Join in for a frightfully fun Halloween at Healeys Cyder Farm! Take a spooky tractor ride to their pumpkin patch, pick your perfect pumpkin, and get creative with their carving workshops. Don't miss out on this family-friendly event. Book your tickets now at www.healeyscyder.co.uk
There’s fun for all ages at the Minack this half term.
Join in for The Tempest in a Teacup on 28 & 30 Oct at 10.30am
Fairies, monsters, shipwrecks and romance on a magical island. A one-man storytelling recreation of Shakespeare’s masterpiece, perfect for young children.
Kick off your Sunday shoes to the beat of Footloose: The Musical – Youth Edition, (British Theatre Academy and the Minack Youth Theatre) 1 & 2 November
The all-singing, all-dancing musical based on the Kevin Bacon classic film, packed with hits including ‘Let’s Hear It for the Boy’, ‘Holding out for a Hero’ and ‘Footloose’.
Halloween adventures and wonderful wildlife at Paradise Park this Half Term - 26th October to 3rd November 2024
Special appearances by Mark’s Ark with entertaining, interactive, hands-on creepy crawly and photo-friendly wildlife encounters! 10am-12:30pm 27th, 29th Oct & 1st Nov, plus, 1pm-3:30pm 28th & 31st Oct.
Save £2pp using code 'PRIMARY' between 26th October and 3rd November 2024. Learn frightfully fascinating facts on the Halloween Trail and claim your spooky treat! Discover the extraordinary Dracula Parrot! Special ‘Meet & Greets’ with some wonderful characters like Frank the orange-eyed Eagle Owl. Daily penguin talk and otter feeding plus the amazing lorikeet feeding experience. Weather permitting the stunning free flying Scarlet Macaw flock will be out to fly. Fantastic indoor JungleBarn Play for energetic fun whatever the weather!
Free parking. Infoline 01736 751020. Sat Nov TR27 4HY.
Jules is a professional ventriloquist, entertaining audiences all over the country and on TV. The amazing Jules thrills audiences with her characters namely, Oswald the chicken and the ever-popular Monkey. Jules also provides a disco with lights, a zany, interactive magic show and for the older children, a pop quiz, games, and party dances. In fact, the complete entertainment package provides a magical adventure that even the adults will enjoy. But the star of the party will always be the birthday child.
“Having survived a very busy summer Timbo is now taking bookings for his specially-themed Halloween and Christmas shows. Whether it’s for a birthday party or an organised event Timbo can be with you from start to finish to ensure a stress-free, unforgettable party. Entertainment includes a themed mini disco, party game, fabulous magic show & balloon modelling. We can even provide a Santa for your Christmas party. There is no limit to the number of children you can invite and joint parties are always welcome.
More info is available on our website thepartypeoplecornwall.com and you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/timbothemagicman
Please email info@thepartypeoplecornwall.com for availability and queries”
Want family savings all year round? Download the Warrens Rewards App!
“Enjoy exclusive deals on your favourite baked goods, from promotions on pasties to discounts on doughnuts. Sign up today and receive a freebie on us - a treat to get you started! Scan the QR code and download the app for year-round savings for you and your family. Accumulate Warrens points to spend in-store, win prizes when you make purchases, collect stamps on your digital loyalty card and treat your family to delicious perks!”
“Autumn is a time of change for our littlest guests here at Jungle Jack's as we say bye-bye to our former pre-schoolers who are starting primary school this term. We hope you all have an amazing time at school and come and play again after school or at the weekends and holidays. We now turn our attention to Toddler Time - a fun crafts session for little'uns, which runs every weekday morning in school term time. Each week, in our gorgeous Jungle Room, there is a different craft project to complete. It might be toilet roll robots or monkey masks, paper rainbows, or finger puppets. Simply collect a bag of all the bits and pieces you need from the staff and you can make something together to keep forever. Toddler Time is free of charge if you've here for the 9.30-12.00 play session and you can book here at www.junglejacks.co.uk”
University Centre Truro and Penwith
Alumni from the University Centre Truro & Penwith are certainly showing off their prowess after one former Art & Design student won Arts University Plymouth’s prestigious 2024 Board of Governors Post Graduate Student Prize.
After completing her BA (Hons) Applied Media in 2023 at the University Centre in Truro, Rebecca Williams pursued a master’s degree at the Arts University Plymouth. Her Master’s in photography allowed her to delve into d/Deaf culture and neuroplasticity. Her winning project, a sculpture titled "Resonance," visualised the brain's connections and challenges stigma around d/Deaf awareness.
