Festival season is officially here, and if you’re a parent, you know bringing babies and young children along is equal parts magical and (let’s be real) a tad chaotic. But with the right prep, and a few clever essentials, you can turn any festival into a joyful adventure for your little explorers. Whether you’re planning a day at the Portsmouth Kite Festival or braving the legendary Glastonbury, here’s how to make the most of it, plus our top Edith & Blanche picks to keep your crew happy, comfy, and stylish.
Why Bring Kids to Festivals?
Festivals are about more than just music and food trucks—they’re a chance for families to play, explore, and soak up culture together. Bringing children along opens up a world of new experiences: from kite-flying spectacles to creative workshops, these events are packed with activities designed for all ages. Kids get to dress up, run wild, and discover new things, whether it’s trying a new craft, tasting a fun snack, or watching a live performance for the first time. Festivals help spark curiosity, encourage social skills, and build lasting family memories. Plus, you get to enjoy that festival buzz guilt-free, knowing your little ones are learning and having fun right beside you. It’s a wonderful way to nurture their sense of adventure and introduce them to the vibrant community spirit that makes festivals so special.
Must-Visit Family Festivals in 2025:
Portsmouth Kite Festival
Watch the sky fill with colour at Southsea Common! This free festival is a visual treat for kids, with giant kites, workshops, and plenty of space to picnic and play.
Victorious Festival
A Portsmouth classic! The Kids Arena is packed with circus skills, face painting, and baby-friendly chill-out zones—plus all the practical bits like baby-changing.
Festival Essentials: What to Pack
Packing for festivals with kids is an art form. Here’s what we recommend (and what you’ll find at Edith & Blanche):
1. Reusable Water Bottles
Stay hydrated! Our colourful, leak-proof bottles are perfect for little hands and easy to spot in a packed bag.
2. Hair Accessories
Sparkly clips and playful headbands keep hair tidy (and make for adorable festival photos).
3. Backpacks
A mini backpack lets kids carry their own snacks, toys, or raincoat—big independence points!
4. Sun Hats
Protect little faces from the sun with bright, reversible hats—bonus style points for festival snaps.
5. Sunglasses
Keep sensitive eyes safe and add a cool finishing touch to any outfit.
6. Splashsuits & Raincoats
British weather is famously unpredictable! A lightweight splashsuit means you’re ready for mud, rain, and all sorts of messy fun.
7. Wellies
Essential for puddle-jumping and muddy fields—easy on, easy off, and super comfy for little feet.
8. Sunscreen
Don’t forget a child-friendly, high-SPF sunscreen. Apply before you leave and top up throughout the day, especially if little ones are in and out of water or rolling in the grass.
9. Portable Changing Mats & Wipes
Essential for quick changes, especially if you’re festival-hopping with babies.
10. Reusable Snack Pots or Lunchboxes
Snacks = happy kids! Pack plenty of treats in reusable pots to avoid hangry meltdowns.
11. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Great for protecting little ears at louder events or if your child is sensitive to noise.
Top Tips for a Smooth Festival Day
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Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and find the best picnic or buggy-friendly spots.
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Check Facilities: Look for baby-changing, feeding tents, and quiet zones for naps or downtime.
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Dress for Mess: Festivals are all about fun! Choose bright, comfy clothes that can handle grass stains and ice cream drips.
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Layer Up: Even in summer, UK weather can turn. Pack layers, a splashsuit, and a sun hat so you’re ready for anything.
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Set a Meeting Point: For older kids, agree on a safe spot to meet if you get separated.
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Keep Hands Free: A backpack or crossbody bag for you means you can chase after speedy toddlers or carry a baby with ease.
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Go With the Flow: Sometimes the best moments are unplanned—let your little ones lead the way and leave room for spontaneous fun.
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Bring a Picnic Blanket: Perfect for snack breaks, naps, and a home base for your family.
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Take Plenty of Photos: Capture the magic, the mess, and those muddy, giggly faces—these are the memories you’ll cherish.
Ready to Festival Like a Pro?
Whether you’re kite-watching in Southsea, crafting at the Family Fringe, dancing at Victorious, or braving the legendary Glasto mud, a little planning (and a lot of snacks) go a long way. Check out our festival-ready collection to stock up on all the essentials, and don’t forget to tag us in your festival adventures - #SustainableJoyForLittleAdventurers!
Want to see more festival essentials in our shop? Let us know if you’d love links for reusable snack pots, child-friendly sunscreen, or anything else. We’re here to help make your summer adventures extra joyful!
