If you’re looking for an affordable family getaway filled with entertainment, countryside views and plenty of community spirit, Dalston Village Festival Week is the perfect time to visit.
Taking place from Saturday 1st to Sunday 9th August 2026, the festival brings the village to life with a packed programme of activities. Many events are completely free or very affordable, making this one of the best—and best-value—weeks of the summer for a camping break in Dalston.
A Week of Free and Affordable Family Fun
Dalston Village Festival Week offers something for every age, with plenty of activities that won’t stretch the holiday budget.
The celebrations begin on Saturday 1st August with the Festival Duck Race, flower and craft club teas, a gospel concert and the lively Carnival on the Kingsway. With music, children’s entertainment, a bouncy castle, food stalls, a magic circle and a festival bar, it’s a brilliant way to begin your stay.
On Sunday, you can browse the Art Group Exhibition, enjoy festival teas, watch the Gala Day races and entertainment or cheer on the Village Cricket Match.
There’s even more to enjoy throughout the week. Families can choose from activities including karate, Action Ants, tennis, football skills, bowling, a circus workshop, children’s detective trails and a kids’ disco. There are also art exhibitions, preschool activities and plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee, traybakes or afternoon tea.
On Friday evening, Festival Friday in the Square promises live music, dancing, a barbecue and stalls from 6pm until late. The celebrations then culminate with Dalston Show on Saturday 8th August, followed by the Festival Thanksgiving Service on Sunday morning.
Some special events, including the quiz night, An Evening of Abba and the Backworth Colliery Band, are ticketed. However, with so many free and low-cost activities taking place throughout the village, you can fill your days with family fun without spending a fortune.
Festival Fun by Day, Campsite Calm by Night
After enjoying the festivities in the village, head back to the campsite and slow down.
Settle into your camping chair, take in the beautiful view and enjoy the peaceful countryside around you. Say hello to Douglas the pony, watch the lambs race around the fields and let the children enjoy the simple freedom of being outdoors.
If you can’t be bothered to cook after a busy day, simply pop over to Café Cardewlees for a freshly made pizza and an ice-cold beer—the perfect easy holiday treat.
As evening arrives, gather around the campfire and toast marshmallows beneath the open sky. It’s the perfect contrast to a busy festival day and one of those simple holiday moments families remember long after returning home.
Make a Holiday of It
Camping during Dalston Festival Week gives you the best of both worlds: a friendly village packed with affordable entertainment and a peaceful countryside base where you can relax between activities.
With so much happening for free, there’s no need for expensive attractions or a complicated itinerary. Simply choose the events that take your fancy, wander into the village and return to the campsite whenever you’re ready for some quiet time.
Whether you’re watching the village cricket, joining a family activity, enjoying live music or relaxing around the campfire with a toasted marshmallow, Dalston Festival Week offers all the ingredients for a memorable summer break.
Festival activities are subject to change. Please check the latest timetable before attending.
