Reading Children’s Festival to launch tomorrow with Forbury Fiesta

Reading’s annual Children’s Festival returns to the town tomorrow, promising once again three weeks of fun and exciting activities.

It launches with the annual Forbury Fiesta and continues through to Sunday, 31 May. Many events are free or low cost, and including sport, music, arts and crafts, and hands-on fun at venues across Reading.

The theme for this year ties in with the National Year of Reading (books that is, not the town), and there are many literary-based activities and events across the calendar. Reading Borough Council says that from imaginative storytelling to creative workshops, there’s something to spark every child’s curiosity.

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.”

What is happening at Forbury Fiesta?

Forbury Fiesta takes place in Forbury Gardens from 11am on Saturday, 9 May. Throughout the day there will be a wide range of activities to watch or take part in.

Children can make a bookmark, hear stories, and see some of their favourite characters come to life. Add in entertainment, workshops, face painting, arts and crafts, balloon modelling and dance displays and it is an action-packed day.

The event takes place whatever the weather and there are marquees available.

Children visiting the art marquee will be able to design bunting that will be used at the University of Reading’s Centenary Community Festival on Saturday 16 May, create art inspired by Elmer the Elephant, and meet the team from jelly.

The Sports Area includes Matt Fiddes Martial Arts, Apollo Gymnastics Academy, VF Fencing Club, MF Dance Workshop, and Avanti Cycling.

Other attractions include the Tilehurst Beekeepers, Reading Borough Council Fostering Team, Launchpad, Bengali Cultural Society, Me2Club, Reading Libraries, New Directions College, Explore Learning, Parents and Children Together, Babies in Buscot Support, Dingley’s Promise, and Tilehurst Junior Youth Club.

There will also be funfair rides, face painting, balloon modelling and refreshments available.

Louise says: “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.”

Main stage

• 11am Fun family workout from GLL
• 11.20am Bengali Cultural Society
• 11.45am St Michael’s Primary School
• 12.20pm The Rock Academy
• 12.45pm Reading Chinese School
• 1.15pm O’Gara School of Irish Dance
• 1.45pm babyballet
• 2.10pm My Dance Lane
• 2.45pm Theatretrain
• 3.30pm Chance To Dance Stars

Forbury Bandstand

• 11.30am Ziggy’s Music Live Rhymetime
• 12.30pm Ziggy’s Music Live Rhymetime
• 1.30pm Teddy Story Time by Reading Rep
• 2.45pm Waterstones Storytime

Forbury Fiesta Workshop Marquee

• 11.20am Theatretrain Matilda workshop
• 12.05pm Afro and Hip Hop Dance workshop with Vibes by Aaliyah
• 12.55pm Theatretrain Wicked workshop
• 1.40pm Afro and Hip Hop Dance workshop with Vibes by Aaliyah
• 2.30pm Babyballet
• 3.10pm Theatretrain Oliver workshop