Browse the siteIf you love the idea of a family festival, but hate the idea of travelling to one with the kids, then you’re in luck- Todd in the Hole is the ideal family event and it’s right on our doorstep- between Hitchin and Stevenage from Friday 15th - Sunday 17th July.
We first went to Todd in the Hole back in 2019 with our eldest who was then 2. We’ve been to many festivals ourselves over the years, and really missed going to them, but the thought of carting our exhausted selves (check out the eyebags all round in these pics- he was probably in his starting-the-day-at-4:30am/5 stage right here) was too much to bear. So, when we heard about a family-friendly festival that we could go to for the day and then return to our cosy beds in the evening, it sounded perfect (for those more adventurous families, camping is available, with a dedicated family camping space with hot showers, posh loos and great coffee!).
I can honestly say that it’s one of the best family events we’ve been to and we can’t wait to go again this year having been invited back- it really does offer something for everyone.
The main stage had bands and entertainment throughout the day, from great music tribute acts to the unmissable ‘Great British Elvis Off’, along with smaller stages, stalls, great food, bars, and my husband still raves about seeing famous motorcyclist Dougie Lampkin showcasing his skills.
There was face-painting, glitter art, a giant sand area, Tug-of-War, Chilli eating contests, and generally something going on at every turn! As a huge fans of Glastonbury, it really did have that laid back, yet magical vibe.
But the pinnacle for all parents was the dedicated Kids Arena, nestled away from the main thoroughfare, which had entertainment going on all day Saturday and Sunday, hosted by Gordon Craig’s panto favourite Aidan O’Neill. With bouncy castles, shows, activities and chances for the kids to win prizes, it was a fantastic way for everyone to experience a festival as a family.
Parking was easy and we even got a ride in a trailer back from the festival ground to the car to give our 2 year old’s exhausted legs a rest, which he absolutely loved! Everything about the festival is relaxed, fun and has been so well thought-out.
After the disappointment of having to postpone for the last two years, the Todd in the Hole Festival team has planned an epic lineup of great acts this year, including The Killerz, Amy Winehouse – A Tribute, Wham George Michael Tribute, UK Fleetwood Mac, Rick Parfitt Jnr &RPJ Band, Wrong Jovi, Mused, Dave Pearce, Pat Sharp plus loads more.
The Kids Arena is bigger and better than ever, with returning favourites like Aidan O’Neill, Imajica Theatre and Showtime Circus, along with even more great entertainment from Tiny T’s Storytelling and puppets, DW Soccer, Sandy Art, a vintage fairground, a giant sandpit, performances from Stagecoach, and lots more.
There’s also Folk in the Woods on Sunday, with a dedicated Folk stage nestled in woodland, plus a new Wellbeing area and entertainment from Cabaret in a Caravan and The Great British Elvis Off! If you’re lucky enough to manage some child-free time, there’s also the legendary After Parties in the Todd Woods, hosted by Dave Pearce, Pat Sharp, Lee Hornblower and DJ Riot Girl across the weekend.
If you love the idea of a festival but think they entail rubbish food, filthy toilets, and a nightmare with kids, then Todd in the Hole is the perfect solution and really is a festival that offers something for everyone in the family.
For full details and to book tickets, head to the Todd in the Hole website.
**Use code TODD20 for 20% off Sunday adult tickets**
