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Inspiration • July 16th, 2026
|Families in Wakefield can look forward to a summer filled with fun and affordable activities, thanks to the newly launched 2026 Summer Holiday Planner. This handy guide, released by Wakefield Council, provides a ready-made list of events and outings available for every day of the school holidays, running from Saturday 18 July to Friday 28 August.
Wide Range of Activities
The Summer Holiday Planner is designed to cater to families looking for exciting ways to spend their summer without breaking the bank. Every activity listed is either free or low-cost, making it easier for families to enjoy the holidays while keeping an eye on their budgets. From music festivals to sports events, the planner showcases a variety of experiences across the district.
Key Highlights
Among the highlights for this summer are:
Clarence Park Festival: Yorkshire’s longest-running free music festival.
Garden Play at The Hepworth Wakefield: A chance to enjoy art and nature.
Knight School: An exciting opportunity for children to complete noble quests at Pontefract Castle.
K-Pop Dance Party: A fun dance event at WX (Wakefield Exchange).
National Coal Mining Museum’s Summer Adventure: Featuring a pop-up beach, craft workshops, and pony feeding.
Inclusive Sports Festival: Taking place at Thornes Park Stadium, this festival invites people of all ages and abilities to try new sports.
Supporting Local Attractions
As the cost of living continues to impact families, the Summer Holiday Planner aims to alleviate some of the stress associated with planning activities. By highlighting local attractions and community spaces, the planner not only provides entertainment but also supports local businesses and venues.
Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, expressed enthusiasm for the planner:
“Our popular Summer Planner means families have something to enjoy every day throughout the school holidays.”
Activities for All Ages
The planner includes events suitable for all ages, ensuring that everyone in the family can find something enjoyable to do. For instance, families can visit Helios at WX, where they can experience a larger-than-life encounter with the Sun, complemented by free, family-friendly space activities. This offers a unique opportunity for children and adults alike to learn and explore together.
Convenient Access to Information
Although the planner provides a snapshot of the events available, it is just the beginning. Residents and visitors can explore the dedicated summer webpages on the Experience Wakefield website for more Insider Guides and additional event listings. This makes it even easier for families to plan their perfect summer days out. The website can be accessed at www.experiencewakefield.co.uk/summer.
Printed Copies Available
For those who prefer a physical copy, printed versions of the Summer Holiday Planner are available in various locations, including council libraries, museums, community centres, and family hubs. This ensures that everyone has access to the exciting activities lined up for the summer.
This summer promises to be filled with adventure and creativity, thanks to the thoughtful planning from Wakefield Council. With a diverse range of activities to choose from, families can look forward to making lasting memories together. Whether it's dancing at a K-Pop party or embarking on a quest at Knight School, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Wakefield this summer.
