FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE FOR FAMILIES IN ESSEX SUMMER HOLIDAY2023 DIARY DATES CYCLING IN ESSEX ELEGANT LIVING ROOMS IS YOUR CHILD TOO ILL FOR SCHOOL? FREE MAGAZINE FOR PARENTS IN ESSEX BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE Spooky Special scaringly good events Halloween Home Inspiration Dazzling Firework Displays GIVEAWAYS: Marsh Farm Lee Valley Park Farm FREE MAGAZINE FOR PARENTS IN ESSEX OCTOBER HALF TERM ISSUE . 106
2 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected]
/kidaroundmagazine /kidaroundmag official.kidaround KidAround Magazine is a digital monthly publication Tel: 07557 053044 | [email protected]. Disclaimer: The copyright and contents of this magazine, including artwork, adverts, logos and articles, when generated by the KidAround team remain with KidAround. Views expressed in editorial and articles are those of the contributor or advertiser and not necessarily of the publisher. The listings, content and advertising in the magazine are for information and advice only. Inclusion does not imply a recommendation from Trew Publishing or its staff. All advertisements and editorial content are accepted in good faith and on the basis that the advertised goods and services are as stated by the advertisers. Contact Us (We are a friendly bunch) [email protected] [email protected] Tel:07557 053044 Anna xx Welcome to the October edition of KidAround Magazine. There's definitely the feel of autumn in the air and the smell of wood burning in the evening now. Although, thankfuly it's been a very mild/indian summer so far which has helped with those rising energy costs. In this issue we have put together our usual diary dates to help fill up those half term days on page 22 with some frightful events on page 24 and Halloween activities which include some download and print fun for you and the kids on page 28. Since we are on the Halloween topic, you will find inspiration on how to decorate your living room with some food ideas too on page 6. And let's not forget fireworks night - we have lots of local display listings which can be found on page 26. Hopefully this issue will keep you busy up to our next, Festive Issue due out on 28th November. Don't forget, all adverts and listings have active link so you can find out more or book direct with the advertiser. If you do speak to any of the advertisers, please do remember to say you saw it here first - it helps a lot. Hello Readers, 12 28 8 Subscribe here DIY Hedgehog House 4 Spooky Special Print and play activities CONTENTS Halloween Inspiration
4 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] I love pulling pages like this together as it fills me with lots of ideas and inspiration - non of which I physically carry out of course. However, I do hope that it helps bring out the creative side in you. Do share your ideas and photos with us via facebook & instagram. Less is more You don't need to redecorate, keep it small and simple with some trinkets and mini pumpkins. Natural log slices make a lovely autumn/winter feature on a table too. Halloween Themed Decor
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 5 Pumpkin Mad - spray paint those pumpkins or if you can, try this cute knitted ones. Food/table inspiration
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8 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] ADVERTS
Colchester Museum – meet Father Christmas Colchester Castle’s magical grotto is back for 2023! Together with his helpers, Father Christmas will be spreading plenty of Christmas cheer this December by meeting the children of Colchester and giving out plenty of festive gifts. Booking in advance is required. Simply call Father Christmas’s helpers at Colchester Castle on 01206 282939 Polar Express (Norfolk) Do you believe? We do at the Mid-Norfolk Railway and that is why we are proud to be hosting an exciting magical experience like no other. After the success and fun of November & December 2017 – 2019 & 2021-2022, The Polar Express™ Train Ride is returning to the Mid-Norfolk Railway again in 2023 with the magic of the 2004 motion picture The Polar Express™ being theatrically re-created so you and your family can be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale. Prepare to be surrounded by the magic and wonder of the Christmas season! Weekend dates are very popular and most sold out – so be quick. BOOK HERE Christmas Special at Audley End Miniature Railway With a Nutcrackers help, this winter you will board the Polar Express and journey deep into the Enchanted woods of Audley End to visit Santa’s winter workshop! Together, with her very helpful elves, Mother Christmas is ensuring all the toys are ready for Christmas eve while Santa comes to visit you in your carriage with a gift for every child. No weekend tickets left. Mid -week visits are available and run after school. BOOK HERE Meet Santa at Colne Valley Railways You will meet Santa in his grotto before travelling on a diesel train to collect your present from Santa's workshop. Weekend tickets are available. BOOK HERE A Magical Christmas Experience at Marsh Farm A wondrous journey awaits you, but before you can embark on your enchanted adventure, you’ll need to be granted special access to the North Pole! Don’t worry, the expert Elves in Passport Control will make sure all your papers are in order and send you on your way. With an ice rink, teddy bear workshop, rides and much more, book early to avoid disappointment. BOOK HERE Christmas events that you need to book early to avoid missing out!
