The Festive Gift FairNovember 17–20De-stress your Christmas shopping expedition this year and turn it into a fun, family day out at the NEC Birmingham. The hundreds of sellers in attendance at this four day shopping spectacular will be offering

single for the festive season. Written by college parent Tessa Cox and performed by the children, Christmas In My Heart is about a boy who wishes his father would come home from the war, with proceeds going to charity Help for Heroes. The track

.piccadillymanchester.comDANCECaribbean Carnival of ManchesterWhat: This colourful procession brings a tropical vibe to the heart of Manchester, with singing, dancing and elaborate costumes.Why: Because there’s more to the Caribbean than pirates. When: August 14, 15.Where: Alexandra Park; www.manchestercarnival.co.uk

, Saint Dwynwen's Day, by customising your very own slate heart to give to that special someone at the National Slate Museum.Enter The Dragon!January 22Have a taste of the east at Cardiff’s National Waterfront Museum during these Chinese New Year

If there are sheep on stage, then chances are you’re watching the school’s annual nativity play and your little thespian has been overlooked for one of the plumb, non-baaing parts.But in this interactive performance presented by Crying Out Loud

of the Staffordshire Peak District in the village of Alton (and yes, if your children want still more fun take a day out at Alton Towers). From £264 for three nights.To find out more about fab summer festivals to fill your summer, check out our Junior Festivals Listing.

with the times, and in 2009 reopened after extensive renovation. A light-filled atrium runs through the heart of the building, with the museum’s five floors connected by glass walkways and snaking staircases. Thanks to its open-plan format, visitors are afforded

of the newly restored East Parterre garden and pay a visit to the Perseus and Andromeda fountain with its majestic cascades, running until the end of October.For more fun family days out see our pick of the best Hallowe'en happenings in The Midlands

of Scotland, I like what you’ve done with the place.This was one of our winning entries in our Silver Cross Days Out Travel Writer Competition. Find about out other winners, the Discover Children's Story Centre in London and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

the fearsome Queen Of Hearts, illusive White Rabbit and Alice herself, children can join in with giant games and savour sweet jam tarts.Gruffalo Tea PartyJuly 7Children will feel as if they have taken a stroll through the deep, dark wood when they enter