Fun all summer long with free and cheap activities for kids

Girls’ soccer, fun activity days, skateboarding and pickleball are just some of the free and low-cost activities that children and their families can enjoy during the summer holidays.

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

The councils’ Active Communities team offers a range of free Explorer sessions, ‘Born to move‘ fitness and dance classes and much more for young children.

Girls aged 5 to 11 years old get the chance to get involved in football, make new friends and have fun during Girls soccer sessions, ideal for anyone wanting to try the sport for the first time or with peers.

The whole family can come together to enjoy Nice dayswith activities such as tag, cricket, Danish longball, lawn games and much more.

Skateboarding and scootering enthusiasts can enjoy contests, games, prizes and more at the popular Summer of Skate skateboarding events taking place all summer long.

The annual Didcot Garden Party From July 27 to August 31, numerous events for the whole family will take place, including musical workshops and performances during Merger party, Communities come together day And Junior Bootcamp sessions.

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

The popular Traces of litter detectives returns to six locations across the Vale and South Oxfordshire from 19th July to 11th August. Follow the trails and answer the waste and recycling questions – you could win a great prize!

The activities are expected to be very popular so please book now if necessary to avoid disappointment.

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

Better Leisure Centres in South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse, run on behalf of the district councils by GLL, also have a range of family activities to take part in during the summer holidays. Details of what is available at each centre can be found on the Better UK website and the leisure centre Facebook pages. The outdoor swimming pools at Abingdon and Wallingford are also open for people of all ages to enjoy a dip in the sun.

Councillor Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We’re excited to kick off the summer with some great activities for children and their families. These popular activities will be a hit this summer and we want every family to get involved, so visit our website and book now to secure your place!”

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