The Ultimate Family Festival Survival Guide

Family festival fun

How to do family festivals in style

There’s something truly special about family festivals. From live music and tasty treats to muddy knees and dancing in the sunshine, they’re full of unforgettable moments. Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or planning your very first one, there are plenty of fantastic UK festivals made
with families in mind – and we’ve picked out some of the best.

We’ve put together a handy survival guide and checklist packed with practical tips, plus a round-up of festival-friendly products to help you feel prepared and ready for the fun.

Top UK family-friendly festivals for summer 2025

Camp Bestival – Dorset

(31 July – 3 August)

A favourite for a reason, Camp Bestival offers music, comedy, theatre and crafts for the whole family. Expect everything from big-name headline acts to circus performances and a dedicated kids’ garden full of fun. Plus, it's just down the road from our Dorset HQ – we might see you there!


Green Man – Brecon Beacons, Wales

(14–17 August)

This eco-friendly, indie festival offers a welcoming and relaxed vibe, with
beautiful mountain views and a whole “Little Folk” area for children. Expect
storytelling, crafts and puppet shows, alongside music and great food.


Raver Tots - Various locations

(Various dates)

Raver Tots is the UK’s biggest family friendly rave and festival brand where kids and grownups can hit the dance floor and rave together! There are never ending moments to engage kids and parents and above all, huge dance spaces where you can hear the nations biggest DJ’s playing the best in all forms of dance music.


The Big Feastival – Cotswolds

(22–24 August)

Where music, food and family collide in the best way possible. With top chefs, chart-topping bands and plenty of kids’ entertainment – including appearances from TV favourites – it’s a treat for every age.


Camp Kindling - Kent

(15–18 August)

Set among the trees in a fairytale-like pine forest, this three-night event is described as a summer camp for the whole family. There is so much to choose from here – with live music, adventure pursuits, crafts and comedians.

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY FESTIVAL SURVIVAL GUIDE

Dress smart (and sustainably!)

Layers are your best friend. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that can be layered up or down depending on the weather. Our Spring Summer 2025 childrenswear collection is full of fun, festival-friendly styles – from reversible sun hats to organic cotton t-shirts and comfy mix-and-match outfits.


Prepare for the weather

Pack wellies and sun cream! British festivals are famously unpredictable, so be ready for mud and sun in the same weekend. Don’t forget waterproofs – our Puddlepacks are ideal.


Snacks, snacks, snacks

While festivals usually have great food on offer, having your own stash of family favourites will help avoid hangry meltdowns between meal queues. We love the range from Organix, who create tasty, organic snacks for little ones that are perfect for on-the-go. Bring reusable water bottles – we love these BPA-free squeezy bottles from our friends at Drip Drop.


Make a mini basecamp

Whether it’s a blanket, beach shelter or wagon, having a ‘home spot’ where little ones can chill, nap or regroup is essential. Hire festival trailers and other equipment from Adventure Kit Hire - kind to your pocket and the planet.


Keep them entertained

Bring small games, books or colouring sets for downtime. Button and Squirt offer beautifully illustrated animal themed flashcards and activity sets that are fun, educational and ethically made in the UK. For creative downtime, Cotton Twist have lovely eco-friendly craft kits that are perfect for festival picnics and quiet moments. Our friends at Boppi offer these amazing travel games to keep kids entertained.


Sun-safe shelter

For a shady chill-out spot, LittleLife offer brilliant pop-up beach tents that are lightweight and easy to carry – perfect for keeping cool (or dry!) wherever you pitch up.


Safety first

Pop a note in your child’s pocket or wristband with your contact number just in case. It’s also helpful to arrange a meeting point if anyone gets separated.

FESTIVAL STYLE FOR LITTLE ONES

Family festival checklist: Your essential survival kit


Tickets & Admin

Festival tickets (downloaded/saved)

Parking pass or travel tickets

ID, emergency contact info and wristbands for kids

Map of the site (printed or saved offline)


Clothing & Accessories

Layers for all weathers (e.g. Kite tees, jumpers and waterproofs)

Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho

Sun hats and sunglasses

Wellies or waterproof shoes (mud is often part of the fun!)

Comfy trainers or sandals for dry weather

Spare socks and underwear (you’ll be glad you packed extras!)

Sleepwear or cosy evening layers


Essentials & Toiletries

Eco friendly baby wipes like Aqua Wipes (for everyone!)

Eco sun cream (we love Green People Organic Sun)

Hand sanitiser Neal's Yard Remedies is our top Kite pick)

Plenty of tissues and toilet roll

First aid kit: plasters, antiseptic cream, antihistamines, medicine sachets

Earplugs (for grown-ups!) and blackout eye mask


Food & Drink

Healthy snacks (fruit pouches, crackers, cereal bars)

Reusable water bottles with name labels (find out where the drinking water taps are)

Cool bag or lunchbox with freezer blocks

Picnic blanket


Gear & Gadgets

Wagon or festival buggy for saving little legs and transporting gear

Pop-up beach shelter or UV tent (great for naps and breaks)

Compact camping chairs

Power bank and charging cable

Reusable shopping bag

Waterproof pouch for phones and valuables

A mini fan or mist spray for hot days


Fun & Entertainment

Activity books (try Playpress for build-your-own sustainable sets)

Ear defenders (especially for under-5s)

Compact travel games, colouring books and sticker books

Festival flag to help kids spot your base


Extra Tips

Use packing cubes to organise outfits per day

Bring something familiar for comfort – teddy, blanket, or storybook

Don’t forget a bin bag or reusable wet bag for dirty clothes

Check the festival’s family area opening times in advance

Set up a basecamp early (near toilets, but not too near!)

Agree on a meeting point and plan in case someone gets lost

Whether you’re camping for the weekend or popping in for a day, UK family festivals are the perfect way to create unforgettable memories together. With a little prep (and the right outfits), you're all set for summer fun.

See you in the field!