Skip to content

Fun all summer long with free and low-cost activities for kids

Girls’ football, fun activity days, skateboarding and pickleball are just some of the free and low-cost activities available for children and their families to enjoy during the summer holidays.

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are hosting activities and events at locations across the area from 19 July to 31 August.

The councils’ Active Communities team are providing a series of free Xplorer sessions, ‘Born to Move’ fitness and dance sessions and lots more for young children.

Girls aged 5 to 11 have the chance to get involved with football, make new friends and have fun during Girls’ Football sessions, perfect for those who want to give the sport a go for the very first time or with others their own age.

The whole family can come together to enjoy Fun Days, with activities including tag games, cricket, Danish longball, lawn games and more.

Skateboarding and scooter enthusiasts can enjoy competitions, games, prizes and more at the popular Summer of Skate skateboarding events which take place throughout the summer. 

The annual Didcot Garden Party will see lots of events for the whole family taking place from 27 July to 31 August, including musical workshops and performances during Fusion Fest, Communities Come Together Day and Junior Bootcamp sessions.

There will also be a series of Play Days for children, young people and their families hosted by The Oxfordshire Play Association.

The popular Litterbug Detective Trails returns to six locations across the Vale and South Oxfordshire from 19 July to 11 August.  Follow the trails and answer the questions about waste and recycling – you could be in with the chance of winning a great prize!

The activities are expected to be very popular so, where required, book now to avoid disappointment.  

For a full run down of what’s on and details on how to book, visit southandvale.gov.uk/holidayactivities  

Better Leisure Centres across South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse, managed on behalf of the district councils by GLL, also have a range of family activities to get involved over the summer holidays.  Details about what’s available at each centre can be found on the Better UK website and the leisure centre Facebook pages.  The outdoor pools in Abingdon and Wallingford will also be open for those of all ages to enjoy a swim in the sun.

Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council said: “We’re thrilled to kick off the summer with some great activities for children and their families to enjoy.  These popular activities are set to sizzle this summer, and we want every family to be part of the fun.  So, visit our website and book now to secure your spot!” 

Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “Get ready for action-packed, unforgettable summer with some great activities and events for everyone.  It’s a great way to make new friends, create lasting memories and get out and about over the summer.  Make sure you book now to avoid disappointment.”