Families across Penrith are being encouraged to pack a picnic and head outdoors this summer as the popular Wild Play Days return with three free events planned across the town.
The programme, organised by Penrith Town Council and Stomping Ground CIC, will bring a mix of music, crafts, games and nature-based activities to community green spaces during the school holidays.
Following the success of last year’s events, which attracted more than 200 young people at both Thacka Beck and Fairhill, organisers have expanded the programme to include a third location in Castletown.
The first event takes place at Thacka Beck Field in Pategill on Friday, July 31, before moving to Fairhill Playing Field in Townhead on August 7.
The final Wild Play Day will be held at Castletown Recreation Ground on August 14.
All sessions run from 11am until 2pm and families are free to drop in and stay for as long as they wish.
A number of local organisations are joining forces to provide activities throughout the summer.
BlueJam Arts will host interactive music sessions at the first two events, while musicians from the Eden Valley Artistic Network will perform across the series.
Children will also be able to take part in crafts, games and outdoor activities led by The Outside Club and the event team, with a focus on creative and nature-based play.
To help make the events as inclusive as possible, My Community – Eden will provide a sensory tent where children and families can take time out from the busier activities if needed.
Councillor Barbara Jayson, chair of Penrith Town Council’s Communities Committee, said the growing programme reflected the popularity of the events.
She said: “Last year’s sessions were a great success, with more than 200 young people taking part at Fairhill and Thacka Beck Field respectively.
“Bringing a third event to the town this summer shows the success of the events and means even more families will have the chance to enjoy free, creative outdoor play close to where they live.”
Cllr Jayson added that she was particularly pleased to see Castletown included this year and thanked Wetheriggs United and Westmorland and Furness Council for enabling the use of the recreation ground.
The Wild Play Days form part of the council’s efforts to provide free activities for families during the school holidays while encouraging residents to make use of Penrith’s parks and green spaces.
There is no charge to attend and no booking is required.
Organisers are encouraging people to walk to the events where possible, bring a picnic, enjoy the entertainment and make the most of a few hours of summer fun outdoors.
