Experiences of taking young children to WOMAD?

[martin]

Hi everyone. We're thinking of going to WOMAD for the first time this year, with our 4-year-old son.

It's always hard to judge how much child-friendly stuff there is at a festival. Last year we went to a small festival which said there was a lot to do, but the children's area consisted of a small corner in one field. Not enough to keep a small, energetic, often restless boy happy!

I can see that WOMAD is clearly child-friendly, but it's not entirely clear to me how much stuff there is aimed specifically at kids or families - so that we can alternate between those activities and music/general lounging around.

Please can anyone share their own experiences of taking similarly aged kids to the festival? Also, what's WOMAD like if things turn rainy?

Thanks!

[sc]

Welcome Martin, I have never taken kids to WOMAD but, we did take ours annually to Glastonbury, two boys from the age of 6 & 8, we rarely used the "kids field" at Glastonbury but rather self entertained. However, since going to WOMAD, I've not paid much attention to what is available for kids, but I do know there are workshops and "Kids Parade" around the site on Sunday early evening where all the kids, some artists and performers, have a precession, wearing/carrying what the kids have made in workshops over the weekend. (See clip below)



From a personal view I think the key is, although the toilets at Womad are better than any you will find at any other festival always take Wetwipes just in case, and remember, compromise!  Don't force your son to watch a band you want to see!  Happy kids = Happy parents  

Rain, last year was exceptionally bad, but that was a freak, if it is normal rain they manage extremely well, drains well if not they lay matting or hay down, all good    

Go and enjoy

[calndel]

Hi Martian

Cal has taken a big kid to WOMAD on a number of occasions and as long as he has his bubble wand and hip flask Del is a very happy bunny

as for small children, we have had the pleasure of taking small children to WOMAD but we have seen loads having a good time.

many people end up with decorated hand carts full of small children being transported around the site especially at night when the young ones can snooze with the adult dance away

there is the kids field and parade on the Sunday although last years was shorten due to the mud

one suggestion we would strongly urge you to do is invest in some ear protection for your little one ears

good luck and if you see us (Del is easy to spot with his kilt and tie dye) don't be shy and say hello

[silkenstress]

Hi Martin

I once managed to persuade one of my friends to come to Womad with her husband, son aged 9 and daughter aged about 1 year. Her daughter didn't have much to say about it all but appeared to enjoy the sunshine and music. Alex, her son, absolutely loved it. I think partly because it was the only festival he had every been so it was outside of his experience. But also Alex found lots to do.

Womad is very child friendly and if your son doesn't fancy any of the music, there are also various kids' workshops on everyday. I think a lot of the workshops are held in covered areas so if it turns to Womud, there should still be something for your son.

Oh yes, and as Calndel said, get some proper festival ear protection for your son in case he wants to stand too close to the front of a stage.

Enjoy!

[jimhxn]

I'VE BEEN TO WOMAD SINCE I WAS A BAIRN, ME AND ME DAD USED TO GO RIGHT DOWN TO THE FRONT AND BOP ALONG WITH THE BEST OF THEM. I NEVER USED HEARING PROTECTION AND IT'S NEVER DONE ME ANY HARM!

[calndel]

why are your shouting?

;o)

[jimhxn]

WHAT?

[Purpledawn]

Having a giggle at Jim.

I've never taken a child to Womad myself but my daughter has taken my grandson. He's now 5 and will be there this year. Womad is great for kids but I rather prefer them to be a few fields away from my tent at 6am.