outdoors
Many festivals take place in natural environments, offering ample space for free play, tree climbing, and adventure. It’s a secure way for children to exercise both their bodies and imaginations.
Entertainment for All Ages
The best festivals cater to all age groups, from toddlers and teens to adults. With a variety of programs, including yoga sessions, bedtime stories, headline acts, and comedy shows, they ensure everyone leaves with a smile.
What Makes a Festival Family-Friendly?
Key Features to Look For When choosing a family-friendly festival:
Choosing the perfect family-friendly festival involves considering several essential factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Safety should be a top priority, with festivals offering on-site medical assistance, child identification wristbands, and clearly marked safe zones.
Families with young children will appreciate amenities like stroller-accessible pathways, convenient diaper-changing stations, and a variety of kid-friendly food options.
A well-rounded festival should also feature activities for all age groups, including play areas for toddlers and engaging entertainment zones for teens.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
Creating an inclusive and welcoming environment is key to hosting a memorable family festival.
Many modern festivals celebrate diversity and cater to families with children who have sensory sensitivities or are on the autism spectrum.
Look for events that feature sensory-friendly zones and adaptable activities, ensuring every family member can participate and enjoy the experience.
Sustainability:
Eco-friendly festivals are becoming increasingly popular as they focus on sustainability and environmental awareness.
These events emphasize reducing waste, encouraging recycling, and promoting sustainable practices.
Supporting green initiatives not only benefits the planet but also teaches children the importance of protecting the environment.
Top 10 Family Friendly Festivals in the UK
Elderflower Fields (East Sussex)
Dates: 22 May – 25 May
Elderflower Fields Festival is an ideal choice for families and first-timers seeking a relaxed, eco-conscious outdoor experience. This family-friendly festival offers a wide range of activities, including pond dipping, skateboarding, and magical evening storytelling sessions.
Spending time in nature at festivals like Elderflower Fields fosters stronger family connections. Immersed in the serene beauty of the outdoors, families can unwind, bond, and create lasting memories in a peaceful environment.
The event is designed to connect families with nature while fostering meaningful experiences in a safe, engaging atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy a delightful mix of activities, captivating performances, and delicious local cuisine.
With a focus on music, art, science, and live entertainment, the event offers a diverse lineup to inspire creativity and ensure fun for everyone.
Camp Bestival (Dorset)
Dates: Jul 31 – Aug 3
Camp Bestival, hosted at the stunning Lulworth Castle, Dorset, sets the benchmark for family-friendly festivals in the UK. Featuring live performances from renowned artists like Basement Jaxx and Mel C, it offers an unforgettable musical experience.
Families can enjoy thrilling circus shows, while children explore with their very own adventure passports. With dedicated kids’ zones and engaging interactive workshops, this festival promises fun for all ages.
Latitude Festival (Suffolk)
Dates: Jul 24 – Jul 27
Latitude Festival in Suffolk offers a unique blend of music, comedy, and family-friendly entertainment in a stunning lakeside setting. This vibrant event features exciting highlights like interactive science experiments, woodland adventures, and a dedicated teen zone.
Perfect for all ages, Latitude Festival ensures unforgettable experiences for families, music lovers, and comedy enthusiasts alike.
The Big Feastival (Cotswolds): Family Friendly Festivals UK: Perfect Getaways for Families
Dates: Aug 22 – Aug 24
The Big Feastival, hosted on Alex James’ picturesque farm, offers an unforgettable blend of food, music, and family fun. This vibrant festival features Michelin-starred chefs showcasing culinary excellence, creating a paradise for food enthusiasts. Families can explore vintage funfairs, enjoy thrilling rides, and immerse themselves in captivating kids’ shows.
With its unique mix of entertainment, The Big Feastival (Cotswolds) promises a sensory experience like no other. From live music performances to mouthwatering dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Perfect for families, foodies, and music lovers, this event is a must-visit for an unforgettable weekend.
Shambala Festival (Northamptonshire)
Dates: Aug 21 – Aug 24
Shambala Festival provides a unique escape into nature, offering an unforgettable experience filled with magic and creativity. Renowned for its enchanting atmosphere, this eco-friendly festival feels like stepping into a whimsical wonderland.
Committed to sustainability, Shambala creates a green environment while delivering diverse activities for all ages. Families can explore interactive puppet shows, mesmerizing circus performances, and thrilling forest adventures.
Designed to inspire creativity and spark imagination in children, Shambala Festival is the perfect destination for a meaningful and memorable family getaway.
Hay Festival (Wales): Family Friendly Festivals UK: Magical Moments Together
The Hay Festival is a must-visit event for families passionate about literature and creative experiences. This renowned literary festival offers an array of engaging activities designed to spark young imaginations. From interactive storytelling sessions to hands-on music workshops and woodland crafts, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
Young readers can meet their favorite authors, attend book signings, and participate in writing workshops that encourage them to craft their own stories. These unique opportunities inspire creativity and foster a deeper connection to the world of books.
