- Play Hard
- 1st Aug 2025
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WWT Washington Wetland is hosting the Dragonfly Festival this summer – and you don’t want to miss it
- Advertisement Feature
When the school holidays roll around, most of us are on the hunt for fun, affordable days out in the North East that keep the kids entertained and give everyone a chance to slow down, unplug, and reconnect.
This summer, WWT Washington Wetland Centre is transforming its nature reserve into a vibrant celebration of all things wild and wonderful with its Dragonfly Festival — and we’re calling it one of the North East’s most magical family days out.
Find out more about WWT Washington’s Dragonfly Festival here.
A summer of adventure in the wild
Running throughout the summer holidays, the Dragonfly Festival is an invitation to dive into the dazzling world of dragonflies while discovering just how incredible wetlands really are. Whether you’re visiting with curious toddlers, school-age adventurers or teens looking for something different, WWT Washington offers hands-on fun that feels miles away from screens and everyday routines.
From pond dipping and minibeast hunting to wild walks and interactive art workshops, this is nature at its most entertaining.
Further memory-making moments and fun headline events are also being offered to festival-goers, who can take part in special family fun days over the summer holidays. Dragonfly-themed stilt walkers and bubbleologists will join forces to entertain the crowds, face painting will add colour to the day, and interactive activities bringing the nature vibe to visitors of all ages.
There’s also a special silent disco weekend planned too – a fantastic family experience all round…
THE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS NOT TO MISS
Pond Dipping
Grab a net and prepare to get stuck in. The interactive Pondzone lets families explore the fascinating underwater world, searching for water snails and great diving beetles to their formidable larvae and pond life surprises.
Dragonfly Family Fun Days
Expect stilt walkers, bubbleologists, and face painters bringing dragonfly-themed carnival energy to the wetlands on select dates. These are the perfect days to visit if you want extra magic – and a chance to meet the Dragonfly Festival’s larger-than-life characters. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, curious family, or simply looking for a unique day out in the Northeast, the WWT Dragonfly Festival is not to be missed.
Dragonfly Resin Art Workshop with Mrs BArts
Join local artist Amy Brooks (aka Mrs BArts) in a hands-on UV resin workshop, where kids and adults can create their own dragonfly-inspired charms and jewellery. Perfect for a mindful, creative break between exploring. Booking essential.
Iridescence: A new outdoor art installation
Set over water, this brand-new installation mimics the beating rhythm of dragonfly wings through shimmering, floating sculptures and an immersive audio journey. It’s a moment of calm and connection, inviting visitors to observe the beauty, grace and importance of dragonflies and the wetlands they call home.
Silent Disco Weekender
Yes, you read that right – a silent disco in the wetlands. Strap on your headphones and let loose with your little ones in an unforgettable outdoor dance session surrounded by nature. A truly unique family memory in the making.
The most magical day out…
WWT Washington is so much more than just a nature reserve. There are woodland trails, flamingos, otters, wildflower meadows and waterside boardwalks filled with educational activities at every turn. With so much to explore you’ll want to stay all day, and you absolutely should.
Pack a picnic or refuel at the on-site café, bring the dog (on leads in designated areas), and let the whole family enjoy the slower pace and sense of wonder that only nature can bring.
Plan your visit and save 15%
Ready to make memories? Download the WWT Washington app via the App Store or Google Play and receive 15% off your admission when you book through the app.
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WWT Washington Wetland Centre, Pattinson, Washington NE38 8LE
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