The Snap Dragon Children and Families Festival is returning to Argents Mead in Hinckley for three days in August 2026. The festival runs from Monday 3 August to Wednesday 5 August, from 11am to 3pm each day, and is free to attend.

Each day features a different theme. Monday 3 August is Mythical Magical Moments, with appearances from the festival's dragon character Snappy and dragon empress Saphira. Activities include dragon flow workshops, magic tricks, musical instruments in the Rainbow Tent, meetings with fairies, and storytelling from Tom the Tale Teller.

Tuesday 4 August is Active Hinckley & Bosworth's Try It Takeover. Visitors can try a range of sports and activities, visit an under-fives area, watch performances from Spartans Kickboxing Academy and Lee Academy of Dance and Drama, and watch the annual Mascot Race. A visit from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue is planned, subject to emergency callouts.

Wednesday 5 August is Once Upon a National Play Day. Visitors are invited to dress as their favourite book character. The day includes poems, raps and beatboxing from Leicester Poet Laureate Mr Shay, a story tent, readings of winning stories from the Borough Council's Story Writing Competition, and circus skills and role-play activities.

Free activities and facilities

Throughout the festival, free activities include a giant sandpit, Snappy disco, craft tent, teddy bears' picnic, giant drawing and garden games. There is also a book exchange and fancy dress swap shop. Fair rides operate on a paid basis, and food and craft stalls are available. Community information stands and a calm corner for children with sensory needs are provided. Fosse 107 will provide music over the three days.

Cllr Mark Bools, Deputy Leader of the Borough Council, said: "This much-loved festival continues to bring joy to families and children of all ages, offering a wide range of fun activities in a safe and welcoming environment. We understand that family days out can often be costly, which is why I'm proud to say this event is completely free to attend and open to everyone. I hope as many people as possible will come along and have a lot of fun."

For detailed timings and activities, visit the Borough Council's social media channels.