The Ultimate Family Festival Survival Guide
How to do family festivals in style
There’s something truly special about family festivals. From live music and tasty treats to muddy knees and dancing in the sunshine, they’re full of unforgettable moments. Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or planning your very first one, there are plenty of fantastic UK festivals made with families in mind - and we’ve picked out some of the best.
We’ve put together a handy survival guide and checklist packed with practical tips, plus a round-up of festival-friendly products to help you feel prepared and ready for the fun.
Top UK family-friendly festivals for summer 2026
Raver Tots - Various locations
(Various dates)
Raver Tots is the UK's biggest family rave, where children and grown-ups can hit the dance floor together. Expect live DJs playing at child-friendly sound levels, alongside inflatables, crafts, face painting and plenty of opportunities to dance the day away as a family.
Back Doune the Rabbit Hole – Stirlingshire
(17–19 July)
Returning after its successful relaunch, Back Doune the Rabbit Hole is an independent boutique festival with creativity at its heart. Families can enjoy live music, theatre, art installations, woodland adventures and plenty of space for little ones to explore, all within the beautiful Cardross Estate. It has a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere that makes it a hidden gem for families.
Latitude – Suffolk
(23–26 July)
Much more than a music festival, Latitude is a celebration of creativity, with theatre, comedy, literature, science and live performances all set within beautiful Henham Park. Families are brilliantly catered for too, with dedicated children's areas, woodland adventures, storytelling, crafts and plenty of space to explore together.
Camp Bestival – Dorset
(30 July – 2 August)
A favourite for a reason, Camp Bestival offers music, comedy, theatre and crafts for the whole family. Expect everything from big-name headline acts to circus performances and a dedicated kids' area full of fun. Plus, it's just down the road from our Dorset HQ – we might see you there!
Wilderness – Oxfordshire
(30 July–2 August)
Set amongst the lakes and ancient woodland of Cornbury Park, Wilderness is a magical blend of music, nature and adventure. Alongside an eclectic line-up of live music, families can enjoy woodland crafts, storytelling, outdoor theatre, circus skills, wild swimming and plenty of opportunities to get creative together. It's a wonderful choice for families looking for a festival with a relaxed, outdoorsy feel.
Green Man – Brecon Beacons, Wales
(20–23 August)
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Welsh mountains, Green Man combines incredible live music with literature, comedy and wellness. Little ones will love the dedicated Little Folk area, filled with storytelling, nature activities, crafts and imaginative play.
CarFest – Silverstone, Northamptonshire
(28–30 August)
Created by Chris Evans, CarFest brings together live music, incredible cars, celebrity chefs and plenty of family entertainment, all while raising money for children's charities. From driving displays and fairground rides to hands-on activities and live performances, there's something for every member of the family.
(28–30 August)
Where music, food and family fun come together. Expect chart-topping live music, Michelin-starred chefs, award-winning street food and a fantastic programme of children's entertainment, making it the perfect Bank Holiday weekend for every generation.
THE ULTIMATE FAMILY FESTIVAL SURVIVAL GUIDE
Read on for practical tips to ensure your trip goes without a hitch!
Dress smart (and sustainably!)
Layers are your best friend. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that can be layered up or down depending on the weather. Our Spring Summer 2026 childrenswear collection is full of fun, festival-friendly styles – from reversible sun hats to organic cotton t-shirts and comfy mix-and-match outfits.
Prepare for the weather
Pack wellies and sun cream! British festivals are famously unpredictable, so be ready for mud and sun in the same weekend. Don’t forget waterproofs – our Puddlepacks are ideal.
Snacks, snacks, snacks
While festivals usually have great food on offer, having your own stash of family favourites will help avoid hangry meltdowns between meal queues. We love the range from Organix, who create tasty, organic snacks for little ones that are perfect for on-the-go. Bring reusable water bottles – we love these personalised BPA-free squeezy bottles from Minaym.
Make a mini basecamp
Whether it’s a blanket, beach shelter or wagon, having a ‘home spot’ where little ones can chill, nap or regroup is essential. Hire festival trailers and other equipment from Adventure Kit Hire - kind to your pocket and the planet.
Keep them entertained
Bring small games, books or colouring sets for downtime. Button and Squirt offer beautifully illustrated animal themed flashcards and activity sets that are fun, educational and ethically made in the UK. For creative downtime, Cotton Twist have lovely eco-friendly craft kits that are perfect for festival picnics and quiet moments. Our friends at Boppi offer these amazing travel games to keep kids entertained.
Sun-safe shelter
For a shady chill-out spot, LittleLife offer brilliant pop-up beach tents that are lightweight and easy to carry – perfect for keeping cool (or dry!) wherever you pitch up.
Safety first
Pop a note in your child’s pocket or wristband with your contact number just in case. It’s also helpful to arrange a meeting point if anyone gets separated.
FESTIVAL STYLE FOR LITTLE ONES
Our SS26 collection has been designed with sunny adventures in mind. Breathable, organic fabrics for all-day comfort and practical details such as reinforced knees and plenty of pockets make these pieces perfect for festival fun.
Family festival checklist: Your essential survival kit
Tickets & Admin
Festival tickets (downloaded/saved)
Parking pass or travel tickets
ID, emergency contact info and wristbands for kids
Map of the site (printed or saved offline)
Clothing & Accessories
Layers for all weathers (e.g. Kite tees, jumpers and waterproofs)
Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho
Sun hats and sunglasses
Wellies or waterproof shoes (mud is often part of the fun!)
Comfy trainers or sandals for dry weather
Spare socks and underwear (you’ll be glad you packed extras!)
Sleepwear or cosy evening layers
Essentials & Toiletries
Organic and plastic-free baby wipes like KINDER by NATURE (for everyone!)
Eco sun cream (we love Green People Organic Sun)
Hand sanitiser Neal's Yard Remedies is our top Kite pick)
Plenty of tissues and toilet roll
First aid kit: plasters, antiseptic cream, antihistamines, medicine sachets
Earplugs (for grown-ups!) and blackout eye mask
Food & Drink
Healthy snacks (fruit pouches, crackers, cereal bars)
Reusable water bottles with name labels (find out where the drinking water taps are)
Cool bag or lunchbox with freezer blocks
Picnic blanket
Gear & Gadgets
Wagon or festival buggy for saving little legs and transporting gear
Pop-up beach shelter or UV tent (great for naps and breaks)
Compact camping chairs
Power bank and charging cable
Reusable shopping bag
Waterproof pouch for phones and valuables
A mini fan or mist spray for hot days
Fun & Entertainment
Activity books (try Playpress for build-your-own sustainable sets)
Ear defenders (especially for under-5s)
Compact travel games, colouring books and sticker books
Festival flag to help kids spot your base
Extra Tips
Use packing cubes to organise outfits per day
Bring something familiar for comfort – teddy, blanket, or storybook
Don’t forget a bin bag or reusable wet bag for dirty clothes
Check the festival’s family area opening times in advance
Set up a basecamp early (near toilets, but not too near!)
Agree on a meeting point and plan in case someone gets lost
Whether you’re camping for the weekend or popping in for a day, UK family festivals are the perfect way to create unforgettable memories together. With a little prep (and the right outfits), you're all set for summer fun.