10 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] Funky Voices A multi award-winning modern community choir, founded in 2007, provides the experience of choir on a whole new level to singers and audience. From breath-taking arrangements of emotional rich harmonies to feel-good dance tracks, the energy, passion and personalities shining through create their unique wall of sound. The choir have recently performed with established artists at the O2, Royal Albert Hall and Edinburgh Fringe... you can get in on the action too. No experience needed or audition, just a love of music and a good sense of humour. Book your free taster session at www.funkyvoices.co.uk
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 11 ADVERTS
12 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] How To Build A Hedgehog Habitat: 4-Step Guide To Building A Hog-Haven Banish half-term boredom with the ultimate guide to creating a hedgehog-friendly habitat! With temperatures falling rapidly, our native hedgehogs need a safe, cosy spot to park their prickles. From October to November, they’re on the lookout for the perfect places to hunker down and wait out the winter, away from the chilly winds and hungry predators. So why not build them their perfect home. How to build the perfect hedgehog hibernation hideout Step one: Pick the perfect spot Selecting the ideal location for your hedgehog hibernation hideout is crucial. Here's how to do it: • Quiet and secluded: Find a quiet and secluded corner of your garden. Hedgehogs prefer a tranquil environment away from human disturbances and noise, or any curious pets. • Sheltered from the elements: Ensure the hideout is sheltered from strong winds and direct sunlight. You want to create a cosy, temperature-stable environment. • Accessibility: Make sure the entrance to the hideout is easily accessible for hedgehogs. Avoid placing it near steep slopes or obstacles that might hinder their entry or exit. Step two: Grab some supplies For those looking to put their woodwork skills to the test, creating a hedgehog hibernation den requires a few essential materials and some determination. Here's a shopping list to help you get started. DIY hedgehog hibernation den shopping list Step three: Build the hideout Now that you've chosen the location, it's time to construct the hideout: Start by creating a narrow entrance to the den. Cut your timber down into four 30cm sections, and nail them together. Use your saw to cut a small entrance hole (around 11cm x 15cm) at the base of the crate. Nail the tunnel to the entrance hole from the inside. Drill a hole in the back of the crate and run the hose/plastic tubing through it — this will provide ventilation for your hibernating hog, but make sure any rainwater can’t get in when positioning the tube. Top tips: • Interior: Fill the hideout with dry leaves, straw, or hay. This provides insulation and a cosy bedding for the hedgehog. • Positioning: Place the hideout in your chosen location. Ensure it's level and stable, so it doesn't collapse or shift during hibernation. • Sustenance: Place a little food and water by the entrance of the shelter, this will help to attract any nearby hogs looking for a place to snuggle down. Step four: maintain and monitor • Once the hideout is set up, your hobby continues: A wooden crate — a wine crate works well! Untreated timber (15cm x 2cm, 1.2m length) Nails (25mm) Hosepipe/plastic tubing (around 1m in length) Jigsaw Hammer Drill 25mm wood drill bit Image by RSPC 12 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected]
