JUSTIN GOES FOR GOLD AT OLYMPIC PARK

As an official LolliBop family, this year myself and the kids just can’t wait to this years event! with such a great line up its one not to be missed.

LolliBop, the UK’s biggest day out for kids, has announced CBeebies Superstar Justin Fletcher will be performing at this year’s event.

Taking place in its brand new home, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the BAFTA –award winning star of CBeebies will be performing live for LolliBoppers on Saturday August 17 and Sunday August 18.

Justin Live! promises an all singing, all dancing extravaganza guaranteed to bring the house down.

LolliBop’s event manager, Jenny Kane said: “Justin Fletcher is top of the charts when it comes to kids entertainment and our new venue deserves to host the number one superstar of CBeebies. We’re delighted Justin is able to be a part of LolliBop 2013.”

The all-mouse reggae band, Rastamouse and Da Easy Crew, are also confirmed for Friday August 16, as part of a busy summer touring the nation. Last seen at LolliBop 2011, the cool, mystery-solving mouse will be back on stage performing his latest hits for fans throughout the day.

Another new addition to the LolliBop 2013 line up is everyone’s favourite postman, Postman Pat and of course, Britain’s most famous black and white cat, Jess! They will be at the festival over the three days meeting pint sized festival goers.

LolliBop promises all the fun of a festival without the hassle of camping. With an incredible line up, all aimed at children under the age of 10, LolliBop combines the hottest names in kids entertainment, as well of hundreds of activities, workshops and interactive areas.

The 2013 programme also includes Dick and Dom, Skylanders, Science Museum Live, Cloudbabies, The Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Peppa Pig, Poppy Cat, the Wot Wots, Transformers, The Go! Go! Go! Show, the Mr Men and Little Miss Village Green Event and Shaun the Sheep’s Championsheeps. LolliBop’s live theatre tent – The Lollipalladiam – showcases performances from pioneering and internationally renowned companies and artists. There is also a brand new Discovery Zone, Meadows area, Enchanted Woods, Lolli Promenade and much more.

Tickets are on sale now, from £20pp.

www.lollibopfestival.co.uk

Lollibop 2013 – Set To Be Better Than Ever

LOLLIBOP SET TO ROCK QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK THIS SUMMER

Today I’m here share mine and children’s excitement in becoming an official lollibop family and give you a little taster on what Lollibop has in store this year.

LolliBop, The Big Bash for Little People, is returning for 2013 to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, with an incredible line-up designed to delight mini festivalgoers.

Joining some of the hottest names in kids’ entertainment, as well as hundreds of activities, workshops and interactive demos, are the Mr. Men and Little Miss Village Green Event and Shaun the Sheep’s Championsheeps LIVE!

The ever-popular Mr. Men will be hosting a fun maypole activity area and favourite characters, such as Mr. Bump, Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine, will be meeting and greeting fans at the Mr. Men and Little Miss reading hubs.

Shaun the Sheep will be personally on hand at the Championsheeps with sheepy shenanigans, including Shirley’s Pie-athalon, the Naughty Pig’s Sack Race and Get Fit with the Flock. Kids and parents are ‘wool-come’ to get involved!

Other big names confirmed so far, include:

– LolliBop favourites Dick and Dom return with their special mix of madcap games, songs, jokes and a foam pie or two…

– Peppa Pig will be at the festival all weekend, meeting and greeting all her little fans

– Sid Sloane and Andy Day will be hosting their very own Big Birthday Bash and everyone is invited! Expect lots of energetic songs and silliness and plenty of audience participation

– Watch and learn how to ‘Copy Poppy’ with Poppy Cat on the Lolli Live stage

– Straight from Nickelodeon to the Lolli Live Stage, The Go! Go! Go! Show are bringing brand new pop songs, catchy, easy-to-learn dance moves and loads of laughs

– Sing and dance along with the adorable Cloudbabies mini show

– Older LolliBoppers will love The Diary of a Wimpy Kid activity, which include exclusive clips of the author Jeff Kinney talking about the books and a master class showing how he draws the characters. There’s also a Wimp Wars quiz

– Experience the life-size Transformer Optimus Prime Truck, along with the Transformers Station; showcasing the new Beast Hunters toys, viewings of the cartoon series Transformers Prime and free green screen pictures

– Witness the amazing wildlife showcase with National Geographic Kids Animal Man

– Laugh along with hilarious antics from the amazing 8ft Titan the Robot

Returning LolliBoppers will also see old favourites mixed with new attractions for 2013, including:

LolliBop Live – Popular CBeebies presenter Alex Winters is comparing the live stage which plays host to some of the biggest names in kids entertainment, with live music and performances from stars of stage and screen.

