Wakefield Council launches 2026 Summer Holiday Planner
Thursday, July 16, 2026
Wakefield Council has unveiled its 2026 Summer Holiday Planner, giving families across the district a ready-made guide to activities and days out for every day of the school holidays.
The planner covers six full weeks from Saturday 18 July to Friday 28 August and brings together a wide range of events and experiences across Wakefield. Every activity is either free or low-cost, helping families make the most of the summer while keeping spending in check.
“Our popular Summer Planner means families have something to enjoy every day throughout the school holidays, from Saturday 18 July to Friday 28 August.
“We’re lucky to have so many great things to see and do on our doorstep. From outdoor trails and minibeast events to craft workshops, story times and creative Summer s’cool, the planner is packed with ideas to help families make the most of the summer – whatever the Great British weather brings.”
Cllr Lukas Borcz
Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport
With the cost of living continuing to impact household budgets, and the long school holidays fast approaching, Experience Wakefield’s Summer Planner aims to take the stress out of planning – while also supporting local attractions, venues and community spaces.
Highlights this year include the return of Yorkshire’s longest-running free music festival, Clarence Park Festival, Garden Play at The Hepworth Wakefield and the chance to complete noble quests at Knight School at Pontefract Castle.
Visitors can also step inside Helios at WX (Wakefield Exchange) this summer and experience a breathtaking, larger than life encounter with the Sun, surrounded by free, family friendly space activities for all ages.
Families can enjoy the National Coal Mining Museum’s Summer Adventure, featuring a pop-up beach, craft workshops and pony feeding, while the Inclusive Sports Festival at Thornes Park Stadium invites people of all ages and abilities to try new sports in a fun, friendly environment.
The planner showcases events taking place right across the district, from visitor attractions and outdoor spaces to libraries and museums. Activities include a K-Pop Dance Party at WX (Wakefield Exchange), alongside a wide range of drop-in sessions, workshops and family-friendly events in community venues.
While the planner highlights an activity for every day of the holidays, it represents just a snapshot of what’s on offer. Residents and visitors can explore Experience Wakefield’s dedicated summer webpages for Insider Guides and additional event listings, making it easier than ever to plan the perfect day out. Visit www.experiencewakefield.co.uk/summer
Printed copies are available in Council libraries, museums, community centres and family hubs.