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 13 Section Title • Regular checks: Periodically inspect the outside of the hideout throughout the hibernation season. Look for signs of occupancy and ensure it remains dry and secure. Try to resist the urge to peek inside — disturbing a hibernating hog can be extremely distressing for them! • Fresh water: Keep a shallow dish of fresh water nearby, even during hibernation. Hedgehogs may wake up occasionally to drink. • Food: Continue to provide suitable food, especially before hibernation begins and after they emerge in the spring. Bonus tips for Bonfire Night Planning ahead for Bonfire Night? While it’s an event that’s undeniably fun for us humans, the same can’t be said for our local wildlife. From a conservation perspective, the case against bonfires and fireworks is quite strong, but if you’re intent on celebrating, take heed of the tips below: Check for hedgehogs before lighting: Before lighting your bonfire, carefully check the entire pile, especially if it has been sitting for a while. Use a broom or rake to gently lift and move the wood to see if any hedgehogs are hiding within. Create a barrier: Use chicken wire or similar material to create a barrier around the bonfire. Place it a few inches off the ground to allow hedgehogs to crawl underneath but prevent them from getting inside. Secure the wire to the ground to keep it in place. Light the fire safely: When you're ready to light the bonfire, do so from one side only. This gives any hedgehogs that may still be hiding a chance to escape from the opposite side. Support hedgehog rescue organisations: If you come across a hedgehog in distress, contact a local wildlife rescue organisation for help and advice. Have a hog-friendly bonfire night instead! Loud explosions and raging fires aren’t the only way to celebrate this event. In fact, there are plenty of ways you can acknowledge the date without causing a disturbance to the native wildlife! Celebrate with sparklers instead of fireworks: Everyone loves sparklers, and better yet, they’re relatively wildlife-friendly, provided they’re disposed of safely! Celebrate with marshmallows: It’s tough to beat a well-toasted marshmallow — especially if it’s accompanied by a few biscuits and a hot chocolate. Instead of filling the sky with explosions, fill your tummy with delicious treats and entertain the kids with the timeless tale of how Bonfire Night came to be. Build your own Guy Fawkes: Make use of any cardboard packaging you’ve got lying around by cobbling together your very own Guy Fawkes, but instead of tossing him into the fire, simply remove any nonrecyclable parts and dump him in the bin! Article by RSBB - visit their online shop for products and help raise funds for wildlife Image by The State of Britain’s Hedgehogs 2022, British Hedgehog Preservation Society and People’s Trust for Endangered Species. Image by RSPC DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 13
Section Title 14 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] Pumpkin Fun At Foxes Farm Foxes Farm Produce is one of the largest UK pumpkin farms and is proudly the original Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch in Essex. With Pick Your Own Pumpkins, refreshments, Giant Corn Maze (Colchester only), and bucket loads of outdoor activities to enjoy in the Field of Fun including farm obstacles, slide, football goals, pedal tractors and more a great day out is guaranteed! This year at Colchester there is also Pumpkin Patch Nights! Get the full Halloween experience, picking pumpkins and navigating the corn maze as darkness descends. With plenty of things to make you jump and squeal, it’s a fun night out for kids and couples alike. And when you’re done, why not hit the FoxBox Café to dance away those demons in the moonlight, quench the anxious thirst with their licensed bar and refuel those shaky legs with a hot dog or ice cream! There are two locations in Essex- Basildon, Watch House Farm, Wash Road, SS15 4ER and Colchester, Green Lane, Aldham, CO6 3PR. There is an online booking system and everyone visiting the Pumpkin Patch (excluding babies under 1 years old) will require a ticket. To book your ticket visit www.foxesfarmproduce.co.uk Spooky Special We have some great events for you to enjoy this Halloween. Get your witches and wizards ready to have the best time!
