As the summer holidays approach, the city of Norwich is gearing up for a fantastic week of free activities and events, courtesy of CityGates Church. For the fourth consecutive year, the church is hosting Summerfest, a highly anticipated event that promises to be bigger and better than ever before. This year’s Summerfest is set to take place in Waterloo Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city, from Saturday, July 19th to Friday, July 25th. The event is designed to bring the community together, offering something for everyone, regardless of age or interests. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting the city, Summerfest is an event not to be missed.
At the helm of Summerfest is Bev Dubberley, the lead organizer, who is thrilled to share the excitement of this year’s event. “There’s something for everyone at Summerfest!” she exclaims. “We’ve got a fantastic lineup of activities, including inflatables, face-painting, games, and even the return of the popular Summerfest Dog Show on Sunday. And, of course, plenty of opportunities to win prizes and enjoy some free refreshments in the sunshine!” The event kicks off on Saturday and Sunday with free fun days, which are sure to be a hit with families and individuals alike. With the sun shining and a host of exciting activities to enjoy, Summerfest is the perfect way to spend a summer weekend in Norwich.
One of the new additions to this year’s Summerfest is the Toddler Café Stay-and-Play, which takes place on Monday, July 21st, at 10 am. This is a fantastic opportunity for parents and caregivers to meet new people, enjoy a cuppa, and let their little ones play and socialize in a safe and welcoming environment. Additionally, Summerfest is hosting Youth Nights on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings, specifically designed for 11-16 year olds. These nights promise to be an absolute blast, with crazy games, a silent disco, nerf gun battles, craft sessions, music, snacks, and Bible talks. The Youth Nights are an excellent way for young people to meet new friends, try new activities, and have an unforgettable experience.
For children aged 4-11, Summerfest offers an epic week of games, Bible stories, and challenges as part of the Explorer’s Holiday Club. Parents can drop off their kids and relax over a cup of coffee at the Parents Café, which features daily pop-up talks at 10 am. These talks cover a range of topics, including helping children navigate big emotions and planning summer fun on a budget. The Parents Café is a wonderful resource for caregivers, providing a supportive and informative environment to connect with others and gain valuable insights. Meanwhile, the kids will be having the time of their lives, enjoying a wide range of activities, games, and crafts. Summerfest afternoons are filled with excitement, and the café is back in action, offering a variety of free refreshments.
As the sun begins to set, Summerfest Nights take center stage, featuring American Line Dancing and a classic Pub Quiz. These events are perfect for adults and teenagers alike, providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere to socialize, dance, and test your knowledge. Whether you’re a line dancing enthusiast or a quiz buff, Summerfest Nights are an excellent way to spend a summer evening in Norwich. The big white marquees in the middle of Waterloo Park will be the hub of activity, so be sure to join in on the fun from July 19th to 25th. You can find out more about Summerfest and sign up for the children and young people’s events on the CityGates Church website: www.citygatesnorwich.org/summerfest25.
As the countdown to Summerfest begins, the city of Norwich is buzzing with excitement. With its diverse range of activities, events, and entertainment, Summerfest is an event that promises to bring the community together. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Summerfest is an experience not to be missed. So why not join in on the fun, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories in the beautiful surroundings of Waterloo Park? With candyfloss, prizes, and a host of exciting activities on offer, Summerfest is the perfect way to spend a summer week in Norwich. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Summerfest 2025!
