Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
What's On in Derbyshire
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Foster for East Midlands Councils
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: East Midlands
Website: fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk
Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Councils urgently need more foster carers. Foster for East Midlands Councils offers comprehensive training, ongoing support and competitive payments. To...
Genius Tuition's Calm Preparation Programme
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: Genius Tuition
Website: www.geniustuition.co.uk/register-now
The Calm Preparation Programme supports learners preparing for SATs, 11+, KS3 and GCSEs through clear teaching, targeted revision and regular exam-style practice. Ofsted registered and delivered by DBS-checked...
National Forest Adventure Farm
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: National Forest Adventure Farm
Website: www.adventurefarm.co.uk
Explore everything the farm has to offer - huge indoor soft play, exciting outdoor adventure zones, and the animal barn, from 10am – 5pm! It’s the perfect day out for farm fun, fresh air, and plenty...
Outdoor Thursday Market
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/outdoor-thursday-market-2/
A regular market set up outside along the promenade, the first and third Thursday of every month. With local stalls and great finds, April-September, 10am-3pm.
S4 Swim School
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: Various Locations
Website: www.s4swimschool.uk
S4 Swim School celebrates 20 years of helping children become confident, capable swimmers. S4 offers small group lessons where safety, technique and enjoyment are central to every session. New swimmers...
Soft Play Birthday Parties
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: Moorways Sports Village
Website: everyoneactive.com/centre/
A soft play birthday party at Moorways Sports Village will give kids memories that will last for years to come. Parties combine adventure, fantastic fun and safety, all in one go. Moorways Sports Village...
Team Super Sports Holiday Camps
16th March-5th July 2026
Venue: Stafford Grammar School
Website: www.teamsupersports.co.uk
This Easter, their much-anticipated multi-sport camps will run across two weeks: Monday 30th March to Thursday 2nd April and Tuesday 7th to Friday 10th April. Families can join the action at their Stafford...
The Summer Reading Challenge 2026
4th July-12th September 2026
Venue: Derby Libraries
Website: www.derbylive.co.uk
The Reading Agency and Derby Libraries invite children to discover the joy of reading through Read to the Beat! - the music-themed Summer Reading Challenge 2026. Children can explore stories, poetry and...
K-POP All Stars
5th July 2026
Venue: Derby Arena
Website: www.derbyarena.co.uk/events-and-corporate/whats-on/k-pop-all-stars/
K-POP All Stars transforms the stage into a vibrant explosion of sound and colour. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering the magic for the first time, this is your chance to experience the music,...
Children's Happy Hour With 'Marie Beret'
9th-12th July 2026
Venue: Old Club House
Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/events/
Join superchef Marie Beret for a session of pure silly sausageness! Serving up a well-cooked story, filled with interactive deliciousness. Devised by Theatre in Education facilitator Jan Brennan.
Buxton Carnival
10th-11th July 2026
Venue: Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/street-food/
Celebrate the magic of the Buxton Carnival with a feast for the senses! Join in on The Promenade for an incredible two-day outdoor street food festival. Whether you’re craving a mid-afternoon snack,...
Carnival Day Market
11th July 2026
Venue: The Octagon Hall, Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/carnival-day-indoor-market/
A fantastic day of fun, shopping, and community spirit! Take your family, meet up with friends, and make a full day of it. It’s a great opportunity to support local independent businesses while enjoying...
Bramhall's Amusements Funfair on the Promenade
18th-19th July 2026
Venue: Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/bramhalls-amusements-childrens-fair/
Step right up and experience all the excitement of a traditional funfair! From thrilling rides and dazzling lights to classic game stalls and family favourites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy....
Farmarama
18th July-1st September 2026
Venue: National Forest Adventure Farm
Website: www.adventurefarm.co.uk/news/our-events/farmarama/
Join the Adventure Farm as they bring the beach to Burton during the summer holidays. Each day they will be hosting seaside shows, beach-themed crafts, the huge maize maze and last but not least – the...
Indie Crafters Carnival
18th July 2026
Venue: Derby Market Hall
Website: www.derbymarkethall.co.uk/whats-on/indie-crafters-carnival/
The Indie Crafters Carnival will be showcasing a variety of independent creatives, all wrapped up in a playful circus theme! Expect unique handmade stalls, interactive craft activities, pop-up surprises...