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • Spooky Special Issue 2023• 15 Halloween Festival at Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park on 21-29 October Look out - there's creepy characters about! Be careful you don’t bump into the walkabout Witch, Wizard, Vampire and Day of the Dead Skeleton at Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park’s Halloween Festival this October half term. Little monsters are encouraged to come along in fancy dress. If you’re feeling brave enough visit the Trick or Treat houses for a spooky scare, boogie along to the Witches Wiggle DIsco and catch a ghoulishly good show in the Barn Theatre with performances from children’s entertainers Skittleman, Tidimix and Bams - as seen on Britain's Got Talent! and even entertainment from the Skeleton and Witch - watch out, she’s WICKED! Extra eerie fun includes a Halloween Trail, meet and greets with Frankie the Frankenstein and a Giant Skeleton, and of course - all tickets include entry to the award-winning adjoining Pumpkin Village, filled with autumnal photo ops and an array of pumpkins, gourds and squash as far as the eye can see. Enjoy unlimited funfair rides, hours of indoor and outdoor play, mini golf, bouncy pillows plus the usual farm animal encounter and a FREE pumpkin for every child to take home. Tickets are available to book on the door, or discounted online here Halloween Festival at Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park on 21-29 October Fearsome families will LOVE a visit to Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park’s Halloween Festival this October half term - come in fancy dress and slither around our devilishly decorated farm. Are you brave enough to enter the Haunted Halloween Walkthrough? Catch a ghoulishly good show in the theatre with performances from Skittleman, as well as Moji magic shows, Halloween Discos with Monty the Meerkat and even entertainment from the Skeleton and Witch - watch out, she’s WICKED! Extra eerie fun includes a Slime Making craft activity, Halloween Trail, Glitter Station and of course - a visit to the Pumpkin Patch, with photo ops plus little ones can pick their own pumpkin to take home. Enjoy unlimited funfair rides, outdoor play including our latest Meerkat Sands Adventure Golf and Giant Play Towers, plus the usual animal encounters including the Wallaby Walkabout. Tickets are available to book on the door, or discounted online here. COMPETITION ENTER HERE There's so much spooky fun to be had at Marsh Farm and Lee Valley Animal Adventure this year. What's more, we have 4 x tickets to Marsh Farm's Halloween Festival, 4 x tickets to Marsh Farm's Pumpkin Village & 4 x tickets to Lee Valley Farm's Halloween Festival to giveaway!! Enter by clicking below and make this Halloween the best yet.
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DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 17 SPOOKY SPECIAL FEATURE Pumpkins and more... Hatter’s Farm is a family-run pumpkin patch producing thousands of pumpkins and squash each year! Having farmed near the village of Takeley for almost 100 years, Ross and his family decided to open their farm to the public for the first time in 2020. With over 50 varieties to choose from, visitors are able to pick up a wheelbarrow and venture out into the fields to find their perfect pumpkin! To top off the perfect family day out, you can also fire the UK’s first Pumpkin Cannon, explore the massive Maize Maze and get the perfect pumpkin pic’ at one of the many photo opportunities! Hatter’s Farm has exciting plans for the patch to be even bigger and better than ever this year, with more pumpkins, the return of their spooky Pumpkin Nights sessions, the introduction of the new Hatter’s Mad House, live street actors, and more incredible food to choose from! Don’t just take their word for it! See what one of their customers had to say: “Huge selection of pumpkins and squash available and very reasonably priced. The children loved the Pumpkin Cannons and Maize Maze. We look forward to visiting again next year!” – Emily Heath, Google Review So, what are you waiting for! Visit www. hattersfarmpumpkins.co.uk to book your tickets for daytime and evening sessions before they sell out. **DISCOUNT** Use the discount code HAT2 to get 10% off, but hurry, this offer only applies to the first 200 tickets sold. www.hattersfarmpumpkins.co.uk
