The Five Best Family-Friendly Festivals

A lot of things change when you have children. You get used to functioning on little to no sleep. You wind up knowing more about the characters of Peppa Pig than whatever the latest TV obsession is. And you find that even simple things – like popping out for a few errands – suddenly demand military-precision planning with children in tow.

Yes, life with children is certainly different.

Once upon a time, you might have been making a bee-line for the summer festivals with the best line-up, late-night party scene or out-of-this-world location (here’s looking at you Burning Man). But now you have mini fun-seekers to consider.

Heading to a festival with the kids can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. The key? Make sure you pick a kid-friendly festival. And, travel with other families if you can so you can share babysitting and enjoy a night off. Most importantly, resign yourself to the fact that a festival with the children will not be like your hedonistic glory days. But in many ways, it will be better. Promise.

Here are our top picks of where to go:

1. Camp Bestival, 27 Jul 2017 – 30 Jul 2017 

Where is it?

Lulworth Castle in Dorse

What’s the vibe?

Dubbed the ‘little sister’ of Bestival, this friendly festival is an explosion of colour and fancy dress. Children will love the bouncy castle, insect circus, face painting and the Lego Friends Friendship Party. Kid activities can be found both in a dedicated area and sprinkled throughout the site. Meanwhile, bigger kids should try and head to Morning Mindfulness: A Parent’s Guide to Chilling Out.

2. Wilderness 3 – 6 August 2017

Where is it?

Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire

What’s the vibe?

With a campsite situated right on a lake and plenty of leafy glades to explore, this festival is all about getting away from it all. Mini ramblers will get a real kick out of the Green Caterpillar Forest Overnight Camps, which spirits them away for an intensive fire-lighting, shelter-building, camping experience. Other highlights include the macaroon art workshop, Sharky and George entertainment and yoga classes for the whole family.

3. The Just-So Festival 18 – 20 August 2017

Where is it?

Rode Hall in Cheshire

What’s the vibe?

This delightful festival has ‘stories and childhood escapades at its heart.’ It’s very much a festival for children as opposed to a multi-purpose festival with a very good kid’s programme. Performing artists rove the woods. There is an enchanted fairy kingdom. And an interactive cinema-screen workshop. Magic.

4. The Big Feastival 25 – 27 August 2017

Where is it?

Alex James’ Farm, The Cotswolds

What’s the vibe?

The brain-child of Blur’s Alex James, this foodie festival draws top chefs and world-class music acts to a stunning countryside setting. Children will love the entertainment from Justin Fletcher and Dick & Dom as well as the funfair and cooking workshops.

5. Electric Picnic 1 – 3 September 2017

Where is it?

Stradbally Hall, Co Laois, Ireland

What’s the vibe?

Electric Picnic has been running for nearly 13 years and is probably one of the largest festivals of this bunch. But that doesn’t mean the child-friendly ambience is compromised. Far from it. The Soul Kids area will be rustling up performances, craft workshops and a whole host of activities.