Jurassic Day Out
18th July 2026
Venue: Cathedral Quarter
Website: www.derbycathedralquarter.co.uk/events
Step back in time for a prehistoric adventure at Jurassic Day Out in Derby, from 11am-4pm. Returning for its fifth year and bigger than ever, this free family event located at the Market Place and other...
Summer at Chatsworth
18th July-31st August 2026
Venue: Chatsworth House
Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/summer-at-chatsworth/
School's out for summer. Keep young explorers engaged with activities across the house, garden, and farmyard the whole family can take part in. Many of the activities are included in your entry ticket....
The Art of Remembrance
18th July-30th August 2026
Venue: The National Memorial Arboretum
Website: thenma.org.uk/art-of-remembrance
This summer, visitors of all ages are invited to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to discover why art is so important to remembrance. Younger visitors will also be able to join free creative...
The Princess Proms: Derby
19th July 2026
Venue: Derby Theatre
Website: derbytheatre.co.uk
Prepare for a show-stopping performance as they pay tribute to the iconic, heartwarming and nostalgic songs from animations including Frozen, Wicked, K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moana, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty...
Summer Holiday Activities
20th July-6th September 2026
Venue: Conkers
Website: www.visitconkers.com/summer-holiday-activities/
This summer Conkers has a range of activities set to blow your socks off! Offering a a whole day experience with a super range of family-friendly craft and ranger-led activities, all in keeping with their...
Romeo and Juliet
22nd-24th July 2026
Venue: Markeaton Park Craft Village
Website: www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/
A family feud divides the community! Violence stalks the streets. Who can see beyond the hate and dare to follow their heart? Oddsocks return with their new take on this well-loved classic, finding laughs...
In the Night Garden Live
23rd July 2026
Venue: Derby Theatre
Website: derbytheatre.co.uk
Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their fun-filled live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day! You’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life with full-size costumes,...
Summer Cinema - Encanto
23rd July 2026
Venue: Tamworth Assembly Rooms
Website: www.tamworthassemblyrooms.co.uk
An extraordinary family, the Madrigals, live hidden in the mountains of Colombia, in a magical house called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift...
Wildfamilies
23rd July 2026
Venue: Hem Heath Woods
Website: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events/
These two-hour long activities give you and your children the chance to explore the great outdoors, with their Wildchild Team at hand to help you along the way. Swing in hammocks, build a den, try some...
Cinema in the Park
24th-26th July 2026
Venue: Chatsworth Parkland
Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/cinema-in-the-park/
Experience family favourites, sing-a-longs, and a beloved rom-com classic screened in the picturesque Chatsworth Parkland. Friday 24th July: Wicked Sing-a-long (PG), Saturday 25th July: Sing (U) and Mamma...
The Music of Coldplay by Candlelight
24th July 2026
Venue: Derby Cathedral
Website: derbycathedral.org/events/
Featuring a spectacular cast of world-class vocalists and an epic live band, prepare for total Paradise, as you experience Coldplay’s biggest hits, like never before! Get ready to hear all your favourites...
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
24th July 2026
Venue: Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
Website: www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk
The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs...
Miniature Train & Boats
25th July-6th September 2026
Venue: Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/boatstrain/
Make the most of the summer holidays with the return of their classic outdoor activities! The much-loved Miniature Train and Boating Lake will be open every day for family fun. Take a gentle, scenic ride...
My First Concert
25th July 2026
Venue: Lichfield Garrick Theatre
Website: www.lichfieldgarrick.com/events/
Get ready to sing, dance, laugh and cheer in My First Concert - a magical live musical adventure for young children and their grown-ups! Perfect for ages 2–7, this heartwarming, high-energy experience...
Summer Crafts!
25th July 2026
Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum
Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/earth-day-crafts/
A creative day celebrating the start of the summer holidays, suitable for the whole family. Enjoy hands-on crafts in a fun and relaxed setting. Create something special with summer in mind. Free, drop-in...
Summer FoamFest
25th July-31st August 2026
Venue: Manor Farm Park & Woodlands
Website: www.manorfarm.info/events/view/foamfest
Make a splash this summer with FoamFest fun! Get ready for the ultimate summer party as they bring the bubbles with daily foam parties!
