Get ready for an unforgettable day of adventure, laughter and discovery as the much‑loved Littledown Family Fun Day returns for its 11th year on Sunday 26 July 2026.
This action‑packed community event promises something for everyone, with an exciting programme of magical encounters, immersive experiences, live entertainment, sport and hands‑on activities. Since its launch, more than 100,000 visitors have enjoyed this much‑anticipated annual celebration.
Character experiences
Step into a world of fantasy where Dreygo the Dragon appears alongside Merlin, joined by an adorable baby dragon, bringing wonder to visitors of all ages. Around the park, stilt‑walking fairies, circus skills performers, and a magical mermaid in Littledown’s Paddling Pool create unforgettable moments.
Children can meet a fantastic range of characters, including K‑Pop‑inspired favourites, stars from popular TV and film shows, and beloved characters from Minky Moos and Little Gizmos. Look out for more than 50 costumed characters roaming the park, plus incredible full‑size Transformers, including Megatron and Bumblebee, perfect for must‑have photo opportunities.
Dinosaurs, science and discovery
Prehistoric adventures await with Tank the Triceratops and Richie the Raptor, accompanied by their expert ranger and even baby dinosaurs. Young explorers can get hands‑on in the fossil digging zone and enjoy interactive science experiments, alongside mind‑blowing live science demonstrations and magical shows throughout the day.
Free VR (virtual reality) experiences
Step into incredible new worlds with free VR sessions, including:
Entertainment and attractions
The park will come alive with entertainment, including:
Get active
Littledown’s play park and paddling pool will be open (weather-dependent) to visitors on the day and throughout the summer season.
Football tournaments, organised by PlayFootball, will be taking place on Littledown’s 3G rubber crumb outdoor football pitches. Visitors interested in getting involved can register their interest online at playfootball.net.
Food and drink
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of food, drink and refreshment options from pop‑up vendors across the park, as well as at Lookout at Littledown, where live music on the outdoor terrace creates a brilliant festival atmosphere.
Thank you to our sponsors
This fantastic free community event is made possible thanks to the valued support of:
Absolute Music, Greatest Hits Radio, Compass Building Services Ltd, Snows Toyota, Raring2GO and Shadow Design.
Lookout at Littledown, the centre’s eating and drinking hotspot, will be open, selling cocktails, beers, soft drinks, and food. There will be live band performances on its outdoor terrace overlooking the park. Other pop-up stalls and vendors will be in the park selling refreshments and food throughout the day.
Littledown Centre and Littledown Park are operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
On behalf of BH Live, Shelley Lincoln, General Manager of Littledown Leisure Centre, said;
“We’re delighted to welcome back Littledown Family Fun Day for its 11th year, bringing another packed programme of entertainment, activities and experiences for local families.
“From dragons and dinosaurs to live music, sport and virtual reality, there really is something for everyone to enjoy. We’re proud to keep this a free event, and we’re grateful to our sponsors and partners for helping us make it possible. We look forward to welcoming the community for what promises to be another fantastic day.”
On behalf of BCP Council, Cllr Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial operations at BCP Council, said:
"I’m delighted to support the return of Littledown Family Fun Day – a fantastic free event that brings our community together and showcases the very best of what Bournemouth has to offer. With such a wide range of activities, entertainment and experiences, it’s a brilliant opportunity for everyone to enjoy our parks and spend quality time with family and friends. I look forward to what promises to be another memorable day.”
Visitors are advised to walk, cycle or take public transport to the event where possible. Limited car parking, including space for blue badge holders, is available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is free for up to three hours. Parking charges apply after – see car park signage for details.
Littledown Park is a dog free area. With the exception of service and assistance animals, people are asked to please leave their pets at home.
More information about updates about Littledown Family Fun Day, visit Littledown’s Facebook event page.
Littledown Centre and its swim, gym, and group exercise facilities will be open and running as usual throughout the day – visitors are advised to plan their visit as accessing the centre and parking will be busier than usual.
More information on opening hours and timetables can be found at bhliveactive.org.uk/littledown.