Keep the kids entertained in Preston this May Half Term

With festivals, exclusive offers and great exhibitions at the city's flagship museum, The Harris, Preston is a great place to spend your half term holiday this May.

Not only does the city have a whole host of great events on, but parents looking to entertain the kids on a shoestring will have no problems finding things to do too thanks to great offers from some of the city's entertainment businesses, and free entry at some attractions.

Find out more info below and don't forget, these can be combined with a trip to the beautiful Avenham and Miller Parks so the kids can let off steam, or a trip over the new "old tram bridge" which was offically re-opened on Friday 22^nd May, to give you a great riverside walk to enjoy!

Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival

17 May – 6 June

Various Locations

Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival returns with live music, workshops and performances across more than 25 city locations. Featuring international artists alongside Lancashire talent, the festival will animate venues and public spaces throughout the city centre.

Half Term at The Harris

The Harris Museum offers wonderful exhibition spaces, bright and airy café with mouthwatering food, the chance to browse the public library and, what's more, the opportunity to spend a few hours without having to spend a single penny if you don't want to! Take a look at the brilliant offering at the museum half term; including an exhibition from a world-renown illustrator that the kids will love.

The World of Martin Brown: Horrible Histories and Other Dazzling Drawings

23 May – 31 August

A dazzling display of cartoons and art by best-selling children’s book illustrator Martin Brown.

Visitors journey through Brown’s artistic world, tracing his career from his early humorous cartoons to global publishing successes. Original art from Horrible Histories, illustrations from Lesser Spotted Animals, and exclusive content from his latest books, including Nell and the Cave Bear, bring Brown’s imagination vividly to life.

Horrid Harris Crafts

25 May

Create your own miniature Harris inspired by Horrible Histories and Preston’s collections in this family-friendly craft workshop.

Horrible Histories: The Movie Screening

26 May

Enjoy a free screening of Horrible Histories: Rotten Romans (PG) as part of The Harris half-term programme.

Sketch and Stroll

27 May

Join illustrator Phoebe Foxtrot for a guided drawing tour around The Harris.

Recycled Plastic Crafts

28 May

Get creative with Gallery Teo artist Nerissa Cargill Thompson and transform recycled plastic packaging into colourful artwork.

Cave Bear Craft

29 May

Build your own miniature cave and model bear inspired by the latest Martin Brown book in this hands-on family activity.

Great Offers to make your money go further  

It can be tough on the wallet to entertain a whole family during the school holidays. Thankfully Preston's businesses recognise that and have helped lighten the load with offers to help make your money go further.

Arc Cinema Half Term Programme

Throughout Half Term

Enjoy the latest family films, Kids Club screenings (only £3.50) and special opening night Star Wars character appearances from The Mandalorian & Grogu during the May half term holidays.

And if you are a Star Wars fan head down to Animate on Thursday 28th May and take part in some FREE Star Wars Young Jedi Training & Racing. Get the opportunity to learn exciting lightsaber techniques and take part in interactive Jedi challenges.

Hollywood Bowl Half Term Offers

Throughout Half Term

Take advantage of family bowling offers, meal deals such as two games and one drink package and 50% discounted early bird games throughout May half term at Hollywood Bowl.

Article provided to us by Preston City Council.