Reading’s popular Children’s Festival returns for its 37th year

Reading Children’s Festival returns for its 37th year with three exciting weeks of events, activities and unforgettable experiences for children and families across the borough.

The celebrations begin with the ever-popular Forbury Fiesta on Saturday 9 May, launching the festival in style with a vibrant day packed full of fun for all ages.

This year, we’re proud to celebrate the National Year of Reading, with a fantastic programme of book-inspired events and activities woven throughout the festival. From imaginative storytelling to creative workshops, there’s something to spark every child’s curiosity.

Expect a joyful mix of sport, music, arts and crafts, and hands-on fun at venues across Reading. With so much to see and do, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. To help celebrate, we’ll be transforming Forbury Gardens into a giant story time for the day!

Forbury Fiesta’s programme of events is jam-packed with a range of performances, activities and interactive sessions. Put on your dancing shoes and visit the main stage to see the likes of O’Gara School of Irish Dance, The Rock Academy, The Reading Chinese School, Bengali Cultural Association, Chance to Dance Stars and many more incredible performers.

The Forbury Bandstand will see a rhyming extravaganza courtesy of Ziggy’s Music LIVE, as well as story time sessions by Reading Rep and Waterstones. Don’t forget to also visit the Workshop Marquee for Theatretrain’s Matilda, Wicked and Oliver workshops, babyballet® and Vibes by Aaliyah.

If that wasn’t enough, you’ll also find a range of art workshops taking place in the art marquee, a whole host of sporting activities in the sports zone, children’s roleplay scenarios, including a construction site, and information and activities from a host of Reading Borough Council teams.

Throughout the whole of May, the Council will showcase the year-round offer for children across libraries, Reading Museum, parks, playgrounds, leisure centres, Family Hubs and the Ranger Station.

Visit www.reading.gov.uk/childrensfest to download a copy of the Reading Children’s Festival full diary of events where you can find details of all the fantastic events and activities taking place over the three weeks— and don’t forget, many events are completely free.

Louisa Dean, Head of Communications and Marketing at Reading Borough Council, said: “Reading Children’s Festival is an incredible occasion, highlighting all the wonderful events, activities, and clubs available across the borough.

“Whether you’re interested in reading, learning, creating or being physically active, there is something for everyone, not just during the festival, but year-round.

“We have amazing libraries, an exciting Ranger Station, the famous Reading Museum, four new Family Hubs and a wealth of parks, playgrounds and green spaces to enjoy, come rain or shine.

“Forbury Fiesta is always a special day, and I look forward to seeing families experiencing some of what’s on offer, as well as celebrating our children and young people.”