Free and low-cost family fun all summer long
Families can look forward to an action-packed summer with six weeks of free and low-cost activities taking place across South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse.
Starting on Wednesday 22 July, the holiday programme has been organised by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils’ Active Communities team. It has something for everyone, from skateboarding and cricket to family fun days, outdoor adventures and wellbeing activities.
Kicking off the programme of events are Mini Fun Days taking place at venues across both districts, alongside Family Fun Days at Better Leisure Centres in Thame, Henley, Faringdon, Didcot and Abingdon. Expect days filled with sports, games and fun activities for all ages to enjoy.
Those looking to get outdoors can take part in the Xplorer family navigation challenges in Wantage, Didcot, Kingston Bagpuize and Benson. There will also be Picnic & Play in the Park events, Explorer Walks, and activity sessions in local parks and open spaces across the districts, offering plenty of opportunities to explore local green spaces, stay active and spend quality time together.
For young skateboarding and scooter enthusiasts keen to develop new skills, Summer of Skate returns throughout the holidays with free sessions in Didcot, Thame, Abingdon, Botley and more. Featuring expert coaching by ATBShop, fun games, competitions and prizes, the sessions are suitable for all abilities and no need to book—just show up and have fun.
Children aged 5 to 11 can get involved in All Stars and Dynamos Cricket at Didcot Cricket Club. Running over six weeks, the sessions provide a fun introduction to the sport while helping children build confidence, stay active and make new friends.
Over at Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot, families can enjoy a range of family-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the summer holidays. With more events to be announced, keep an eye on Cornerstone’s website. At The Beacon in Wantage, families can also enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment. Visit The Beacon’s website for the latest programme as more events are announced.
There’s even more to enjoy at Better Leisure Centres across South Oxfordshire and the Vale, with a range of activities taking place throughout the summer holidays. Families can also cool off at the outdoor pools in Abingdon and Wallingford, which will be open throughout the summer for people of all ages to enjoy.
Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We’re thrilled to kick off the summer with a fantastic programme of activities for children and families to enjoy. From outdoor challenges and free family fun days to cricket sessions and skateboarding competitions, there’s something for everyone. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to play, learn and spend quality time together.”
Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Community Health and Wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “This summer is packed with lots of affordable opportunities for families to have fun together. It’s a great chance to make new friends, create lasting memories and get out and about over the summer. We expect these activities to be popular, so we’d encourage families to book early to avoid disappointment.”
Most activities are free or low cost, although some require advance booking. For the full programme, including dates, venues and booking information, visit southandvale.gov.uk/holidayactivities.