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Section Title 20 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] Theatricool Holiday workshops Did you know Theatricool offer holiday activities and workshops? As well as our popular summer schools we offer exciting things to do in the school holidays:) This October join us for our Spooky Halloween day where you can dress up and take part in lots of ghostly adventures. We have Halloween themed crafts, games and drama activities for ages 4-7 on Monday 23rd October from 10-3pm giving your children a chance to have fun in a creative and safe environment with experienced dbs checked staff:) £25.00 per child We are now taking names for a January start, please apply via our website www.theatricool.co.uk and request a free taster session:) If you would like to see us in action why not come and see our Winter Showcase at Colchester Arts Centre on 3/12/23? We would love to meet you:). To book please contact [email protected]
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 21 Brightworth's School of Magic is back! Do you have a budding young Witch or Wizard? Brightworths School of Magic is opening its doors at Hedingham Castle this Halloween Half Term to welcome the Class of 2023! Meet the wonderful Brightworths teachers and take part in their specialist subjects; from Magic Wands to Potions and Enchanted Animals to Mystical Spells. A truly captivating experience for fledgling witches and wizards of ages 3-14 years. Running from 22nd - 26th October: Morning and afternoon sessions available each day. £21.95 for a child ticket, £13.95 for an adult supervisor ticket. To book your child a place, visit hedinghamcastle.co.uk Get Ready for a Spooktacular Halloween at Colchester Castle From spooky trails to sleepovers, there’s something for everyone this October. Join in the fun and create unforgettable memories. Embark on a spooky trail but stay brave, as you never know what you might discover! For the truly fearless, a sleepover at the castle is an opportunity to uncover the mysteries lurking within its walls or enjoy a fun Halloween evening. Children in costume get free entry when accompanied by a paying adult (23-27 October) so don't miss out on the chance to showcase your little ones' scary creativity! Family tours let you explore the castle's haunting secrets with knowledgeable guides, be captivated by rich history and hidden mysteries. But that's not all! Head over to the Natural History Museum for animal antics and a mobile zoo. Discover fascinating creatures and enjoy some extra Halloween fun. www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events Call 01206 282939 to book. SPOOKY SPECIAL FEATURE
22 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] Sat 21 Knightzzz at the Museum If you’ve ever wondered what Colchester Castle is like at night, then this is your chance to find out. Join the team for a sleepover experience like no other. Meet historical characters, enjoy a tour of the Castle, take part in some fun activities and feast on late night hot chocolate, before a light breakfast when you wake up. Colchester Castle. From £35 per person FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23 - Sun 29 Out of this World Navigate your way through the High Street to identify giant inflatables replicating the eight planets within our Solar System, displayed within some of our incredible businesses. Complete the trail to learn the order of the planets and discover some other hidden surprises along the way. Chelmsford City Centre Wed 25, Thu 26 & 30 Wicked Spirits Dark Tour Enjoy a tour of the Castle with a darker side. Inspired by last summer’s blockbuster Wicked Spirits exhibition this tour is packed full of facts, perfect for Halloween. £10 per person Colchester Castle FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23 - Sun 29 Petting Farm Open Week Go and say hello to some furry friends. Food is included in the entry price for all of our animals! £9.50/£7.50/Free. Book on the day and online. Stantons Farms, Black Notley. CM77 8NH. FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23 – Fri 27 Gallery Game Time During your visit to Colchester Castle, you’ll discover fun games dotted around the museum. Take a break, have a game or two and then continue your journey through time with the Castle’s treasures and displays! Colchester Castle FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23 Curious Creatures Mobile Zoo Live animal meet and greet! Head down to the Natural History Museum and meet the fluffy to the scaly! Discover, learn and get interactive with some curious live animals with our special mobile zoo visitors! £6.50 per person. Natural History Museum FIND OUT MORE HERE Wed 25- Fri 27 Family Tours Travel back over 2000 years on a trip into the hidden spaces of Colchester Castle. Climb the great stairs and enjoy spectacular views from the roof whilst soaking up tales of victory, defeat and the hardfought battles that have made Colchester the city it is today. £3.50 per person after Castle admission. Colchester Castle. FIND OUT MORE HERE Fill your diary with things to do Listings where correct at time of publishing. Please do click on links and check with the event organiser before leaving to ensure it is still correct. Some evenst also require advance booking. Enjoy your day out and don't forget to mention us when booking/enquiring! October
