Days out in Wakefield: Ready-made guide to activities for all the family during the summer holidays
Wakefield Council has unveiled its 2026 Summer Holiday Planner, giving families across the district a ready-made guide to activities and days out for every day of the school holidays.
The planner covers six full weeks from now until Friday, August 28 and brings together a wide range of events and experiences across Wakefield.
Every activity is either free or low-cost, helping families make the most of the summer while keeping spending in check.
With the cost of living continuing to impact household budgets, and the long school holidays fast approaching, Experience Wakefield’s Summer Planner aims to take the stress out of planning – while also supporting local attractions, venues and community spaces.
Highlights this year include the return of Yorkshire’s longest-running free music festival, Clarence Park Festival, Garden Play at The Hepworth Wakefield and the chance to complete noble quests at Knight School at Pontefract Castle.
Visitors can also step inside Helios at WX (Wakefield Exchange) this summer and experience a breathtaking, larger‑than‑life encounter with the Sun, surrounded by free, family‑friendly space activities for all ages.
Families can enjoy the National Coal Mining Museum’s Summer Adventure, featuring a pop-up beach, craft workshops and pony feeding, while the Inclusive Sports Festival at Thornes Park Stadium invites people of all ages and abilities to try new sports in a fun, friendly environment.
The planner also showcases events taking place right across the district, from visitor attractions and outdoor spaces to libraries and museums.
Activities include a K-Pop Dance Party at WX (Wakefield Exchange), alongside a wide range of drop-in sessions, workshops and family-friendly events in community venues.
Coun Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, said: “Our popular Summer Planner means families have something to enjoy every day throughout the school holidays, from Saturday 18 July to Friday 28 August.
“We’re lucky to have so many great things to see and do on our doorstep. From outdoor trails and minibeast events to craft workshops, story times and creative Summer s’cool.
"The planner is packed with ideas to help families make the most of the summer – whatever the Great British weather brings.”
Printed copies are available in Council libraries, museums, community centres and family hubs.