Lollipalladiam – is a live theatre tent showcasing performances from pioneering and internationally renowned companies and artists. This year it features Spooked, the critically acclaimed Broken Rose Performing Arts first show for children – a hilarious and spectacular blend of dance, theatre and spoken word featuring skeletons Molly, Jinny and Charlie.

Science Zone – Make a rocket, hold a dry ice cube, or get messy with gooey slime in the LolliBop lab – brimming with exploding experiments for pint sized guests to try! London’s Science Museum will also be attending with live demonstrations and interactive activities.

Run wild and have fun in the LolliSports area. With activities including retro favourites like swingball, hula-hoop and frisbee to football tournaments and sports day style races.

3ft and under is also making a comeback but this time is it within the brand new Itsy Bitsy Zone. Activities for babies and toddlers will include soft play, baby massage, storytelling, mini discos and much more

The Lolli Promenade – Situated on the River Lea! We’re very lucky to have a real river running through our new home, so why not relax and enjoy an ice lolly at the Lolli Promenade which also features beach hut crafts and bandstands.

Discovery Zone – will host a number of educational, interactive and hands on activities where kids can learn a new skill like beatboxing in one of the many workshops.

Lolli Stops – Enjoy crafts from puppet making, and customised fashion workshops, to balloon modelling, and graffiti painting, there is a something to make and do around every corner.

The Meadows – A perfect spot to chill out, enjoy your lunch and watch our special street performers.

There is also a wide selection of food and drink stalls at LolliBop. Extensive covered buggy parks, baby changing and breast-feeding areas are also available.

For more tickets and more information: http://www.lollibopfestival.co.uk http://www.lollibopfestival.co.uk

Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom Stage Show Review

Given Little Man and his sister are much older than the toddler (there is a 10 & 7 year age gap) I know how fast it goes and I’m trying to make the Pre-school years as magical as possible for the toddler (and myself).

I know Harley is my last and there will be no more babies! Before I know it he will be off to school like his siblings and to be honest, I’ll be a tad sad.

We have created lots of magical memories of toddlerhood and just a few weeks back we added another of those memories to the list when myself, sister, niece and Harley went to see one of his favourite shows! Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom.

Yep, the live tour has kicked off and we got to see it during its first pit stop, when the stage of the Orchard Theatre Dartford Kent was transformed into a magical fairy kingdom.

The all too familiar theme tune played out as we took our seats and both toddlers ( Harley and niece Amy) could be heard excitedly cheering as they waved and jumped up and down in their seats as Princess Holly took to the stage.

I love these moments, the sheer happiness something so simple can bring to a toddlers life. Harley loves getting to see all of his favourite characters from the TV, only now, his forever requesting “Mum can we see them, please…please?”

The show was made up of a few of the episodes, only with extra scenes added on, in-order to make it that bit more lengthy and entertaining ( let’s not forget the TV episodes only last around 5 minutes each).

The set looked really magical and the show included full size costumes and for one scene beautiful puppets. All of the characters can be found in the show. There is of course Princess Holly and her best friend Ben Elf, plus… Nanny plum, the king, and not forgetting the wise old elf.

What we really loved about this particular show was how interactive it was. There were many fantastic songs that required the children to join in and mimic the actions. Both toddlers loved all this and didn’t need any encouragement from myself or my sister, to get up on their feet and join in.

We had an excellent Sunday morning watching the show and came home with some fabulous Ben and holly light up spinning wands and reading books . We found the merchandise really reasonably priced considering we were at a kids production and I’ve seen much more expensive items in the post.

Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom is brought to life in a truly magical performance. We highly recommend the show to families with little Ben and holly fans (even those who are not, are bound to be by the time the curtain goes down).

The Live stage show is running till July next year. Click Here for your dates and venues.

I bring you the Wilderness Festival

Last year I was overjoyed to win a family ticket with camping to the fabulous Wilderness festival set in the idyllic Cornbury Park Oxfordshire. It was the first year of an amazing new festival and this year they are all set to return bigger and better than ever.

