Kids and Family 2023

As well as the fantastic music, there are tons of activities and entertainment for the youngsters again this year. Most happens on Saturday and Sunday, but there are arts and crafts on Thursday and Friday too. See below for the entertainment booked for this year and below that an amazing gallery of pictures.

And remember, children under 12 get free festival entry, and 12-17 year olds get discounted tickets.

Fire Circle

Dan the Hat

Making a brilliant return to GTSF, comedian, juggler and stupid stuntman who's been loved by all (including the kids!) at previous festivals.

Loads of skills, an abundance of audience interaction (whether they like it or not) and a whole heap of improvised silliness. You will not be disappointed. "An infectious mix of mirth, mayhem & manipulation" - Theatre & circus producer - Glastonbury Festival . "Effortlessly engaging, testament to his popularity and skill"- Theatre tent producer - Beautiful Days Festival.

Nutty Noah

Since new years eve 1995, Nutty Noah has been terrorising the good people of Earth with his unique family entertainment shows.

Bringing his own brand of side-splitting nuttiness to GTSF, his award-winning shows includes cheeky original songs, crazy music and amazing magic. He mixes music with humour and plays some very unusual instruments, one of which he invented himself. He's one of the most in-demand family entertainers in the country, and won the title of UK Family Entertainer Of The Year 2018.

Becky Bops

Get ready to giggle and groove with Becky Bops! Music and movement sessions for Babies and Toddlers! Our Children’s Festival Co-ordinator Becky Syson, has been involved with the festival for a good number of years and besides providing valuable assistance and advice throughout the year to ensure we have a great children’s programme, provides her own Toddle Bops and Baby Bops sessions for the very young.

These aim to encourage confidence and learning, expression and creativity in a fun light-hearted way through music! As Becky says, “We all love music and through it we can engage with our little ones even before they can walk or talk!” Join Becky Bops for songs, rhymes and musical fun for Babies and Toddlers

Walk the Lines - Storytelling

Original and classic stories brought to life by Mark Fraser, a Southwell regular and favourite. Mark creates his own stories as well as adapting classic folk tales and songs. He has written and illustrated numerous books and travels all over the UK telling stories to children, families, adults and just about anyone who is prepared to listen.

Not always a “stick and a stool” storyteller, he likes to leap around, crouch, bend, fall over and stand on his head, (though that rarely happens).

Mark uses puppets, props and costume to present his stories, most of which are handmade, lending a certain air of fragility as though everything is held together with a thread and a glue gun (which it is!). Plus don't miss Jacob Crackers 'Slightly Spooky' Stories told as twilight falls... Not for the faint hearted!

Paul Carbuncle

Hailed by Mark Radcliffe as "the irascible librarian's Kate Rusby", it's a barely expressible joy to welcome Paul Carbuncle back to GTSF, accompanied by his daughter/boss, Tibbie Star.

Expect light-sabres, squirrels, and a fairly high body-count!

Kids' Music Workshops

Ukuleles, bodhran and squeezebox workshops for kids! We have the instruments... You bring the enthusiasm!

Such a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to try their hand at playing a music instrument with helpful guidance from our friendly festival team.

Shindigs of Sherwood

The Shindigs of Sherwood are a local family run business that make large festival style games for all ages! Think giant four-in-a-row and tall tumbling towers!

Taking inspiration from nature they provide a world of fun and games for little ones, a fantastic hands on play zone to explore and enjoy. Think playhouses, climbing frames and giant bubbles!

White Post Farm

(Saturday only) One of the East Midland’s most popular tourist attractions, White Post Farm provides a unique day out with plenty of opportunities to get up close to the animals! With more than 3,000 animals including classic farm animals such as cows, goats and pigs, as well as some more exotic animals such as llamas, wallabies and reptiles.

We a super excited to have White Post Farm Road Show bringing along some of their wonderful animals for us to meet.

Family Yoga

Join in our Family Yoga on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with Paula.

Yoga provides a wonderful opportunity to spend some quality, happy and healthy time together... It's perfect for all ages to join in!

Soul Sensory

‘All are welcome here’ Soul Sensory will be providing nature based sensory play for all. Striving for inclusivity and acceptance we provide a safe, understanding space at GTSF with a range of multi-sensory activities for all abilities and ages.

Raising awareness about neurodiversity we are passionate about accessibility for all... Think sensory tuff tray with hands on activities!

Festival Fairies

Selfies with the Festival Fairies

Adding a sprinkle and sparkle of magic to GTSF our friendly festival fairies will be fluttering around all weekend!

Arts and Crafts by Made of Leaves

Always a big hit, our 'drop in' Kids Arts and Crafts area is run by 'Made of Leaves' and will be open every day for kids of all ages to explore their creative sides!

Focusing on recycled arts and crafts we aim to provide artistic space that encourages freedom of expression but also encourages children to care for their environment. All Crafts are FREE to make and take.

Books and Baby Chillout Zone

We know how important it can be to provide a cosy corner for little ones to chill out in especially when they get over stimulated.

Our Books and Baby Chillout Zone aims to provide a little area of calm for you and your little ones to recharge! Older kids are welcome to cosy up with a book too in this safe space.

Family Ceilidh/Dance Workshop

Fun for all the family! Please join us for our family friendly ceilidh/dance workshop.