UP, UP AND AWAY: LEICESTER'S FIRST-EVER BALLOON FESTIVAL KICKS OFF A SUMMER PACKED WITH FAMILY EVENTS

This weekend, Leicester’s skies will be transformed as the city hosts its first-ever Balloon Festival, one of a series of major family-friendly events expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to Leicester and Leicestershire.

From spectacular hot air balloon displays and Star Wars adventures to giant mazes, colourful cultural celebrations and extraordinary community art installations, the county is offering families a packed programme of unique experiences throughout the school holidays, reinforcing its growing reputation as one of the Midlands’ top destinations for family days out.

Leicester Balloon Festival: 19-21 June

This June the very first Leicester Balloon Festival comes to Victoria Park in the heart of the city. There will be around 30 tethered hot air balloons and an evening ‘glow’ show which will fill the night sky with colour and light.

Alongside this the daytime activities will include some incredible entertainment including the Stannage International stunt show; Civil War re-enactment & living history camps; a foam party; circus workshops; Magical Musical Flying Bubble Bike; a Dinosaur invasion; the Jump Dogs Parachute Team (Sunday); a fun fair; face painting, plus street food and licensed bars to keep you fuelled.

Tickets are just £8 for adults and £6 for kids, get yours here.

Galactic Gathering – Festival of the Force: 4 & 5 July

If the Mandalorian and Grogu have you itching for more Star Wars, then come along to the National Space Centre’s Galactic Gathering - Festival of the Force!

This weekend of intergalactic family fun is perfect for those budding Jedis and Lucasfilm lovers in your family, no matter their age! 

Meet iconic Star Wars characters in person, step into the universe with real props and sets, try light saber training, drive a droid, and take part in hands-on STEAM workshops.

There’s also quirky merch from brilliant UK traders, and a packed programme of family-friendly activities. Get your tickets before they sell out!

Cosby Yarn Bomb: 8-29 July

It’s going to be one of the highlights of the summer! After a year off in 2025, the Cosby Yarn Bomb (pictured) is back! This fantastic FREE event is an uplifting outdoor trail of 80 textile art installations created by the local community.

This year’s theme is ‘Around The World In 80 Displays’ and you can expect to see everything from life-sized crochet giraffes & Chinese dragons to colourful, interactive imaginary worlds. A joyful and inspiring event for all ages full of creativity, community spirit and incredible skill! The artworks will be on display, outside, across the village of Cosby for everyone to enjoy.

Wistow Maze: 20 July-13 September

Returning for the summer is Leicestershire’s biggest Maze, found in a field just a few miles south of the city. With three miles of paths across eight acres, this is the perfect way to get lost in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside. This year’s design is still to be confirmed, but this is a perfect day out in the sunshine and there will be quizzes, trails and loads of fun activities once you’ve found your way out of the Maize and Sunflower pathways.

Pay on the door, prices are £8.95 for kids (13 & under), £10.95 for adults, or £37 for a family of four.

Leicester Mela: 15 & 16 August

Over two days in August, Leicester’s Abbey Park comes alive with a celebration of Indian culture, arts, music, food and fashion! Dance away with the bhangra rhythms from the main stage, try incredible food from the huge variety of stalls, enjoy puppet shows and circus acts with the kids, and step into the Leicester Mela Bazaar for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Open to absolutely everyone, keep an eye on their website for the latest information.