I’m overjoyed at knowing that I will once again be joining festival goers, however this time I’m going child free.

Don’t get me wrong, this is a child friendly festival, but the children are spending this particular weekend with their dad so I’m going to be taking full advantage of the surroundings and of course… The night parties.

THE ULTIMATE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE IN WONDERFUL SURROUNDINGS

Witchwood School of Rock, The Bushcraft Company, Flying Seagull Project, Tea Potty Shed, Barefoot Books and the chance to meet a fairy queen in the forest…just a few of the things for your ‘Little Wild Ones’ to enjoy at Wilderness Festival

Taking place from 10th-12th August at Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire, workshops for kids and adults alike, interspersed with walks into the wilds and an enchanted woodland fairy trail.

Jo Vidler, Creative Director comments:
“We want to ensure that everyone attending Wilderness, no matter what age, can enjoy the unique offerings we have across the weekend. Our curators have raised the bar this year to create the phenomenal ‘Little Wild Ones’ area that will have all kinds of activities for kids. Wilderness will have opportunities for everyone to take part in something that they wouldn’t normally have the chance to experience, and for us that’s key.”

Family friendly entertainment from the Suitcase Cabaret who will host an army of brilliance from comedy to music and activities including, horse riding, fly-fishing, Zumba! classes and Guerilla Geography available across the site. The award-winning festival welcomes back The Bearded Kittens to host the famous ‘Not Your Average’ cricket match on the lawn, complete with lashings of Pimms and piles of cucumber sandwiches, and Future Cinema make their Wilderness debut with a Bugsy Malone takeover complete with a massive splurge fight.

The fabulous Bushcraft Company will be delivering their outdoor adventures influenced by nature, where children will be able to learn bushcraft skills from lighting fires to woodland playing games, shelter building and carving techniques. They’ll also be offering a twist on babysitting with an exclusive kids-only overnight camp where parents can drop their children off at 5pm for them to enjoy a night of walks, games, campfires and cooking with experienced Bushcraft staff. They’ll be back to meet their parents by 11am the next morning – a treat for both children and mums and dads.

Embracing the Wilderness spirit, the ‘Little Wild Ones’ area will be a hive of inspired children’s activity. The Flying Seagull Project returns with a range of entertainment based in a beautiful gypsy-esque, open-sided pavilion tent, complete with vintage horsebox and Willy Wonka style stage. Kids can also discover the magic of nature with a rainbow trail led by the Fairyland Trust. Families will embark on a fascinating journey as they enter a wonderful land of fairy folklore and natural history.

Let their imaginations run wild with a host of spectacular activities and workshops including jewellery making with Amy Surman, a Socktopus puppet workshop, which promotes creative recycling and will hold a dancing parade on the final day, and Witchwood School of Rock – the biggest little rock school in the world. The ‘Little Wild Ones’ also welcomes Hartbeeps – a unique blend of original music workshops and mini productions in this interactive experience.

Are you sitting comfortably? The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre will take adults and children on a trip to the author’s mythical world with poems from ‘Revolting Rhymes’ and ‘Dirty Beasts’, and continuing with the literary theme, enjoy live storytelling music, arts and crafts and yoga from Barefoot Books.

The ‘Pop-up Garden’ will ensure all the family get green-fingered with hands-on knowledge of gardening, the Kite Studio will offer creative clay and print making workshops and Meet the Species returns to Wilderness to engage children with the environment around them, as they identify species in and around the site.

Wilderness is also pleased to welcome Tea Potty Shed with the T Potty ladies and their old-fashioned sweet shop. Children can learn how to weigh out sweets and count out pennies in return for some tasty treats. Also across the festival weekend families can spend some time together and take part in drumming, storytelling, face painting, fairy crown making, cinema, pottery and hula-hooping.

As you would expect at a festival, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! Let the stars guide you on an enchanting woodland fairy trail, filled with beautiful secret fairy houses and the mesmerising Fairy Queen, who will tell old tales of ancient folk law about the nature that surrounds.

Family tickets (two adults and two children) are priced at £260.

For further festival information and tickets to Wilderness Festival, please visit: www.wildernessfestival.com

Sounds awesome… Doesn’t it?
Checkout the lineup below and visit the Wilderness website and Facebook page for more information.