Rebecca said: “I truly owe much of what I learned to the media team at the University Centre Truro and Penwith. The tutors, staff, and support services are second to none.”
Rebecca has also had her work selected for Imagine Falmouth 2024 at Falmouth Art Gallery.
The Cornish Maize Maze and Fun Farm near Saltash will once again have thousands and thousands of pumpkins of all shapes sizes and colours to pick at Smeaton Farm during October. There will also be a Halloween themed maize maze which will all be included in the entrance price along with all the usual farm animals and farm activities. Lurking in the field there will be some creepy things going on! Let’s talk giant spiders, skeletons, and lots of photo opportunities. The farm is open every weekend in October and every day during half term. Check out their website at www.cornishmaze.co.uk for more details.
Pumpkin Fest at Camel Creek Adventure Park
Saturday 19th October – Thursday 31st October 2024*
Looking for a spook-tacular autumn day out? Join in at Camel Creek for Pumpkin Fest - a seasonal celebration packed with pumpkins, cosy autumn vibes, scenic photo spots, and all the adventure you could want! Plus, expect family-friendly frights and hauntingly good fun around every corner! Don't miss out! Book online now and save up to 20%, plus take advantage of the FREE Return offer!* *Terms and conditions apply. Tickets are available on select dates, so be sure to visit our website for all the details. Find out more atwww.camelcreek.co.uk
Introducing Little Acorns Tutoring
After Parents' Evening, you might be wondering how to help your child. Tracey at Little Acorns Tutoring can provide the necessary support and encouragement to help your child address the targets discussed. If your child is underachieving or working below their potential, Tracey can help bridge any gaps in their learning. Every child is unique, and Tracey’s tutoring offers the opportunity to tailor learning to their individual needs, targets and learning styles, whilst boosting their confidence and enjoyment of learning.
Little Acorns Tutoring provides personalised 1:1 online tutoring and interactive sessions at an appropriate pace with continuous feedback.
The online experience is designed to be as engaging as an in-person session, with the added benefits of utilising technology and saving travel time. Try a short trial session to see how your child responds. Contact Tracey by phone on 07532 194151 or email littleacornstutoring27@gmail.com.
Celebrate the seasons at Bodmin Railway
Get spooky at Halloween in your best Wizard or Witch’s costume. Visit the eerie 1950’s station this October half term for a boo-tiful ride on their steam train, kids travel free all week! Experience the magic of Christmas during December, with Bodmin Railway’s Santa Specials. Join for their popular Santa by Steam Trains, Christmas murder mysteries, wreath and centrepiece making sessions, or a budget-friendly kids craft evening. Make Christmas one to remember and enjoy their brand-new private train rides with Santa, exclusively booked for your family and Santa.
This October half term head to Trelissick and embrace your creativity in the garden as part of a free half term trail. You’ll search for autumn colours on a colour wheel, find the heritage apples hidden in a wordsearch and write an autumn poem.
Take a walk exploring the countryside and tick off some of your ’50 things to do before you’re 11¾’, one of their autumn favourites is #6 ‘go welly wandering’ which is perfect for a wet day exploring.
Trelissick is open daily from 10am until 5pm, admission applies, free for National Trust members.
The Esplanade Hotel in Newquay offers their staying guests a variety of exciting Halloween-themed events for all ages
Enjoy a spooky afternoon tea, perfect for both adults and kids, complete with Halloween treats and decorations. For those looking for a bigger thrill, the hotel also hosts an eerie Halloween party on Sunday 27th October, filled with festive fun, creepy costumes, and ghostly surprises for £15 per child. Whether you're after a family-friendly experience or something more spine-chilling, the hotel’s seasonal events are sure to deliver a memorable Halloween atmosphere.
Trick or Treat Week returns from Saturday 26th October – Sunday 3rd November at Flambards!
Tickets are just £14.95 with 7 days for the price of 1 included, meaning there is a whole host of fang-tastic family fun on offer for less this half term! From Halloween parties, to pumpkin hunts and magic shows, there is something for everyone to sink their teeth into. Plus, don’t miss the Famous Fireworks Spooktacular on Wednesday 30th October, with rides after dark, live music and an award winning firework display!
Primary Times readers can also receive an exclusive 10% discount on tickets! Visit www.flambards.co.uk to book now using code PT10.
Community Circus Workshops in Cornwall
Join Swamp Circus for fun filled Community Circus workshops every Tuesday from 5pm to 6:30pm at either Chyan Dome, Penryn or Hendra Community Centre, Truro. These family-friendly sessions are perfect for all abilities, offering a chance to learn exciting skills like juggling, aerial acrobatics, diablo, and more. Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve, there's something for everyone. Not only is it a great way to have fun, but it's also an enjoyable way to stay active and fit. Bring the whole family and experience the joy of circus arts in a supportive, vibrant atmosphere!
