There’s plenty going on for kids this October half-term, from arts and crafts in Wimbledon Quarter, to live entertainment and creative workshops at the Polka Theatre, plus dance and gym activities, a Halloween trail, a spooky disco….and Wimbledon Bookfest’s Children’s & Family Programme, a focused series of interactive author sessions, draw-alongs, and literacy initiatives.
At Wimbledon Bookfest’s Children’s & Family events in Merton Arts Space, Wimbledon Library, you can join former Children’s Laureate, Chris Riddell in his new adventure under the sea, discovering the world of Mermaids; while for animal lovers, Ed Vere and Mariesa Dulak have got you covered from dogs and cats to tigers and crocodiles. Come for the books and stay for the singing, dancing and drawing!
There’s also a busy week of arts and crafts workshops in Wimbledon Quarter over half-term week. Drop-in sessions run Monday to Friday from 10am to 12 noon – no need to book! Kids can get stuck in to making Halloween masks and monster magnets, crafting witch stories and art, and of course creative pumpkin carving.
Calling all mini monsters to The Old Frizzle Halloween Disco, on Saturday 31 October from 12 noon. Simmering with spooky tunes, dancing, costumes and plenty of frightfully good fun, it’s time to dance, wiggle and party!
And kids can tuck in to some tangy treats with the Bebeto Halloween trail. Just pop in to the Bebeto Shop & Cafe on Worple Road to pick up a trail card and then follow the trail around Wimbledon to collect stamps from participating businesses. Head back to Bebeto for games and prizes.
Pitter Potter is a bright and airy studio, open every day from 10am to 6pm. Book a session to get creative with the kids in a friendly, relaxing environment and make lasting memories together.
The Village School of Dance has four days of dancing, singing, games and lots of craft from Monday to Thursday, 10am to 4pm at St Mark’s Hall. Suitable for 3-12y and days can be booked individually. Limited spaces available – so book soon!
Bursting with energy?! Shake up the half term activities with some physical fun.
The ever-popular holiday camps at Little Gym Wimbledon are open to non-members and offer a mix of gymnastics, games and themed fun, designed to help children grow in confidence while having a blast. Best for 3-8y, with flexible booking including early drop-offs.
Wimbledon Leisure Centre has lots of activities on offer, with friendly staff and trained instructors ensuring everyone is included, from tots to teens. Kids under 16y can also swim for just £1 (accompanying adults’ usual admission applies). Booking is recommended.
There’s a packed programme at Polka Theatre, with three productions suitable for 3-12y, and three workshops during half-term week: Sensory Space Adventure (0-4y), Sea Creature Puppetry (5-8y) and Spooky Stage Set Design (8-12y).
And on Saturday 31 October there’ll be FREE face painting for kids and a live DJ at Love Wimbledon’s Market on The Piazza, 11am to 6pm.