Line-up:
Music
RODRIGO Y GABRIELA performing with C.U.B.A, WILCO, SPIRITUALIZED, SHARON JONES AND THE DAP-KINGS, THE TEMPER TRAP, CRYSTAL FIGHTERS, STORNOWAY, BENJAMIN FRANCIS LEFTWICH, LIANNE LA HAVAS, CLOUD CONTROL, GIANT GIANT SAND, GRANT LEE BUFFALO, JENNY O, FIELD MUSIC, FATOUMATA DIAWARA, MILAGRES, TO KILL A KING, JAKE BUGG, LONDON FOLK GUILD
Cinematic Spectacular
FUTURE CINEMA PRESENT: BUGSY MALONE FESTIVAL TAKOVER ACROSS THE WHOLE SITE AND THE OTHER CINEMA’S PRESENTATION OF ‘LA HAINE’ FEATURING A LIVE RE-SCORE BY ASIAN DUB FOUNDATION

Food
YOTAM OTTOLENGHI, FERGUS HENDERSON + ST JOHN, VALENTINE WARNER, SAM & SAM CLARK’S MORO SOUK DINING TENT, THYME COOKERY SCHOOL

INTELLIGENCE SQUARED, THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY, THE SCHOOL OF LIFE, THE IDLER ACADEMY, THE LAKESIDE SPA, THE HEALING GARDEN

Late night parties
SECRET GARDEN PARTY presents RISE OF THE TRIBES, THE OLD VIC TUNNELS MIDNIGHT MASKED BALL, BOOM BOOM CLUB, RUMPUS, BLOODSTONE’S FEAST OF FOOLS

#Win Family Tickets For The Fabulous Lollibop Festival

It’s almost that time again for this years Big Bash For Little People… The amazing Lollibop.

I’ve seriously been looking forward to next months Lollibop Festival, so much so, there is a danger that I’m more excited about it than the children.

Myself and sister attended last years event along with our toddlers. I have stored away in my mind, the wonderful memory that was the look on my little Harley’s face when he came face to face with all his idols such as Bob the Builder, George Pig and Raster Mouse to name just a few.

Last week I posted an update on this years line up and if you’ve already checked it out then you will know where I’m coming from when I declare it be… Totally Fabulous and worth getting extremely excited about.

Last year, I found that despite the festival heaving with little partygoers everyone got well looked after. The festival is totally accessible for those with disabilities, it even has a raised platform with wheelchair access. which has been directed towards the main stage. This therefore means everyone gets to see their favourite children’s characters over the sea of heads which is formed the crowd. This doesn’t just apply to those in wheelchairs but also those children with autism or sensory processing disorder who cant do the whole crowd thing (normally resulting in meltdowns). Despite the fact little man didn’t attend last year I was confident that the lollibop was ensuring all children and families the time of their lives.

There is just so much to do and see while attending Lollibop that if I went through everything this post would simply never end.

So… Below I have posted a mini update highlighting some of the exciting surprises in store for this years little festival goers.

If You like what you read and I can’t see why you wouldn’t then make sure you enter our awesome competition to win some very sought after family tickets to this amazing event!

ZINGZILLAS & DICK AND DOM TO ROCK REGENT’S PARK
Lollibop, Billed as The Big Bash for Little People, will take place between August 17 and 19 and is aimed at children up to the age of 10.

Festival highlights, include The ‘LolliBop Live’ stage which plays host to some of the hottest names in kids entertainment with performances from the likes of the ZingZilla’s, Jassa Aluwahlia (Art Attack) and The Mr Men & Little Miss Party Roadshow. TV favourites Dick and Dom will also take to the stage to entertain crowds with their unique blend of music and games.

Celebrating its first year in the West End, Shrek the Musical will also make a special appearance with a performance from the award-winning show (Sunday 19 only).

Global phenomenon Moshi Monsters will also be on site, bringing the UK’s first Moshi Monsters Mash Up Tournament to Lollibop. Taking place each day, children are challenged to put their Mash Up skills to the test. All players will also receive a free pack of Mash Up cards, so everyone can join in. Fans are encouraged to bring their own collections with them, as there has never been a better chance to trade with other Moshi Card collectors. Head over to the Moshi tent for lots of other fun and games including character appearances, monster quizzes and more!

Halfords are creating a bespoke Bike City, which will include a Wacky Races obstacle course for under 5’s, where children can be the first to try out a brand new range of Balance and Apollo kids bikes. For older kids, highlights include a BMX stunt display and demo area.

