Festival season is on the horizon, and having been deprived of live music for so long I strongly believe that 2022 is going to be epic! As an avid music lover with two children, researching how family friendly an event is has become as important as the line-up itself. We’re thrilled to be heading back to Black Deer Festival which takes place just outside Tunbridge Wells at the end of June. This will be our third year at Black Deer and have always taken the kids, who genuinely enjoy it as much (maybe even more!) as their parents. Taking place in the stunning surroundings of Eridge Park the event’s wide open setting offers itself as a natural playground whilst allowing families to enjoy live music away from the crowds. But the team at Black Deer have gone out of their way to ensure that families have more than just a relaxed space to soak up the good vibe – here’s just a few of the many reasons that this is one event music loving families shouldn’t miss….
The Young Folk Area
Young Folk who visit Black Deer have their very own dedicated corner of the festival where they can run free and make friends while getting lost in the magic of festival fun. The Young Folk area is like a mini version of Black Deer itself with live music, jam sessions (children are encouraged to tinkle away on the piano), hands on experiences from tree climbing to screen printing plus loads of sensory and play activities for really tiny festival goers.
Shopping
If your kids are anything like mine then they’ll make a bee-line for any opportunity to spend money on any outing! Black Deer really embraces their Country theme by offering a true Americana shopping experience selling everything from cowboy boots to banjos. Prepare to spend hours browsing some really unique clothing brands – every tween’s shopping dream!
The Woodland Tribe
The Woodland Tribe are huge advocates for promoting adventurous play in children. They encourage child led exploration and risk taking allowing independence and confidence to flourish. Expect den building, rope swings, wonky ladders and zip wires – and the kids are expected to get stuck in and help build. Pick up a hammer, grab some nails and get stuck in!
Crafts
Unleash your creativity by getting involved in one of the many arts and crafts activities taking place in the Young Folk area. Our pair loved joining the sessions hosted by Freckles & Fire and Imagine, Make, Play coming home with screen printed flags, foam clay creations and beautifully painted rocks.
Rodeo
Get in touch with your inner cowboy by learning how to lasso, throw horse shoes and of course – ride that Rodeo! Meet genuine cowboys who will share their stories and anecdotes before teaching you some of their skills. Come prepared wearing your finest Stetson and Chaps and get ready to buckle up – yeehaa!
The Black Deer Festival 2022 takes place between June 17-19th. For more information about tickets please visit here. You can read our full 2019 review here.
