Six weeks of free family fun at district’s markets this summer
Monday, July 21, 2025
Wakefield Council’s markets are set to come alive this summer with six jam-packed weeks of free family fun, from 24 July to 30 August.
From crazy golf and circus skills to character appearances and space discovery, Summer FunFest 2025 is designed to bring families together, and more people into the heart of our high streets.
“This summer we’re creating memorable moments for local families while supporting the traders and small businesses at the heart of our communities. Whether you’re meeting your favourite character or discovering something new, Summer FunFest is all about enjoying our town centres and spending time together.”
Cllr Jack Hemingway
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
Summer FunFest features more than 30 free events across Wakefield, Castleford, Pontefract, Ossett, Normanton and South Elmsall Markets. Highlights include Football Crazy, where kids can test their skills and meet club mascot, Dino Discovery Day with life-size dinosaurs, Seeing Stars with real astronomers, and The Greatest Showman Circus Day. There’s something for everyone, and every event is free to attend.
Castleford Market will host a full week of themed activities from 18-23 August under the banner A Grand Week Out. While special Lego workshops, photo opportunities with characters like Bluey, Stitch, Anna and Elsa, and hands-on crafting with Wakefield Libraries will be popping up at markets right across the district. Whether you're planning a full day out or just dropping by, there’s always something new to see.
The full event schedule is now live at www.wakefield.gov.uk/summerfunfest.