Published on 20th May 2016

Arrangements are being finalised for Cheltenham’s first children’s festival which starts next Friday, 27 May.

This exciting new festival is free of charge for all and offers a wide range of events and activities for children and their families to get involved in during Friday 27 and Saturday 28 May.

Just some of the highlights this year include: interactive storytelling with the Everyman Theatre, the ‘Space to Earth Challenge’ with Cheltenham Science Group, and performances by local school children. A full list of events, as well as further information, can be found on the new Facebook page:

The first day will take place in local primary schools with each participating school organising and running the event in their own school grounds.

Day two will be a big community event at the town hall with activities from 10am to 1pm. It will give children and their families the opportunity to play together and explore five broad themes of making music, being healthy, playing outside, telling stories and exploring technology.

Councillor Flo Clucas, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles, said: “I am delighted that Cheltenham's children will be able to take part in our children's festival. We are a town of festivals, but this is a new and exciting venture. It is free for every family and every child.

“Our children are our future and the council and all of the organisations involved want to give our young Cheltonians and their families the opportunity to try out some innovative activities and have some great fun at the same time."

Police and Crime Commissioner, Martin Surl said, “We need sensitive, relevant and effective policing to ensure our young people become law-abiding productive members of society. Events like this enable us to build bridges and offer support where necessary.

“It’s also a good opportunity to share information around cybercrime and how to keep safe on the internet”

Charles Welsh, executive head of Gardners Lane and Oakwood Federation and chair of the Children’s Festival Partnership, added: “The festival is a golden opportunity for children to share some time with the family learning and playing together. The festival will allow everyone to celebrate childhood and recognise children’s achievements.”

The festival partnership is made up of Cheltenham Borough Council, Cheltenham Borough Homes, Gardeners Lane and Oakwood Federation, County Community Projects, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Police and Crime Commissioners Office, The Cheltenham Trust, Cheltenham Festivals, The Everyman Theatre and Cheltenham Science Group.

Refreshments at the town hall will be on sale through the café. Thanks go to Print by Design for kindly producing the Children’s Festival logo.

For press enquiries contact: Laura Carter, communications officer, on 01242 264154 or email [email protected]

Photo opportunities: Please contact Laura Carter, contact details as above, if you’d like to come along on the day for photo opportunities.