www.kidaround.biz • Summer Holidays Issue 2023• 23 DIARY DATES Weds 25 Pokémon Card Trading Looking for the one card you don’t have - go along and trade your Pokémon cards. Suitable for 5+. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. 9:30am – 10:30am 17 School Road, Colchester, CO6 1BU. FIND OUT MORE HERE Wed 25 Family Forest Fun An afternoon of fun in the woods for the whole family. About this Event Build a den, climb a tree, hunt for minibeasts, create in the mud kitchen, woodland crafts, campfire and much more. Essex Wildlife Trust, Langdon Nature Discovery Centre FIND OUT MORE HERE Wed 25 Animal Antics Get ready for some animal themed fun and games. We’ve got stories, songs and games lined up ready to entertain our younger guests this half term! Free. Natural History Museum FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 27 The Mega Party Joanna from CBeebies join all the fun with CBEEBIES Presenter Joanna in this amazing children’s party with music, dancing, story telling, fun and games. Plus all the children will have a snack during the session plus a gift at the end. Seesion 10am & 2pm. Thundersley Congregational Church, SS7 3AL FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 27 Folk Music Night with Jo Beth Young & Serious Child The Shadow Navigation Show: an ethereal night of songs,stories and vision, navigating the shadows of human experience together, set in the magical atmosphere of the Tapestry Room on the Castle’s ground floor.6.30pm. £15 Hedingham Castle FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 29 A Dragon’s Tale Puppet Show and Workshop Enjoy this magical story based on the legend of the Lambton Worm through puppets, changing scenery, music and sound effects. Then meet the puppets and create your very own Dragon Puppet at our crafty workshop! 11.30am or 2pm. From £9 Hedingham Castle FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 3 – Sun 5 The Gruffalo’s Child The Gruffalo said that no gruffalo should Ever set foot in the deep dark wood… But one wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? 3+. Palace Theatre SS0 9LA. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Lifeboat Station Open Day See the lifeboats, meet and dunk the crew! Exercises / Demos Kids Games, Treasure Hunt & Souvenirs, Tea, Coffee, Cake & Sweet Stand, Local Stallholders, including various local artwork & Kids Toys and Games. Family picnic area and sheltered seating available. Free entry. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 5 Guy Fawkes Children Event Join them in the woods for a morning of fun making guys by the bonfire. Bring any old or spare clothes to dress your guy. Outdoor session. 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm. £5.50. High Woods Country Park. Meet outside the visitor centre. FIND OUT MORE HERE November
24 Summer Holidays Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] 14, 20,21,22, 26,27,28 October Pumpkin Patch Nights in Colchester Description- Picking pumpkins and navigate the corn maze as darkness descends, it’s a fun night out for kids and couples alike. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 14 - Sun 29 Pick Your Own Pumpkins at The Pumpkin Patch With Pick Your Own Pumpkins, refreshments, Giant Corn Maze (Colchester only), and the Field of Fun including farm obstacles, slide, football goals, pedal tractors and more a great day out is guaranteed! FIND OU TMORE HERE Tue 17 & Wed 18 Sat 21 - Sun 29 Pick Your Own Pumpkin The best pumpkin picking experience around! Thousands of pumpkins, Maize Maze, Pumpkin Cannons, Hatter’s Mad House and much more! Hatter's Farm FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 21- Sun 29 Creepy Castle Trail Get your creep on with our fun Halloween trail around Europe’s largest Norman Keep. Pick up a trail sheet and head out into the museum! £5 after Castle admission. Colchester Castle FIND OUT MORE Sat 21 – Sun 29 Haunted Half Term A spooktacular event with a haunted barn, spooky trail, slime factory, a pumpkin barn and more. £7.00/£10.00/£6.00/Under 2’s Free. Includes all activities and a free pumpkin for all paying children! 10am – 3pm. Hopefield Animal Sanctuary. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 21 - Mon 23 & Thu 26 - Sun 29 Late Night Pick Your Own Visit in the best pumpkin picking experience around but in the dark! Thousands of pumpkins, Maize Maze, Pumpkin Cannons, Hatter’s Mad House and much more! FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 21 – Sun 29 Halloween Festival check out our amazing decorations, Haunted House, meet and greet our Dragons (check website for dates), enjoy special craft activities, animal encounters including creepy crawly meerkat feeding, pumpkin carving plus so much more! 10am-6pm. Old MacDonald’s Farm FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 21 – Sun 29 Halloween Quest Grab your broomsticks and get ready for a bewitchingly brilliant day out. Gather round for tales from our spooky storytellers and solve creepy clues. 