Treefest at Westonbirt Arboretum

See the experts carve works of art inspired by the theme of fairytales, at Treefest 2013. © Jamie Koster.

While kids can have a go at tree frog climbing and zip wire through The National Arboretum. © Jamie Koster.

Creative families can try their hand at woodcraft and woodland skills during the three-day celebration of nature. © Jamie Koster.

And don't miss the plethora of local talent performing live every evening at Treefest 2013. © Jamie Koster.

Following the success of last year’s festival, Westonbirt Arboretum will once again be hosting its three-day signature summer event, Treefest, over the bank holiday weekend, from Saturday 24 to Monday 26 August 2013.

There will be family activities to discover in a world of wooden wonders, demonstrations by expert carvers, live music from local talent and the chance to browse, buy and taste from more than 100 food producers and exhibitors selling everything from arts, crafts and jewellery to accessories for the home and garden.

Highlights of the anticipated festival include traditional woodcraft and woodland skills – with visitors being given the chance to have a go themselves – breathtaking displays from Black Mountains Falconry, axe carving and racing by The Welsh Axemen, and the opportunity to see the sawmill in use in the Working Woodlands, throughout the weekend.

Plus, the popular big carving event will make a welcome return, with this year’s sculptors set to create pieces inspired by fairytales.

Storyteller Michael Loader is promising to ignite the imaginations of local little ones, while the Piggery Jokery show, tree frog climbing and exhilarating zip wire rides are also expected to go down a treat.

Meanwhile, music lovers can soak up the sounds of acoustic, soul, country and folk from a selection of local talent set to perform each evening, courtesy of The 4014 Project.

Families hoping to make the most of the bank holiday weekend can book to camp at the nearby Holford Arms pub, which boasts a newly refurbished Camping and Caravanning Club-registered site, modern facilities and country pub atmosphere – with a free shuttle bus operating every morning and evening for campers with weekend tickets.

And what’s more, children under the age of 18 can enjoy free admission to Treefest 2013, promising a well-priced and jam-packed bank holiday weekend at The National Arboretum for the whole family.

© SoGlos

Thursday 04 April 2013