There can be very few people who could turn down a free invitation to a day out that sounds so much fun and what's more, one which is happening right here in our very own village.

Taking place from August 11th to August 13th, and aimed at six to eighteen year olds, FunFest 2025 will provide three days of fun filled activities. Bishop Monkton is delighted to be hosting these festivities on Tuesday August 12th at the Village Hall and Playing Fields, with the other two days of events taking place at Ripon Rugby Club (Monday 11th) and Ripon Spa Gardens and Holy Trinity Church (Wednesday 13th).

FunFest 2025 is organised by Ripon Together, which was formed in 2016 as a Community Interest Company, with support from Ripon City Council. It is a not for profit partnership organisation which brings people together to work on projects and activities to help make the city of Ripon a friendly and thriving place to live as well as a welcoming place to visit.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the hall and fields will be awash with activities including a 90ft inflatable assault course, together with opportunities to play cricket, football, tennis, pickleball. badminton, swing ball, rounders and pétanque/boules.

There will be a pop-up photo booth, chill-out space, pop-up youth club and crafts. Table Tennis England will be in attendance with a ball machine and tables as will representatives from North Yorkshire Youth to explain opportunities for young people on offer from their base at Carlton Lodge near Thirsk. There will be a children’s play area, games and drawing. Food and ice creams will be on sale and there will be free drinks and fruit available, all of which can be enjoyed on picnic tables with ample space for a picnic.

Under 11's will need to be accompanied by a parent or carer and spaces must be booked in advance via the Ripon Together website. Click to register or find out more about the other two days.

Sounds like a really great day and all the editor of this website can say is “Can Parents/Grandparents join in too"!