Frozen
28th-29th July 2026
Venue: Pavilion Arts Centre
Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/events/
Get ready to Let it Go as Buxton School of Performing Arts presents Disney's Frozen The Musical! Packed with magical moments and unforgettable songs, this show is perfect for all the family!
Superhero Picnic in the Park
28th July-7th August 2026
Venue: Allestree, Chaddesden, Darley and Chellaston Parks
Website: www.inderby.org.uk/parks/events/superhero-picnic/
Enjoy the Superhero Picnic in the Park, taking place at Allestree, Chaddesden, Darley and Chellaston parks. To take part in the fun, dress up like a superhero and bring a picnic! Attractions will vary...
Wildfamilies Pond Dipping
28th July 2026
Venue: The Wolseley Centre
Website: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events/
Discover what creatures call the Wolseley Centre home. Find out who lurks beneath the depths of the pond!
Make a Memory Game
29th July 2026
Venue: Museum of Making
Website: derbymuseums.org/event/make-a-memory-game
Tinker with wood and have a go at drilling, cutting, sanding and assembling. Join the facilitators who will help you to create your own wooden memory game. Suitable for families, all children must be supervised...
Live Opera: The Magic Flute
31st July 2026
Venue: Chatsworth Rose Garden
Website: www.chatsworth.org
Discover Mozart's timeless coming-of-age story, The Magic Flute, performed in English by touring company 'Opera Anywhere'. Opera Anywhere specialises in relaxed, accessible and joyful performances of popular...
Inflatable Fun Sessions
1st August-3rd September 2026
Venue: The Octagon Hall, Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/inflatable-fun-sessions-3/
Get ready to jump, slide, and bounce! The indoor inflatable wonderland guarantees hours of active fun, and it’s the perfect way for the kids to burn off that extra holiday energy whatever the weather....
Buzz
2nd August 2026
Venue: Outdoor Opera House, Buxton
Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/events/
Meet Betty the beekeeper. She’s just passed her beekeeping exams and is very excited to start work, but all Betty’s bees have disappeared! Can she find her bees (and her picnic), and save her new job,...
Summer Circus Spectacular
4th-7th August 2026
Venue: Manor Farm Park & Woodlands
Website: www.manorfarm.info/events/view/circus
The circus is coming to Manor Farm Park & Woodlands. Get ready for big-top entertainment, farm park favourites and plenty of summer fun. Your ticket includes entry to one of four circus performances (11.30am,...
Playday at The Wolseley Centre
5th August 2026
Venue: The Wolseley Centre
Website: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events/
Visit on national Playday for a fun-filled day for you and your family. There will be lots of activities to enjoy, including grass sledging, the obstacle course, forest school activities, the wonderful...
Peppa Pig's Big Family Show
7th-8th August 2026
Venue: Regent Theatre
Website: www.atgtickets.com/shows/
With a new arrival on the way, the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done, it’s an oinktastic makeover. There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished...
Dino Day
8th August 2026
Venue: Maze 52
Website: www.maze52.com/events
Enjoy an unforgettable experience featuring dinosaur walkabouts, where lifelike dinos will roam and interact with children for photo ops, high-fives and maybe a few friendly roars! It’s a day packed...
The European Athletics Championships 2026
10th-16th August 2026
Venue: Alexander Stadium, Birmingham
Website: birmingham26.com
Enjoy the ultimate family day out watching world-class athletes up close this summer. A family of four can attend from £33. Visit the website for the full timetable and to secure tickets to be part of...
CBeebies House Party Live!
15th August 2026
Venue: Vaillant Live
Website: vaillantlive.co.uk
The must-see family show is produced by the team behind CBeebies House and CBeebies Bedtime Stories, and directed by CBeebies superstar, Justin Fletcher. It celebrates inclusivity and togetherness, with...
Ride the Mod Wave
15th August 2026
Venue: Derby Market Hall
Website: www.derbycathedralquarter.co.uk/events/ride-the-mod-wave/
Get ready for a celebration of MOD culture in the heart of Derby this August. Expect music, vintage fashion, scooter displays, dance, and retro-inspired entertainment across the city centre. From iconic...
Peter Pan
21st-22nd August 2026
Venue: Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
Website: www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk
When Peter flies into a London nursery and teaches the Darling children to fly, they are whisked away to Neverland – a magical world of fairies, mermaids and the villainous Captain Hook. A fantastic...
