3Foot and Fling return in 2023

The organisers of Chelmsford’s beloved festival for under-fives, 3Foot People, have announced a return for the event in July 2023 – and a sneak preview with a series of mini-events planned for the late summer.

Unique festival for pre-schoolers

Held at Chelmsford’s Hylands Park, the 3Foot People Festival is the UK’s largest outdoor festival exclusively for pre-schoolers.

Set amongst a cosy village of tents and tepees, it’s a child’s paradise of crafts, messy play, activities, theatre and storytelling, music, inflatables, tasty food and even a giant sandpit.

You and your little reveller can discover an array of wonders around every corner, creating memories as you go. There are chillout areas too, where you can relax and wind down together between having fun.

3Foot and Fling festivals both return next year

Like so many others, the festival has been cancelled during the pandemic, but its return has now been confirmed for next year.

Fling Festival will also be back in 2023, following straight on from 3Foot at Hylands. The quirky festival won’t just be for over-18s this time around; it will have more of a Glastonbury vibe in 2023 with families also welcome.

“

“We’ve missed the joy of 3Foot so much – we’re really proud of our renowned event for pre-schoolers. After restrictions ended early this year, my team pulled out all the stops to try to make both 3Foot and Fling happen for 2022 – but they’re such big events that it just hasn’t been possible despite our efforts.

"We want to meet the high standards you’re used to and we’re looking forward to doing just that with the return of these popular festivals in July 2023.”

Marc De’ath, Chelmsford City Council’s Culture Services Manager

3Foot preview pop-ups in 2022

In the meantime, little ones and their big people can experience a bit of 3Foot magic at a series of one-off 3Foot pop-up events in the city. Featuring festival favourites and plenty of fun, these will give you a flavour of what to expect in 2023.

Details will be announced soon, as will dates and booking links for 3Foot 2023. To be first to hear, sign up to Chelmsford City Council’s ‘What’s On: Festivals and Events’ mailing list or follow @3footfestival on Facebook.