Dragons, Disco, and Delight: A Magical Family Festival
What happens when you mix mythical creatures, music, and a dash of creativity? You get one unforgettable family day at The Courtyard! This year’s celebration was nothing short of spectacular, bringing together families, schools, and community partners for a jam-packed day of fun.
A Day Full of Bookable Adventures
We hosted 13 exciting bookable sessions, each offering something unique for all ages. Including the ever-popular Little Play World for imaginative play, Interactive Storytelling with Cathedral School, Silent Disco, Mythical Makers crafty sessions, and of course ending the day in true Family Festival style with our sell out Family Rave. Alongside the bookable activities, families enjoyed a variety of drop-in experiences including: decorating mythical masks, badge making, outdoor fun with WyeKnot, dress up corner and we simply could not do his event without biscuit decorating!
With 415 attendances across the bookable sessions, and a steady stream of people enjoying the drop-in activities throughout the day, the buzz was incredible!
Audiences said: “A great mix of free and paid for activities, all great fun and a lovely variety.”
Creating an Inclusive Space
From 10:00 to 11:00 am, we introduced a Quiet Hour – lower capacity, reduced noise, and a calmer environment. Making the first part of the day more accessible for individuals with sensory sensitivities. We set up a chillout space for the full day, for those that needed a bit of a break from the noise and excitement. This small change hopefully made a big difference.
Young Talent Takes the Stage
Our Intermediate Youth Theatre group (24 talented teens aged 14–16) wowed audiences with Once Upon a Legend, devised in collaboration with Carnival Arts. Despite the weather forcing a change of plans, the group adapted brilliantly – performing at The Courtyard, parading through the Old Market, and finishing with a vibrant finale. Carnival Arts collaborated with Brookfield Specialist School to design and craft a magnificent dragon sculpture, the parade’s showpiece and a striking centerpiece for the entire festival.
Community Spirit
We were thrilled to welcome partners like Starlight Company, who performed a fantastic Hercules-inspired dance piece. We also had and information stands from Herefordshire Museums and Galleries, Talk Community, Community Nurse Team, and Herefordshire Council Fostering Team.
What People Said
The feedback warmed our hearts:
“Thank you for such a brilliant day! We arrived at 10am and didn’t leave until 3pm!”
“Well organised and friendly place to be. I have attended the family day with all 3 of my grandchildren since it started, they have all grown to love being there each year.”
“It was a lovely atmosphere and so kid friendly.”
“Enjoyed the vibe, organisation and friendliness of staff”
Looking Ahead
This event reminded us why community matters – bringing people together through creativity, fun, and shared experiences. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the day magical. We can’t wait to see you next year for our spirit of the sea themed family fun day!