In the Lollipaladium, see the story of The Gruffalo brought to life on the stage with plenty of audience interaction and CBeebies favourite, Mister Maker will be on hand to demonstrate his unique arts and crafts skills.

The brand new life-size Transformers Optimus Prime Truck will also be at the three day event, giving fans the chance to get up and personal with this movie legend.
Other headline attractions include yoga sessions with Waybuloo, workshops by Horrible Histories, Roald Dahl Museum and Storytelling Centre, performances by 8ft Titan the Robot, an Alice In Wonderland tea party and a chance to meet ‘Tiny’, a 125 million years young dinosaur.

Check out the official video (it sure does get you in the party mood)

All of the activities, stages and events are included in the entry ticket price, which start at £22 per person. For more information, including a full programme of events, visit www.lollibopfestival.com

Lollibop have kindly offered me a family pass (consisting of 4 tickets) to give away to one lucky “A Boy With Aspergers” reader. This is a brilliant prize, one worth over a £100 so if your wanting to attend its really worth entering.

All you have to do is complete the mandatory question below leaving the answer in a comment which includes some form of contact details (twitter handle or email is fine).

Question… What will the Moshi Monsters bring to the Lollibop for the first time?

Extra entries (one comment to be added for each additional action please)!

Tweet: “I want to win a family ticket to the #Lollibop with @clairelouise82 & @loillbopuk”

Follow me on twitter

Follow the Lollibop on twitter

Like the Loillbop Facebook page

Pin this Competition on pinterest and include the following hash tag #Lollibop use the button located on the sidebar or if you have one in your tool bar that’s even better.

Lastly: Google + 1 this Competition.

T&Cs
Standard publication T&Cs
• A family pass is 4 tickets to the event and can be used on either Friday 17 August or Sunday 19 August.
• The prize is non refundable and non exchangeable
• No cash alternative will be offered
• Travel is not included
• Closing date is 20th July 23rd July 2012 at 5pm

Competition open to those in the UK only, please leave a contact with your comment so I can contact you in the event you win. Winners are given 72 hours to respond to winning notification. Drawn at random.

 

 

ThePrizeFinder – UK Competitions

Loquax Competitions

LolliBop 2012

Last year myself and the youngest member of the household, got to experience a fun filled day at the fabulous Lollibop festival, the festival especially for tenny boppers. Seriously, I cannot put into words how awesome an event this really is!

A few days back I received an email informing me that the Super Early bird tickets for this exciting event have now gone on sale (as of the 22nd March)! Trust me, last year this was an absolute sell out and you really don’t want to miss out!

LOLLIBOP SUPER EARLY BIRD TICKETS ON SALE

LolliBop 2012 tickets went on sale Thursday, 22 March for a super early bird price of £19.50pp. There are a limited number of tickets available at this special price for the family event, which is returning to Regent’s Park, August 17-19.

LolliBop are delighted to announce Halfords as an official partner for the 2012 event.  Halfords will create a bespoke Bike City at LolliBop, which will include a Wacky Races obstacle course for under 5s, where children can be the first to try out a brand new range of Balance and Apollo kids Bikes. LolliBopper’s will be the first in the country to ride the new bikes, which are available to buy exclusively at Halfords from September. For big brothers and sisters highlights include a BMX stunt display and demo area.

Pint sized guests (and grown ups) will notice a few more additions to the 2012 event.

The ‘LolliBop Kitchen‘ will bring an exciting new area to the event, where LolliBoppers will have the chance to learn new skills from live demonstrations and interactive workshops.  A new ’Tween‘ area will play host a number of activities including street dance, hula hoop, and beatbox workshops, and even it’s very own laser room!

Other new areas include ‘The LolliBop Human Zoo’, ‘The Disco Shed‘, and the ‘The Village Green‘ (with its own live music, craft stalls, and street theatre).

Back by popular demand, the Science Museum are preparing for a triumphant return to Regent’s Park with an expanded area and dedicated Science Zone.

For pre-schoolers, the ‘3 ft & Under’ area is back.  Confirmed activities include a mini disco, tiny play, little arts, yoga, teddy bears picnic and baby salsa.  An extended covered buggy park is also being created.

