Kids and Family

As well as the fantastic music, there are tons of activities and entertainment for the youngsters again this year, all run by our very own Becky Syson, who's a local singer-songwriter, musician, artist, children’s author and creator of ‘Becky Bops’.

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.

Musical Mystery Tour

Original songs, tunes, choruses, humourous sketches and audience participation. Hilary James and Simon Mayor have written and presented for such diverse programmes as Play School and The Simpsons

Featuring a wide variety of musical instruments to see and hear: the mandobass, guitar, fiddle, mandolin, banjo, Victorian bodiless fiddle, ukulele and percussion. Sing along with the Parrot-Parrot from Hong-Hong-Kong-Kong and twist your tongue around the Flock of Fat Flamingoes.

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!

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!

Keith Donnelly

Comedy songs and pranks with the effervescent Keith

Choruses to learn and laughs galore.

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.

Children's Ceilidh

Kids love ceilidhs! ome along and learn the moves...