A number of you have been asking when booking will open for this year’s Family Fest and we hope the following explains where we are.
It is with real sadness that we share the news that Family Fest will not be taking place this year.
We know how much this event means to so many in our community, and we share in the disappointment of having to make this decision. Please be assured this has not been taken lightly.
The good news is that we are already hard at work planning new events for later this year and into next year. We are excited about what is taking shape and hope to be able to share more details with you very soon.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support, encouragement and understanding.
The Family Fest Team
If you have any queries or questions please do not hesitate to be in touch.
What is Family Fest? Family Fest has been running since 2016 at the River Dart Country Park. It a great opportunity to gather together with other families and share a weekend of activities, games, workshops, music and worship. Everyone has a wonderful time as you can see from the comments below and the photos in our gallery.
We returned to the River Dart Country Park in 2022 (after missing 2 years due to Covid) and again in 2023 and 2024 for our fabulous weekend under canvas (or in a caravan/camper). As always we had a brilliant weekend, and were again blessed with great weather.
A poster for the 2024 event is available here.
Who is Family Fest for? Well, for YOU! Families are made up of people of all ages, and we look forward to welcoming families from parishes and communities across the Diocese of Exeter and the South West region.
Family Fest is open to everyone – those exploring faith, re-engaging, or looking to deepen their existing belief. Enjoy a relaxed weekend of family time, getting away from the stresses of the everyday. Children can play together outdoors in a safe environment, whether it’s kicking a ball around on our camping field, playing on the pirate ship, swinging on the high ropes or having a sing-song. For parents, it’s a chance to talk about faith, family and parenting – or whatever they want to share.
Where is it? The River Dart Country Park, just off the A38 near Ashburton and within the Dartmoor National Park – http://riverdart.co.uk/
When is it? Family Fest is usually held over a weekend in mid June though no date is available currently.
What are the arrival and departure times? Arrive after school on Friday and depart after lunch on Sunday (although everyone is welcome to stay and use River Dart Country Park’s facilities for the rest of the day).
What is the programme for the weekend? Friday evening opens with a BBQ followed by games and the opening liturgy in the marquee.
Saturday starts with Morning Prayer and Mass for those that wish, followed by family workshops until about lunchtime. The afternoon is free to explore the extensive park attractions, with everyone regrouping for supper and early evening liturgy.
On Sunday there’s a Bible study for those who wish and a sung Mass at 11am. After lunch Family Fest closes for another year, but you can stay to enjoy River Dart Country Park’s facilities for the rest of the day.
On the Friday and Saturday evenings the marquee becomes a socialising space.
How much does it cost? Once again in 2024 we managed to hold the cost at £25 per person. The price for 2025 is to be confirmed. There’s no charge for children under 3. The subsidised cost includes camping fees for the weekend, worship and workshops, access to River Dart Country Park, and meals on the Friday and Saturday evenings. Day visitors are welcome. For more information please email us on: familyfestsw@gmail.com .
What are the camping facilities like? Family Fest takes over the Picnic Meadow (see http://riverdart.co.uk/park-guide/park-map for a map of the park). This field is for tents, caravans and campervans and has its own amenity block with free hot water and showers, and toilets. There are electric hook-up points if required (available on a first come, first served basis). There are covered washing up areas, water and rubbish points, recycling facilities, and laundry rooms (coin operated).
Please note there is a steep descent into Picnic Meadow, notify us if you are planning to bring a large caravan as you may need to be sited on an alternative field.
Is there catering? Meals on Friday and Saturday evenings are included in the price for weekend campers, or day visitors. All are encouraged to join together for evening meals. Breakfasts and lunches are expected to be provided by campers themselves. There is a tea and coffee tent available for all to use.
What do I need to bring? In addition to all the usual camping equipment, please bring chairs for the worship in the marquee and meals. Please don’t forget plates, cutlery, mugs and glasses for all the family. You’ll need to bring your own breakfast items for Saturday and Sunday, and your lunch on Saturday. Don’t forget suitable items for protection from the sun (we hope..) and something warm and waterproof in case we aren’t blessed with the weather we are praying for.
Can I bring my dog? River Dart Country Park welcomes dogs for day visits and for camping trips (maximum of 2 per pitch). Dogs must be kept on leads at all times on site.
What have people said about Family Fest?
“We had such a fabulous time….. all of the families want to come next year! Importantly, I met people from other churches too.”
“Family Fest was a fantastic success again – the best so far!”
“First weekend at Family Fest! What an amazing time we’ve had. Thank you!”
“We had the best weekend.”
Have a look at our Gallery and view the links below for videos and photographs of previous Family Fest weekends:
2019 – https://www.facebook.com/CofEDevon/videos/1699156923548876/?v=1699156923548876
2018 – https://www.facebook.com/SocietyofStWilfridandStHilda/videos/750107305381243/
Family Fest Southwest 
