Family Festival this Half-Term, 22-24 October, Alleyn's School

[JenniWordUp]

If you're stuck for something to do this half-term why not head down to Word Up! Festival? It's a brand new family books and arts festivals taking place at Alleyn's School in Dulwich.

Word Up! will be a fantastic celebration of children's literature, with famous names and events for all ages this autumn half term. Writers taking part include Michael Morpurgo, Jacqueline Wilson, Francesca Simon (Horrid Henry), Andy Stanton (Mr Gum), Chris Riddell and Paul Stewart (Ottoline), poet and comic John Hegley, teen writer Meg Rosoff (How I Live Now), Judith Kerr (Tiger who came to Tea), actor Mackenzie Crook (who has just written and illustrated a novel for kids) and Caroline Lawrence (Roman Mysteries). There will be a mini bookshop run by Herne Hill's Tales on Moon Lane, comedy from James Campbell and his Comedy 4 Kids, family workshops with the chance to make music with London Philharmonic Orchestra and British carnival group Kinetika Bloco.

Entry to the festival site will be free and there will be the chance for all to enjoy free storytelling sessions, poetry events, free face painting from Arti & Crafti and music performances.

Also catch free pop up events on the talent stage, free mini manicures and shoulder massages in the pamper area, the chance to commission and leave the festival with a free artwork from illustrators in ?The Machine of Visual Delights?, free book making with Okido magazine team and free felt sewing sessions with designer Ros Badger. Alongside stalls selling vintage French children?s clothes, plus knitwear, crafts and Sparkle and Spin?s ?Snap? photo booth for a unique portrait. Try not to miss spotting Where?s Wally too?.look out for that stripy top!

And no great festival day out is complete without delicious food. Expect Mexican treats from Toma Mexicano, a yummy BBQ from Jack?s (East Dulwich), great coffee from Bean and Gone and sandwiches, soups and cakes galore. Southwark NCT will be providing baby changing/feeding area and there will be a reading den to drop into and relax.

Tickets can be bought online here or by phone: 01803 867 373. Hurry though - events are selling out fast!

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