BIG Summer returns to Welwyn Hatfield

From 28 July to 17 August, BIG Summer 2025 will bring exciting events and activities to locations across the borough - perfect for children, teens, and families. Whether you're into sports, music, getting creative, or trying something completely new, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Now in its tenth year and organised by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, BIG Summer continues to evolve. Previous years have seen over 8,000 children and young people take part, and this summer builds on that success with a packed programme of inclusive, engaging and memorable events designed to leave a lasting impression.

Some of the free activities on offer this year include:

• Samba drumming – suitable for ages 7+
• Skateboarding – sessions are for beginners and for those wishing to learn new tricks.
• SEND football – available to those aged 5+ and catered to all abilities.

You can view the full programme of activities on the council’s BIG Summer event calendar. Some activities, such as the Graffiti Art and those listed above, have limited spaces so require advance booking, which is allocated on a first come first served basis. To see which events require booking, visit the council’s Eventbrite page. 

In addition to the bookable activities, the council is hosting free activity days every Wednesday throughout BIG Summer, offering a range of family-friendly entertainment at various locations across the borough:
 

Wednesday 30 July, 11am – 3pm, White Lion Square, Hatfield:

• Face painting
• Teddy bear Hunt
• Graffiti Art (now fully booked, waiting list available)
• Library Art Activity
• First Aid
• Arts and Crafts

Wednesday 6 August, 11am – 3pm, King George V, WGC:

• Pump Track
• Climbing Wall
• Face Painting
• First Aid
• Xplorer

Wednesday 13 August, 11am – 3pm, WGC Town Centre:

• Face Painting
• Graffiti Art (now fully booked, waiting list available)
• Arts and Crafts
• First Aid

Councillor Jane Quinton, WHBC Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Leisure and Community, said:

Promoting health and wellbeing through local leisure and cultural activities, especially for children is a priority for the council. I am delighted to see BIG Summer return with an even wider range of activities for children and young people – from science and graffiti art to football and paddleboarding to name just a few! It’s a great way for families to stay active and connected during the holidays, with plenty to keep even the most energetic children entertained. I’d encourage everyone to check the calendar and book early, as sessions are sure to fill up quickly.