Old favourites, including ‘LolliSports‘, ‘Imagination Stations‘, ‘Itsy Bitsy Strictly‘ and ‘The Enchanted Forest‘ will all return for 2012.

And of course no festival would be complete with a live stage.  ‘LolliBop Live’ will play host to some of the hottest names in kids entertainment, with some surprises for adults to.  Headliners to be announced soon.

LolliBop Super Early Bird day tickets are on sale now priced £19.50pp (numbers are limited). http://www.lollibopfestival.co.uk

Related articles

• Lollibop’s Mini Disco at the Ministry of Sound London 2012 (aspergersinfo.wordpress.com)

Anna Kennedy & Pineapple Performing Arts School Presents… Autism’s Got Talent

Anna Kennedy is an inspirational woman and those who don’t believe me can ask those at the Daily Mail what with her being awarded with the Daily Mail’s most inspirational woman award presented by Samantha Cameron. Anna is the mother of two boys both affected by autism and as well as being the founder of a number of schools, charities and centres for those on the autism spectrum (including the school that my own son attends) she’s also busy working on a number of campaigns, Act Now and the Anti Bullying campaign to name but a few!

So, it’s amazing how this busy mum can possibly fit anything else in!

Well, she has!

On Saturday 12th May at the Mermaid Theatre, London, Anna will be presenting with the help of Pineapple Studios ‘Autism’s Got Talent’.
Anna is bringing together a diverse group of talented people all on the Autistic Spectrum, with the aim of showing the public just how talented they are!
Anna state on her site “All too often many people in society make the mistake of thinking that anyone with a disability is capable of very little……HOLD THE PRESS…….on this evening we will be showing everyone just what all these great people really are capable of and just how good they are at it!”

The night which has been rumoured as a red carpet event, with some well know faces planed to make an appearance , will showcase talent in many forms, ranging from performers with instruments to singers and dancers. Stars will be performing not only as soloists but some will also be coming together to perform in a group (something that many people on the autism spectrum are noted to have difficulty achieving).

Anna has also said that because talent stretches way beyond the field of performance, the night will also celebrate those fantastic people who have done other amazing things, showing great skills in areas such as writing, art and even extreme physical endurance.
Anna hopes it will be a night that will open the eyes of those who previously didn’t realise just what someone on the Autistic Spectrum is capable of.

 On the night of the performance, audience members will be able to to view a number of informative dipslays including some of the art work and creative writing done by some of the guest appearing during the course of the evening.

Doors to the event will be opening at 6pm so it is encouraged that people come along at that time as to take advantage of the displays in plenty of time before the grand performance starts.
Tickets are being sold for the low price of £10 and everyone is welcome.

Note: A theatre/audience situation is not suited to all on the spectrum but this will be a very understanding and Autism Aware Audience so we don’t want anyone to feel that they can’t come or that a parent should automatically think they can’t bring a child with them. It is hoped that this will be an audience that is mixed of those on the spectrum and those that aren’t.
Tickets are available now and can be purchased now by calling 01895 619734 or enquiries to lisa.robins@thevines.org.uk

Related articles

• Special School – Don’t write it off! (aspergersinfo.wordpress.com)
• A talented teenager with Aspergers Syndrome wins art competition (aspergersinfo.wordpress.com)
• Jessica Boling: Program for adults with autism expands (knoxnews.com)
• AAPC Publishing Offers a Guide for Parents with Students on the Autism Spectrum as They Transition to College (prweb.com)
• Not Seeing It From The Outside But In The Inside I’m Autistic (growingupautistic.wordpress.com)

Sainsbury’s Presents Plans for A Massive 2-Day Jubilee Party in London’s Hyde Park

I’ve heard a lot of chatter over the queens diamond Jubilee, through so far its been nothing too exciting!

Well, that was in-till I received a certain email
and now it would seem, that I have finally found something to get excited about at long last!

Check it out, a massive Jubilee party hosted by Sainsbury on…

Saturday 2 June, Sunday 3 June 2012 – Hyde Park London

Sainsbury’s is delighted to announce that the ‘Jubilee Family Festival Presented by Sainsbury’s’, will be hosted by the incomparable Myleene Klass and the UK’s favourite impressionist Jon Culshaw throughout the two-day fun-filled family Jubilee celebration. War Horse, the thrilling and spectacular West End production, has been confirmed to join the festival’s programme. The event will also play host to the very first performance, specially designed for a festival, from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing presented by BBC Worldwide and hosted by Craig Revel Horwood. Already confirmed to return to this special Strictly Come Dancing dance floor is 2011 finalist Chelsee Healey. The event will take place in Hyde Park, on Saturday 2 June and Sunday 3 June 2012 from 10.30am – 7pm daily, with a capacity for 50,000 ticket holders on each day.

