Over 3,000 people attended the annual Picnic in the Park event at Wardown Park on 27 June, co-hosted by the the council's Family Information Service and Pre-School Learning Alliance.
Visitors to this family friendly event had a fantastic time joining in the fun activities specifically designed for the under fives including a royal jewel hunt, flags and crowns making, face painting, royal ten pin bowling, bouncy castle and obstacles courses. Storytelling sessions were hosted by Luton Culture’s libraries service, and Cheeky Dog performed throughout the day.
There were also a variety of information stalls providing advice on healthy eating and oral health, fire and home safety, fostering opportunities, road safety and parents also had the opportunity to meet a number of different childcare providers. Entertainment on the day included Ferrars Junior School’s dance display in the entertainment arena.
Natalie, a mother of two children said: “I’ve been coming every year since my first child was born. It’s a good community event where you can have a picnic with your friends but also get ideas and receive some good information.”
Young mum Naweeda said: “The event is really good as it brings lots of different people together and it’s really informative, it should take place more often.”
Luton’s Mayoress, Rose Knight said: “Picnic in the Park is a great family event bringing different communities together. Not only do the children have a fantastic day out but the parents benefit as well by taking advantage of the variety of information available from healthy eating to protecting your children in the home. There was a great atmosphere at the park and I was really pleased to see so many people in attendance.”
Neil Leitch, CEO from the Pre-School Learning Alliance attended and officially opened the event on behalf of the Alliance and was very impressed with what he saw. He met Alliance member groups and volunteers and said: “I have enjoyed meeting so many people at this successful event and I would love to be invited again next year and hope to bring my children and grandchildren. The families of Luton are fortunate to be so well supported by so many dedicated people and services.”
Picnic in the Park was sponsored by Bartham Group, Kumon Educational UK, and Walls ice cream.