CARMARTHENSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has unveiled an array of free activities for children and families this summer, aiming to offer enjoyable, educational, and active experiences in a secure and supportive setting.

The Summer of Play sessions, taking place in local parks, promise a variety of activities. The first session is scheduled for 29 July at Cross Hands Park from 12:00pm to 2:00pm, followed by Pontyberem Park on 30 July from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Activities include messy play, arts and crafts, sensory play, and more.

On 29 July, the Ffwrnes Family Festival will be held at the Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli. This free event includes street theatre, arts and crafts, yoga, and a music workshop. Full details can be found on the Theatrau Sir Gâr website. For more information, contact Theatrau Sir Gâr at 0345 226 3510. No tickets are required.

The Council is organising two free bus trips, offering families the chance to visit new places. On 7 August, families can visit Wiggleys Farm Park in Bridgend, and on 22 August, there will be a trip to Tenby. Pick-up points across the Gwendraeth Valley make it easy for families to join. To book, email [email protected].

An event on 15 August from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Leekes Cross Hands Car Park will feature local professionals such as police officers, the Fire and Rescue Service, the Dental Service, and the Coastguard. This offers children a chance to learn about these roles while enjoying interactive activities.

The Food and Fun programme, running over 12 days during the school summer holidays, is available to schools in Carmarthenshire with 16% or greater Free School Meal eligibility. Eight participating schools have shared full details with eligible pupils. Four schools will visit Bremenda Isaf County Farm for vegetable growing and harvesting, with produce used in cooking lessons.

Free open-access play sessions, organised by People Speak Up, will be held during the summer holidays across Carmarthenshire. Street Play Sir Gâr provides a safe space for children to play in the street. Sessions are held during term time on Saturdays: 11:00am – 1:00pm at Park Hall Estate, Carmarthen, and 2:30pm – 4:30pm at Maes y Gors, Tyisha, Llanelli (near Home Bargains).

Three free National Playday events will be held in Carmarthenshire:

• 5 August: Carmarthen Park, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
• 7 August: Tyisha, Llanelli, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
• 9 August: Ammanford Park, 1:00pm – 4:00pm

For more information, visit Street Play Sir Gâr – People Speak Up.

The Active Young People Team supports various events and organisations, such as Food & Fun, Scarlets in the Community Fit, Fed & Fun, and community council events. Details about Scarlets Summer Camps can be found here.

Additionally, Carmarthenshire Actif leisure centres offer a variety of paid activities for children this summer. For further details, click here.

Cllr. Linda Davies Evans, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes, said: “We are delighted to offer these fantastic activities for children and families in Carmarthenshire. During these challenging times, it’s essential to provide free, engaging, and supportive experiences that not only entertain but also educate and enrich the lives of our young residents. Carmarthenshire County Council is committed to working with our partners to deliver these valuable opportunities.”

For more information about summer activities in Carmarthenshire, visit the Discover Carmarthenshire website.