Jon Culshaw said: “I am honoured to be a part of the Jubilee Family Festival and to share the celebratory hosting duties with the stunning Myleene Klass. This unique event has more faces than I do and will be a brilliant way of keeping the family entertained in London for the Jubilee festivities.”

Choreographed especially for The Jubilee Family Festival the event will feature appearances by the puppets and actors from the National Theatre’s award-winning production of War Horse, currently playing at the New London Theatre. This unique and special arrangement will feature Joey and Topthorn, the breath-taking life-sized horse puppets who become the equine heart of the story, alongside the stunning musical arrangements and songs from the critically acclaimed production.

The Festival, with an action-packed and imaginative fun-filled programme, is being hosted by The Royal Parks and organised by world-famous promoter Harvey Goldsmith CBE on behalf of Sainsbury’s.

The finale of each day will be ‘The Magic Of Disney In Concert’ starring Princesses and Pirates, an unforgettable, 70-minute Disney concert produced specially to mark the Jubilee celebrations, featuring beloved Disney songs and characters.

The Jubilee Family Festival will be a once in a lifetime experience for the whole family to enjoy.  Taking place in Hyde Park over two full days, visitors to the festival will be able to view the BBC live feed, on giant screens, of all of the Diamond Jubilee events on 2 June and 3 June, as well as being treated to some of the nation’s best live music and entertainment, including favourite kids television characters, celebrity performers and dancers, equestrian events and death-defying motorcycle displays, Commonwealth-inspired acts from around the globe and, of course, great food and drink from Sainsbury’s. Sainsbury’s has also teamed up with some of Britain’s best-loved brands who will be an integral part of the family fun and entertainment.

Inspired by the great British tradition of village fetes and street parties, The Festival will be themed around 60 years of great British heritage and will include influences from across the Commonwealth.

NOW TELL ME THIS DOESN’T SOUND GREAT!

I don’t know about you guys but the prospect of getting to dancing with the children to a Disney concert sounds super (though it sounds as if a very large crowd will be attending, so, Little man may rather stay with his dad, we will have to wait and see)!

Here’s a break down of the entertainment zones for this 2 day’s partying in Hyde Park!

Entertainment Zones:

o       Main Stage ‘The Magic Of Disney In Concert’ starring Princesses and Pirates, The BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing hosted by Craig Revel Horwood and starring Chelsea Healey, War Horse plus performances from YouthMusic Voices, Ramin, Laura Wright and much more to be confirmed.
o       The Kids Zone featuring a series of live and interactive stage and shows from some of the UK’s most well-loved children’s characters including Thomas & Friends, Fireman Sam, Bob The Builder, Angelina Ballerina and brand new kids favourite Mike the Knight.
o       Disney Zone featuring themed activities, the life-size Lightning McQueen, Mater and Finn McMissile from the Disney/Pixar blockbuster Cars 2, and much more.
o       Parade Ground featuring a variety of British pomp and ceremony including The British Imperial Military Band, The White Helmets Display team (Royal Signals), RAF Police Dog Display team, The Royal Gloucestershire Hussars Skill-At-Arms Display Team, The Drum Horse of The Queen’s Royal Hussars and The Black Knights Parachute Display Team Royal Artillery.
o       CommonwealthStage Throughout the weekend the best cultural entertainment from around the Commonwealth will entertain: Jaipur Maharaja Brass band, The Mahotella Queens, London African Gospel Choir, Harambe Female Drummers and New Zealand Maori Kapa Haka Performers.

Roaming the Festival will be English Gentleman on stilts, Singing Tea Ladies, Pearly Kings and Queens, Marching Bands and Face Painters.

Great British food will be plentiful, serving up pies, roasts, pastries, fish and chips, cream teas, jellied eels and the traditional British breakfast.

Over 35 of Britain’s favourite brands will be providing additional fun and entertainment with competitions, games and displays.  Many great British brands will have stalls at the Festival, both selling and exhibiting their products and produce.