The festival also features captivating puppet shows, lively poetry slams, and enchanting live performances that bring cherished stories to life. While children immerse themselves in these magical experiences, parents can unwind amidst the festival’s picturesque surroundings.
With its vibrant atmosphere and a dedicated children’s program, the Hay Festival is the ultimate destination for families looking to nurture a lifelong love of reading, storytelling, and creativity.
Raver Tots (Various Locations)
Dates: August 17th in Bristol, August 24th in Blackpool, August 25th in Manchester, and August 25th in Southend.
Get ready to unleash your inner child and dance the day away at Raver Tots, where the infectious energy of electronic beats meets the joy of family fun.
As the pulsating rhythms of house, garage, and drum & bass fill the air, kids can bounce to their heart’s content on colorful inflatables or transform into their favorite characters with vibrant face painting.
This unique festival is a kaleidoscope of sound and color, offering an unforgettable experience that bridges generations through music and play.
Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a tiny tot experiencing your first festival, Raver Tots promises a day of laughter, movement, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Kaleidoscope Festival (London)
Dates: July 12
London’s Kaleidoscope Festival at the iconic Alexandra Palace is a dazzling tapestry of sound and color, where the air hums with the rhythm of eclectic music and the laughter of festival-goers.
Art installations transform the historic venue into a wonderland of visual creativity, each piece a testament to the boundless imagination of its creators.
In the family area, children’s eyes widen with delight as they juggle and tumble in circus workshops, their giggles echoing through the grounds.
It’s a place where every corner offers a new adventure, inviting all ages to revel in the magic of artistic expression and shared joy.
CarFest (Hampshire)
Dates: Aug 22 – 24
CarFest in Hampshire, hosted by the iconic Chris Evans, is a premier event for car enthusiasts and families. Nestled in the scenic Laverstoke Park Farm, this family-friendly festival blends classic cars, live music, and charitable giving into an extraordinary experience.
Visitors can explore an impressive array of vintage and modern vehicles while appreciating the farm’s dedication to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. The event highlights the perfect harmony between automotive passion and environmental responsibility.
CarFest goes beyond being a traditional car show, offering a lively atmosphere packed with exciting entertainment and activities for all ages. From thrilling car displays to live performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What truly sets CarFest apart is its commitment to philanthropy, raising substantial funds for children’s charities and supporting their vital missions. This unique festival combines fun with purpose, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Gone Wild with Bear Grylls (Norfolk & Devon)
Dates: Aug 7–10 / Aug 21–24
Gone Wild Festival, launched in Devon in 2021, has showcased the incredible power of nature to unite people. Unlike the distractions of technology and busy routines, this festival fosters meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences.
Recognizing its profound impact on families, the organizers expanded its reach, selecting Norfolk as the perfect location to continue this inspiring journey.
Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees is the cornerstone of this family-friendly festival. With well-planned crowd management strategies and dedicated security personnel, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the festivities without worry.
The festival boasts an impressive lineup of live performances tailored to entertain audiences of all ages. Families can come together to enjoy music, creating cherished memories as they dance and celebrate the vibrant atmosphere.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the English countryside, the event also features engaging survival workshops, adrenaline-pumping obstacle courses, and a variety of outdoor adventures, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Tips for Attending Family-Friendly Festivals
Planning a family-friendly festival trip can be exciting yet challenging. Proper preparation ensures a memorable and stress-free experience for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help families make the most of their festival adventure.
Plan Ahead
For a Smooth Festival Experience Booking early is key to securing discounted tickets and accommodations, saving money for other festival fun.
Families should explore festival maps and schedules in advance to prioritize must-see events and activities. Choosing the right accommodation is crucial—whether it’s traditional family camping or luxurious glamping, select an option that suits your family’s needs and comfort.
Pack Smart with Festival Essentials
Packing the right items can make or break your festival experience. Essentials like wet wipes, ear defenders, layered clothing, and reusable water bottles are must-haves for families.
For easier navigation, especially with kids, consider bringing foldable wagons and ID tags. These small additions can significantly enhance convenience and safety during the event.
Stay Safe and Comfortable Throughout the Festival
Safety should always come first. Equip children with ID bands and establish clear meeting points in case anyone gets separated. To avoid overstimulation, balance structured activities with downtime in designated quiet zones. This approach ensures everyone stays comfortable and enjoys the festival at their own pace.
Conclusion
UK festivals that cater to families offer an ideal environment for bonding, discovery, and shared enjoyment. By these events, families can encounter one-of-a-kind activities and create enduring memories.
With a variety of entertaining workshops and performances, these festivals guarantee a good time for everyone, making them a great option for a special family day out.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Share your favorite festival experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more family travel tips!
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