Reading Children’s Festival returns for its 37th year, kicking off three weeks of events, activities and experiences for children and families.
From this weekend, celebrations begin with the popular Forbury Fiesta, launching the festival with a day packed full of fun for all ages.
This year’s event celebrates the National Year of Reading, with a programme of book-inspired events and activities woven throughout the festival, including imaginative storytelling and creative workshops.
Forbury Gardens will be transformed into a giant story time for the day, alongside a mix of sport, music, arts and crafts, and hands-on fun at venues across Reading.
There will also be a slew of performances, activities and interactive sessions throughout the day, including from O’Gara School of Irish Dance, The Rock Academy, The Reading Chinese School, Bengali Cultural Association, Chance to Dance Stars and more.
Throughout the month, Reading Borough Council is set to showcase the year-round offer for children across libraries, Reading Museum, parks, playgrounds, leisure centres, Family Hubs and the Ranger Station.
Among the events scheduled are the Abbey Festival of Sport, the West End Musical Theatre Class, and the Pinocchio Workshop, all on May 16; a talk by author Sue Palmer at Fourbears Books and The Night Sky Show with Adrien West, both on May 17;
The Reading Loves Reading half term event taking place in libraries across the town from May 23-29, and Reading Museum is running a full program of events, also from Saturday May 23.
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.”
A full run-down of all of the events set to take place this month as part of Reading Children’s Festival is available via: reading.gov.uk/leisure