More artists and entertainment will be announced in the coming weeks www.sainsburys.co.uk/jubilee

Ticket Information & Availability:

Tickets are available now from Ticketmaster or Seetickets:

 Online: www.ticketmaster.co.uk
From the UK: 0844 847 1661  From outside the UK: +44 161 385 3211
Online: www.seetickets.com
From the UK: 0844 858 6760 From outside the UK: +44 1142 249 784

No booking fee applies.

Ticket Prices:

Tickets: £20
Under16’s: £12.50
Family Ticket (2 Adults and 2 Children): £52
Children under 3: Free

Ticket Ballot:

From 28 March, millions of Sainsbury’s customers will be able to enter a daily ballot for free family tickets.  Customers who spend £60 in store will receive a coupon at the till with a code to enter into the Sainsbury’s website.  Within 24 hours families will be notified if they have won a family ticket.

So, you lovely lot, let me know what you all think! For those with alternative plans, I’d love to know what your up to?

Related articles

• Sainsbury’s sponsors Jubilee Woods Project (greenreview.blogspot.com)
• Sainsbury’s claims it won festive food fight (mirror.co.uk)
• Sainsbury’s stores encourage customers to ‘Take a Step’ for Fairtrade (greenreview.blogspot.com)

Lollibop’s Mini Disco at the Ministry of Sound London 2012

Last year was a lot of fun in the ‘Boy with Aspergers’ household! We got invited to some pretty amazing events, one of the best being the ‘Lollibop’s Big Bash For Little People’ back in August, where me and Harley (Little man’s baby bro) were lucky enough to obtain V.I.P tickets. The festival, held at London’s Regents Park, was an awesome summer spectacular, organised completely around tenny boppers, all the CBeebies favourites were present, as well as others, such as, Peppa & George pig & Ben & Holly from the Magical kingdom. A truly brilliant day was had by all and we just can’t wait for this years Lollibop festival. 

 However, in the meantime, the organisers of this magical event have pulled together something very exciting for the coming half term… Lollibop’s Mini Disco, being held at the not so mini ‘Ministry of Sound’ London.

 How can this mummy really not get excited about such a thing… Ministry of Sound holding an event for the littlest of ravers, whoopee… I have spent my fair share of time dancing to the sounds of the biggest club anthems under this night clubs famous roof, I cannot wait to see the little ones grace its dance floor.

Image by Atatiwa Flickr via Flickr

 

  The team behind the biggest kids event of summer 2011, are now bringing us this new one-off, very exciting half-term treat to the doors of the famous Ministry of Sound this coming February 2012. 

 The disco is guaranteed to keep children aged 3-10 years entertained, what with special guest appearances from the likes of Scooby Doo and award-winning children’s entertainer, Allin Kempthorne, how can it not? That’s not all, the event will delight little ones with its array of workshops and activities, such as Beat Box lessons, allowing older attendees to learn a new skill that is bond to blow the socks of their super impressed school mates when they return back to school following the half term break (not to sure the teachers will be impressed, but hay hoo)! If beat boxing really isn’t your child’s idea of fun, there is so much more to choose from, such as, hula hoop workshops, storytelling (for those that want to chill out) bubble shows and of course, dance games ( oh, now I have visions of my daughter really getting her groove on)!

Image via Wikipedia

 

 Lets not forget now… this is a party and parties require lots of music! Well, In true Ministry of Sound fashion, they’ll be plenty of dancing too when TV favourites Dick and Dom take to the decks.

 So… Don’t let your little ones find out about it from somebody else (yes, I do mean that spoilt little school friend) super cool and trendy mummy’s (yes…. like me) hear these things first. Those looking for the ultimate half-term treat need look no more, as it’s my opinion that you’ve just found it!

Tickets cost  £10.00 per person. Call 0208 365 9695 or go to www.lollibopfestival.co.uk for more details.

Drinks and light refreshments are available to purchase at the venue.

As for the fantastic LolliBop’s Big Bash for Little People  this will return in full this summer to Regents Park (August 17th, 18 and 19th, 2012)) Full line-up to be announced soon. www.lollibopfestival.co.uk

Note:

 ·     The event is aimed at ages 3-10 but those younger & older are able to come (No admittance for under 16s without an adult)

·      Space is limited to 900 tickets and will be sold on a first come first serve basis

·      Ticket prices are per person and are applicable to everyone over the age of 12months