10am-4pm. Audley End House and Gardens. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 22 – Thu 26 Brightworths School of Magic Do you have a budding young Witch or Wizard? Enter our Magical Castle, meet the Brightworth teachers to learn and take part in their specialist subjects in this immersive and captivating event! Sessions £21.95 for a child ticket, £13.95 for an adult supervisor ticket. Hedingham Castle. FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23 - Sun 29 Halloween Family Self Guided Trail Follow the different maps around the park and try to solve our Halloween themed puzzles. If you are in fancy dress you will get a sweet treat at the end. 11am-3pm £1. High Woods Country, Colchester. FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23-Fri 27 Crazy Costume Wow Castle staff with your best Halloween outfits and receive free entry to Colchester Castle this half term! Free entry when accompanied by a full paying adult. Free Entry Colchester Castle FIND OUT MORE HERE Spooktacular Events
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING www.kidaround.biz • October Issue 2023• 25 Mon 23 Halloween Mega Fun A day of ultimate fun for the entire family.Go join the spooktacular event where they take over the International Hall, with our huge indoor inflatable arena, to bring you an indoor family fun day over two days for children aged 4 to 11 years old. 10:30-3:30pm. 3:30-4:30 SEN Event. The Brentwood Centre. FIND OUT MORE HERE Mon 23 Nicky Trix Halloween Howls Nicky Trix returns for his fourth appearance at Brentwood Theatre with his brand new “Halloween Howls” show. A fangtastic Halloween magic and ventriloquism show, which will be fun for the whole family! 11am. Brentwood Theatre FIND OUT MORE HERE Tue 24 – Sun 29 Spooky Fest Entertain the Kids in our newly revamped Halloween Marquee and be met by spooks, ghouls, dancing clowns and creepy crawlies. Don’t forget to dress up in your Halloween Costumes and join the fun. £15.00 per child and adults £4.00. 11am – 4pm FIND OUT MORE HERE Tue 24 Children’s Halloween Party A party your little monster won’t want to miss! Come to Creeksea Manor for a fun themed brunch and meet Maleficent and Cruella DeVille. Take part in our Fancy Dress competition, have your face painted, amaze us with your talent for arts and crafts and play games. Prizes and sweet treats galore, in association with Twinkle and Moon events. Creeksea Place Manor House. FIND OUT MORE HERE Wed 25 Spooky Spells & Pongy Potions Join us on a walk through the woods searching for spooky spell and pongy potion ingredients and the perfect wand! Look out for weird and wonderful wildlife, then make your wand and cast your spell. 5+. £7. FIND OUT MORE HERE Wed 25 Belfairs Halloween Wood Spooky crafts, trails, mischief and stories. A family session at Twilight exploring the Bewitching Belfairs Woods, fancy dress encouraged! Suitable for ages up to 11 years old. 4pm – 6pm Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre. FIND OUT MORE HERE Thu 26 Halloween Kid’s Fancy Dress Disco With entertainment by DJ Dave & Sally Squiggle, games and fancy dress - this is an event not to be missed! Choose from our early session: 11am until 1.30pm or our later session which is 2.30pm until 5pm.£8 Sir James Hawkey Hall, Woodford Green FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 27 – Sun 29 Spooky Woodland Walks join our ghost-hunting storytellers on a family-friendly walk through the shadows of Audley End’s grounds and gardens. With well-told tales full of strange and spooky goingson, this Halloween walk is sure to get you into the spirit of the season. 5-12 year olds 5.30pm, 6.30pm, 7.30pm. Audley End House and Gardens. FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 27 Pumpkin Painting Workshop! Join in for a spooky half term workshop where you’ll get to decorate a pumpkin with your creative touch! 10am – 10:45am. 5+. £10. Patch Kids Club, Springfield Road Chelmsford CM2 6QR. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 28 Children’s Halloween Craft Fair Join them for their children’s Halloween Craft Fair raising money for The Lexi Doll Charity. The afternoon will be packed with spooky games with a witches trick or treat cauldron & children’s crafts. Boreham Village Hall, 12pm – 3pm FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 28 Halloween Kids Party Kids party with games, dancing and food. Hosted by DJ Lyrix Costumes recommended 3pm – 5pm. £5 per child The Plough Inn Great Bentley. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 28 Halloween Family Night Join in with some Halloween fun this year. 7pm – 10pm. £5 (includes a hotdog). Greenstead Social Club, Colchester . FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 28 Halloween Party! Get in the Halloween spirit with spooky stories, creepy crafts, ghoulish games and a fun Halloween trail! Children can collect a treat (goody bag) at the end as well as enjoy a mocktail! This event is suitable for ages 4+. £8 per child, £5 per adult. 6pm – 8pm (doors open at 5:30) Colchester Castle. FIND OUT MORE HERE