The Darley Park Weekender
21st-22nd August 2026
Venue: Darley Park
Website: www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/
The Darley Park Weekender returns in August! Billy Ocean takes to the stage on Friday 21st August and will be joined by special guest Marti Pellow, alongside Katrina of Katrina and the Waves. On Saturday...
The Darley Park Concert
23rd August 2026
Venue: Darley Park
Website: www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/the-darley-park-concert-2026/
The Darley Park Concert has been a brilliant introduction to classical music for children for over 35 years. Sinfonia Viva will perform a spectacular soundtrack from dramatic films and musicals, with the...
Grass Sledging Drop In at The Wolseley Centre
27th August 2026
Venue: The Wolseley Centre
Website: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events/
Looking for a fun-filled activity that will bring smiles to everyone's faces? Whether you're a family seeking a new outdoor experience or simply looking to try something different, grass sledging offers...
The National Space Centre StarDome – A Portable Planetarium
27th August 2026
Venue: Museum & Art Gallery
Website: derbymuseums.org
As they welcome visitors to the Wright of Derby: From the Shadows exhibition and view Joseph Wright's famous 'A Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery' painting, step into the Dome to learn more about the...
Victorian Train Weekend
29th-31st August 2026
Venue: Midland Railway Butterley
Website: www.midlandrailway-butterley.co.uk/whats-on/victorian-train-weekend-5/
Step back in time to the golden age of rail travel. Beautifully restored vintage carriages will be brought out of the museum and steam-hauled along the line, offering visitors a rare chance to experience...
Toy Fair
30th August 2026
Venue: Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/toy-fair/
The long-running Buxton Toy Collectors Fair has 150 stalls featuring a wide range of new and old collectables for sale. 10:30am - 12pm.
Chatsworth Country Fair
4th-6th September 2026
Venue: Chatsworth House
Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/chatsworth-country-fair/
Enjoy three action-packed days of thrilling Grand Ring entertainment, inspirational cookery masterclasses, food, shopping and plenty of have-a-go activities, including a vintage funfair, children's climbing...
Be Like Blippi
12th-13th September 2026
Venue: Vaillant Live
Website: vaillantlive.co.uk
Blippi is coming to your hometown in the all-new Be Like Blippi Tour! With Blippi’s signature mix of play, learning, and exploration, families can get curious together while singing, laughing, and dancing...
The Dinosaur That Pooped
12th September 2026
Venue: Lichfield Garrick Theatre
Website: www.lichfieldgarrick.com/events/
Adapted from the best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand-new story for the stage. Featuring new songs by Tom and Dougie, a lot...
The Night Sky Show
13th September 2026
Venue: Regent Theatre
Website: www.atgtickets.com/shows/
Using amazing big screen visual effects, The Night Sky Show will take you on a fantastic and epic journey across the cosmos. Astronomer and author Adrian West (aka VirtualAstro) presents a glorious visual...
An Evening of Magic
19th September 2026
Venue: Buxton Opera House
Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/events/
Witness a spectacular show featuring illusion, discerning mystery, theatrical award-winning magic, and laugh-out-loud comedy. Suspend your disbelief and allow yourself to be amazed. Guaranteed entertainment...
Derby Festé
26th September 2026
Venue: Derby City Centre
Website: www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/derby-feste/
Transforming Derby City Centre into a vibrant playground of creativity, the city’s free outdoor arts festival invites you to a family-friendly celebration. Watch as the streets become a stage for a spectacular...
Toy Fair
4th October 2026
Venue: Pavilion Gardens
Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/toy-fair/
The long-running Buxton Toy Collectors Fair has 150 stalls featuring a wide range of new and old collectables for sale. 10:30am - 3pm.
The Mystery of Lichfield Garrick
10th October 2026
Venue: Lichfield Garrick Theatre
Website: www.lichfieldgarrick.com/events/
An award-winning board-game style theatre show where your skills are needed to solve this thrilling murder mystery. Can you crack the case together? Expect intrigue, spontaneity, and a sprinkle of magic.
The Borrowers
13th November-23rd January 2027
Venue: New Vic Theatre
Website: newvictheatre.org.uk
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the New Vic Theatre is bringing back its much-loved 2014 production of The Borrowers. Perfect for families, this enchanting festive production follows a courageous journey...