Reading Children's Festival

Reading Children’s Festival 
A Festival of Discovery and Imagination 

The Reading Children’s Festival is one of the town’s most celebrated family events, bringing together children, young people, schools, community groups, cultural organisations, artists, performers and residents for a programme of creative, educational and inclusive activities. In 2027, the festival will take place under the theme “The Year of the Normans”, exploring the profound impact of Norman history on Reading and celebrating the rich heritage that continues to shape our town nearly a thousand years later.

Taking place throughout May, the festival will transform Reading into a vibrant stage for discovery, imagination and participation. Through workshops, performances, exhibitions, storytelling, hands-on activities, community projects and family-friendly events, children and families will be invited to step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, stories and innovations of the Norman period. By connecting local history with creativity and play, the festival will encourage young people to explore their heritage, develop a sense of place and understand how the past continues to influence the present.

At the heart of the programme will be the story of Reading’s Norman origins. The foundation of Reading Abbey in 1121 by King Henry I marked a pivotal moment in the town’s development, establishing Reading as one of the most significant centres of religion, power and commerce in medieval England. The Norman influence can still be seen today in the town’s landscape, architecture, governance and cultural identity. The festival will use this unique local history as a springboard for learning and engagement, making history accessible, relevant and exciting for modern audiences.

The Year of the Normans theme provides an exceptional opportunity to bring together heritage organisations, educational institutions, artists, performers and community partners in a shared celebration of Reading’s history. Through collaborative programming, the festival will create meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity, foster creativity and strengthen connections between communities.

A Festival of Discovery and Imagination

The 2027 festival will be designed for children and families, presenting history through imaginative, interactive and age-appropriate experiences. Rather than learning about the Normans through traditional methods, participants will be invited to become builders, storytellers, musicians, artists, craftspeople and explorers.

Throughout the month, families will take part in a wide range of activities suited to different ages and interests, such as building a giant Norman castle, creating illuminated manuscripts, learning medieval dances, joining archaeological workshops, designing heraldic shields, and following interactive trails across the town.

Storytelling will play a central role in the programme, with professional storytellers and performers bringing to life tales of kings, queens, knights and local legends. Through theatre, puppetry and immersive performances, children will be transported to medieval Reading and connect with its history.

Creative workshops will allow participants to explore Norman culture through traditional crafts such as weaving, stone carving, calligraphy, stained-glass-inspired art and textile design, while gaining insight into daily life in the medieval period.

Music and performance will also play a key role, introducing medieval instruments, songs and traditions. Community choirs, schools and youth groups will contribute their own interpretations, blending historical inspiration with contemporary creativity and showing how traditions evolve over time.

Practical information 
Young public (0 – 11 years) 
Free admission 
Enquiries: events@reading.gov.uk