Snap Dragon Children’s Festival delights families at Argents Mead

The free festival offered a packed programme of activities designed to bring children and families together through play, learning and imagination.

The celebrations began on Monday with a Mythical Magical Moments theme, featuring enchanting activities inspired by stories and fantasy. On Tuesday, Active Hinckley & Bosworth hosted its popular Try It Takeover, encouraging youngsters to get active and try new sports and activities. The festival concluded on Wednesday with Once Upon a National Play Day, highlighting the importance of play and reading in children's development.

Throughout the event, children enjoyed a giant sandpit, a teddy bears' picnic and creative activities in a craft tent run by Hinckley's United Reformed Church. There was also a lively Snappy Disco hosted by local radio station Fosse 107, while demonstrations from Spartans Kickboxing Academy and Lee Academy of Dance and Drama kept audiences entertained.

One of the festival's highlights was the traditional mascot race, featuring Active Together's Boost and Dazzle, Hinckley Leisure Centre's Handsome Tiger and Hinckley BID's Bear. Visitors were also treated to a special appearance from Leicester's Poet Laureate, Mr Shay.

Adding to the magic, Grays Drama Academy gave performances and offered children the chance to meet real-life princesses and fairies, while Tom the Tale Teller captivated audiences with stories filled with myth, magic and adventure.

Festivalgoers were also able to take part in a book exchange, browse a fancy dress swap shop and make use of a calm corner designed to support children with sensitive needs.

Councillor Mark Bools, Deputy Leader of Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, said: "It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces at Snap Dragon this week. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, including Leicestershire Fire and Rescue, Hinckley Police and the many others. We hope everyone had an amazing time and created some unforgettable memories.

"A big thank you to the organisers who made this event such a success. A great time was had by all and we're already looking forward to bringing the magic back next year."

The annual festival once again proved a popular summer attraction, bringing together local organisations, performers and volunteers to create an enjoyable and inclusive event for families across the borough.