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Enjoy massive magic, multi-sports and much more this February half-term

Multi-sports, yoga, boxercise and a massive magic show are just some of the free and low-cost activities available for children and their families to enjoy this February half-term.

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are providing the activities and events at venues across the area from 11 to 18 February. 

The activities are expected to be very popular so, where required, residents are encouraged to book now to avoid disappointment.  See below for a full run down of what’s on and how to book.

Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing at South Oxfordshire District Council said: “We’ve got some great things lined up for children, teenagers and families to enjoy together in February, from dance to puppetry and much more!  Book now and create some lasting memories this half-term!”

Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “Whether it’s dinosaur fun or a multi-sport party, there really is something for all young minds this February half-term.  From those who love to get active and run around to children who like things at a slightly slower pace, there’s sure to be an activity or event that your child will enjoy, so make sure you book before it’s too late!”

Get out and about with the Xplorer Family Fun Challenge 

Suitable for all ages, Xplorer is a free family friendly orienteering challenge that’s both fun and educational. Using a simple map, find the markers that are located around the park and learn some fun facts to tell your friends.

All Xplorer events take place from 10am to midday – just turn up on the day or, to book a place, visit: southoxon.gov.uk/HolidayActivities or whitehorsedc.gov.uk/HolidayActivities

  • Monday 12 February: Henley – Makins Recreation Ground, RG9 1TE
  • Tuesday 13 February: Wallingford – Bullcroft, OX10 0BX
  • Thursday 15 February: Shrivenham – Shrivenham Recreation Ground, SN6 8AU

It’s a Multi-Sport Party for 4 to 12-year-olds!

Fun for all the family, come along and join in with tag games, ball games, obstacle courses and more. 

  • Tuesday 13 February:  
    • Berinsfield – Abbey Sports Centre, OX10 7NR
      • 1.30pm-2.30pm: ages 4 to 7
      • 2.30pm-3.30pm: ages 8 to 12
    • Marcham – Marcham Centre, OX13 6TY, 10am-midday ** Please note this session is now fully booked **
  • Wednesday 14 February:
    • Botley – Fogwell Recreation Ground, OX2 9SA, 10.30am-midday.  This session also includes family games.
    • Didcot – Didcot Leisure Centre, OX11 8AY.
      • 10am-11am: Ages 4 to 7
      • 11am-midday: Ages 8 to 12
  • Thursday 15 February: Thame – Thame Leisure Centre, OX9 2BB, 1.30-2.30pm.  Ages 4-12.

Reserve your place now by visiting southoxon.gov.uk/HolidayActivities or whitehorsedc.gov.uk/HolidayActivities

Make a ‘Love Bug’ and experience breath taking puppetry at Cornerstone 

There’s craft and theatre for all the family to enjoy this half term at Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot, OX11 7NE.

  •  Massive Magic Show – family favourites Morgan & West start the half term break’s entertainment at 2pm. This show is guaranteed to delight those aged five and 105 and everyone in between. Tickets £12, Under 16s £10
  • Valentines craft session – Children can make their own ‘Love Bug’.  From 11am to midday.  £8 per child
  • Sunday 18 February: The Adventures of the Little Red Hen. This much-loved story features a breath-taking combination of brilliant puppetry, live music and unforgettable comedy. Tickets are £14 and under 16s £12.

Book now via the Cornerstone website or by calling the box office on 01235 515144.

Serve, spin and smash at table tennis

Whether you’re a beginner, or a bit of a pro, everyone is welcome at this fun and free session.

Dance your time away

Come along and learn new moves like the cross steps; helicopter and a short routine. The class with have a street commercial base with elements from ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary.

Activities for teenagers

Thursday 15 February: Thame – Thame Leisure Centre, OX9 2BB. 2.30pm-3.30pm.  Ages 12+.

  • Boxercise – give boredom a knockout blow and punch up your fitness with this fun session.  
  • Badminton and multi-sports – get ready to hit the court, break a sweat and shuttle your way to fitness fun.

Booking essential for both activities, visit southoxon.gov.uk/HolidayActivities

Dinosaur fun at The Beacon

For young members of the family who love dinosaurs The Beacon in Wantage (OX12 9BX) is the place to be.  For more details on these sessions, visit The Beacon website.

  • Monday 12 February:
    • Dinosaur-themed Monkey Mayhem soft play for under 5s – from 9.30am-11.30am, £4.50 per child or £8 for two children.  No booking required.
    • Dinosaur family yoga and storytelling – 10am-11am yoga. 11am-11.30am storytelling. Free. Spaces limited so booking is essential. **This session is now fully booked. If you would like to be added to the waiting list please email: active.communities@southandvale.gov.uk **
  • Tuesday 13 February:
    • Dinosaur Arts and Crafts – 10am to 11.30am.  £3 per child. For children up to age 10. Booking recommended.
  • Wednesday 14 February:
    • it’s dinosaur movie day! Just £3.50 a ticket!
      • 11am – Good Dinosaur – this is a family cinema – and a great chance to introduce your child to their first cinema experience!  The screening will have mats at the front of the seating for children to sit on if they wish. Booking recommended.
      • 2pm – Jurassic Park – yes, it’s the chance to show the Spielberg classic to a new audience on the big screen (or watch it for the tenth time)! The Beacon bar will be open for snacks and refreshments. Booking recommended.
  • Thursday 15 February:
    • Dinosaur-themed Monkey Mayhem soft play – £4.50 per child or £8 for two children. No booking required.
      • Under 5s: 9.30am to 11.30am,
      • 5 to 8-year-olds: 1pm to 3pm.
  • Friday 16 February: Dinosaur Adventure Live – Trouble on Volcano Island. This amazing, immersive and interactive show is guaranteed to be an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. Shows at 2pm and 4.30pm. Tickets £14.  Booking required.

Enjoy free art and exercise

Monday 12 February: Abingdon – Unit 24, Bury Street, OX14 3QT

  • Childrens’ Art Session – let your little ones unleash their creativity through fun and engaging art activities.  For children aged 5 to11.  10.30am-11.30am
  • Family Circuits – a great way to get fit, have fun and spend time with family members.  Ages 11+ and must be accompanied by an adult.  11.45am-12.45pm

Book now by visiting whitehorsedc.gov.uk/HolidayActivities  

Ends 

Notes for editors:

There’s more information about activities co-ordinated by the councils’ Active Communities team at southoxon.gov.uk/activecommunities and whitehorsedc.gov.uk/activecommunities