Get active this half term with free family fun, shows and exciting activities for all ages
Published 14 May 2026
Young children and their families can dive into a mix of free and budget-friendly fun across the Vale, with plenty of exciting activities and entertainment to enjoy together.
This May half term, Vale of White Horse District Council’s Active Communities team will host a variety of events aimed at children and families. These include free multi-sport fun sessions to Xplorer navigation challenges and a fun active day at Faringdon Leisure Centre.
The activities are expected to be very popular so people are encouraged to book early at southandvale.gov.uk/holidayactivities to avoid disappointment.
At The Beacon in Wantage, children can enjoy a relaxed screening of the beloved children’s classic ‘The Gruffalo’ followed by a stay and play session on Thursday 28 May. And don’t miss the Wantage Children’s Books Festival on Saturday 30 May. A full day of free events and activities to entertain and inspire children and families to get reading. Keep an eye on The Beacon’s website for even more activities coming soon.
Family Fun Swims will be running throughout the holidays as well as Swimming Lesson Courses at the Better Leisure Centres. And preparations have started at Abbey Meadow for the splash pads to open to visitors on Saturday 23 May, just in time for the half term break. More details can be found on the leisure centre’s Facebook pages, Better UK website and app.
Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “These activities will be fantastic for children and families to enjoy together in the May half-term. From fun multi-sport sessions with Active Communities to an inspiring Children’s Books Festival at The Beacon, there’s something for all ages. We encourage families to book early and take advantage of these free and low-cost opportunities!”
For a full rundown of what’s on and details on how to book, visit: southandvale.gov.uk/holidayactivities