Section Title 26 October Issue 2023 • www.kidaround.biz TO ADVERTISE, CALL 07557 053044 OR EMAIL [email protected] Wed 1 Lake View Firework Display Activities, food & refreshments as well as fire and music. A great night for all. Discounts available for Scout/Guide groups. Thriftwood Scout Campsite, Brentwood. FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 3 – Sun 5 Drive-In Toddler Firework Display Throughout the evening you will be able to watch the entertainment from within your car, or in your allocated standing area to the right of your vehicle. You can ‘tune in’ to our very own radio station to hear the show played through your car! £40-£50 per car. 4:30pm. FIND OUT MORE HERE Fri 3 Fireworks Night A Family Fireworks display for all the local community to come and enjoy. The licensed bars will be open throughout the evening with a DJ playing music to entertain you. 5:30pm. £9/£7/£26. Rivenhall Oaks, Witham, CM8 2PS FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Firework Display Enjoy a family night at the airfield to watch some spectacular fireworks. 6pm. North Weald Airfield. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Billericay Fireworks Attracting people from across Essex and beyond, it is an event for all the family with live entertainment, bonfire, delicious food, coffee outlets and drinks. Gates open at 5pm. Lake Meadows Park, Billericay, CM12 0BW. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Firework Display With a visually spectacular show which is choreographed to a brilliant sound track mixed by 3D Events Productions. There will have a feast of fabulous food stalls and a family fun fair! An explosively good evening for all the family! 5:30pm Saffron Walden Common, CB10 1FH FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Belchamps Firework Display They will have plenty of side stall and refreshments available. With 2 shows one for younger audience at 6pm which contains all the whizz and pops a child could want. The main display at 7.30pm sharp is full of all the huge bangs and pops. Belchamps Scout Centre, SS5 4JD FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat4 Fireworks Enjoy an explosive night of fun with fireworks to music, massive bonfire, BBQ and licenced bar. Gates open at 6:15pm, bonfire lights at 6:45pm and our fireworks display begins at 7:15pm. The Recreation Ground, Great Dunmow, CM6 2AA FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Fireworks & Bonfire A night of fabulous food, live music, fantastic fireworks and lighting the big Bonfire! Live Music from the fantastic Amy Baker & Band! Outside Bar, Children’s Rides, Hog Roast, BBQ, Vegan Food, Pizza, Cookies, and more. 4:30pm The Bell Inn, Maldon. £6.50/£4/Free. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sat 4 Chelmsford Fireworks There is a family fun fair and a huge variety of food and drink stands. This is always a sell out event so make sure you book now! They’re determined to make this year the biggest and best Fireworks display we’ve ever put on! 5pm. Admirals Park, Chelmsford. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 5 Firework Spectacular The fireworks spectacular display welcomes visitors from near and far. Join in this Bonfire Night for a fun-filled evening of dazzling fireworks, fantastic amusements, and delicious food and drink for all the family to enjoy. From £15. Chelmsford City Racecourse. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 5 Castle Park Fireworks Alongside the impressive fireworks display there will be entertainment, and parading of the guy. A perfect family evening out! This will be King Coel’s Kittens 52nd Fireworks Spectacular. Gates open 5:30pm. Colchester. FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 5 Raven Park Fireworks A fantastic family event, enjoy street food, sweet treats, BBQ, live music, 2 well-stocked bars and fairground fun. 4pm. £27/ £12/ £5/ free. Northern Gateway Sports Park, Colchester, CO4 5XB FIND OUT MORE HERE Sun 5 Rugby Club Fireworks Make sure to get the date in your diaries as we offer a spectacular display and fun for the family! DJ, BBQ, funfair, bar and more. 6:30pm. Braintree Rugby Club, Beckers Green Road. FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN ESSEX
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