Adults £6, Kids (under 14) £6 - bulk booking available
Step into an enchanting, eerie forest where cobwebbed trees and glowing pumpkins set the stage for a magical Halloween adventure. Designed for kids, this immersive experience is spooky but not too scary. Halloween helpers guide families through twinkling candles, bubbling cauldrons, and surprises along the way. Enjoy a spooktacular story and themed arts and crafts. Before or after, indulge in a sweet and savoury spooktastic high tea—no tricks, just plenty of treats! Dressing up in your Halloween costumes is encouraged for added fun. A perfect family-friendly Halloween outing awaits!’
Discover Spooky Fun and Festive Magic at the Eden Project this Autumn and Winter
This October half term, the Eden Project invites you to explore the freaky and fascinating world of creepy crawlies. Get up close and personal with real-life critters from around the world, including Chilean tarantulas and giant African snails. Explore the marvellous Bug Fair and take part in activities to entertain the whole family, from sticky spider slingshots and slimy snail racing, to teeny tiny crafts! Whizz around the ice rink and embark on a mega-beast safari in the Rainforest Biome.
And the excitement doesn't stop there...
As the festive season approaches, the Eden Project will transform into a sparkling botanical winter wonderland, with twinkling displays lighting up the gardens and the Biomes. Father Christmas and his merry elves are also back for a brand new interactive theatrical experience, guaranteed to delight the whole family.
A mesmerising light and sound show will fill the Mediterranean Biome with festive cheer while enchanting light displays weave among the plants of the tropical Rainforest Biome. Christmas at Eden will take place on selected dates from 22 November 2024 - 5 January 2025. Please check Eden's website to find out what's on each day.
Plus, if you live in Cornwall or Devon, you're eligible for a Locals' Pass. Save up to 45% and enjoy a whole year of unforgettable memories. *T&Cs apply.
Book now at edenproject.com.
Experience the magic of autumn at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary!
Go and meet their adorable seal pups as they recover and prepare for release back into the wild. Watch them swim around in their underwater viewing area and learn their stories of rescue and rehabilitation. Don’t miss their regular seal pup rescue demonstrations to show how their team saves seals in need!
After visiting the pups, puffins and residents, explore the Frightful Bugs and Mini Beasts half term trail at Secret Creek…Perfect for kids and nature lovers alike (26th Oct - 3rd Nov).
With talks and animal feeds, fun adventure playground and café to grab a delicious hot chocolate; the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is the perfect autumn day out for all ages.
Having fireworks at home can be great fun, as long as they are used safely. Figures show more children rather than adults get hurt by fireworks. Over the past five years over 350 pre-school children, some only a year old, were treated in hospital for fireworks injuries.
If you’re putting on a home display, you should follow some simple steps to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt.
The Firework Code
Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.
Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
Keep Your Family Safe -
Sparkler Safety
Did you know that sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil? Sparklers are not toys and safety precautions should be taken to avoid accidents.
Never give sparklers to very young children.
Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves.
Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit.
Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people.
Never hold a baby in your arms while you are holding a sparkler.
When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water.
Bonfire Safety
Children should be supervised near bonfires. One person should be responsible for the bonfire.
Choose a site away from wooden fences, sheds and well away from where the children will be playing.
Never pour petrol or meths onto a fire, it’s safer to use fire lighters to prevent flare-ups.
Keep a bucket of water handy in case of an accident.
Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair.
After the party pour water on the fire, rather than leaving it to burn out.
First Aid Hints for Burns
If clothing is on fire, lie the person down wrapped in heavy material such as a coat or blanket (not made of nylon) and roll them over and over to put the flames out.
DON’T use ANY kind of creams, butter, oil or lotions.
For all burns on young children – seek medical attention.
In all cases if the burn is severe – seek medical attention.
Where to buy your fireworks
Always buy fireworks from a reputable shop to make sure that they conform to British Standards. This means that they should have BS 7114 written on the box.
Think of your neighbours…
Let your neighbours know if you are planning a fireworks party as they may have pets which should be kept indoors. It would be kind to let elderly neighbours and families with young children know there may be some loud bangs.
Fireworks: the law
The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places. You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am. The exceptions are:
Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am
You can only buy fireworks (including sparklers) from registered sellers for private use on these dates:
15 October to 10 November
26 to 31 December
3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.
You can be fined up to £5,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.