Overview
Saturday 4th July 2026, 10:00am – 3:00pm
After an incredible 2025 event that welcomed families from all across Nottinghamshire and beyond and brought together 60+ amazing providers, we’re thrilled to announce that NBT Fest is back for 2026 — and it’s going to be bigger, better, and even more magical!
Join us for a vibrant, family-first mini festival created especially for babies, toddlers, and the people who love them.
📅 Saturday 4th July 2026
⏰ 10:00am – 3:00pm
📍 Haydn Road Pavilion & Sports Ground, Sherwood, Nottingham NG5 1EB
Just £2 Entry – Keeping It Affordable for Families
Entry to NBT Fest 2026 is just £2 per person. Last year’s event was free as part of our 5th year anniversary celebrations, and this year we’ve introduced a small £2 contribution to help cover event costs while keeping it affordable and accessible for all families.
What is NBT Fest?
NBT Fest is a joyful, inclusive celebration of early years, parenthood, and community — hosted by the Nottingham Baby & Toddler Community.
Now in its fifth year, the festival brings together families and trusted local providers for a day filled with play, creativity, connection, and support. It’s more than just a day out — it’s a space where families can explore, learn, and feel part of something special.
Why We Do It
With increasing pressure on local services and funding cuts across Nottingham, events like NBT Fest are more important than ever.
We believe:
- Early years matter — shaping lifelong health, wellbeing, and development
- Parents and carers deserve support during these crucial years
- Community connection builds stronger families
NBT Fest brings everything together in one place — making it fun, accessible, and meaningful for every family who attends.
What to Expect in 2026
Get ready for a full day of fun, discovery, and entertainment:
🧸 Free-flow play for babies and toddlers
🎨 Music, messy play, crafts & interactive sessions
🧚 Meet & greet with favourite characters
🌳 Outdoor and forest play experiences
🎤 Live entertainment and performances
🍔 Delicious food stalls and refreshments
🛍️ Local family-friendly stalls and services
🎈 Activities for older siblings
🗣️ Parent talks and wellbeing sessions
📸 Pop-up photography moments
🎠 Rides, inflatables & adventure play
Plus, much more including meet a wide range of local providers, from activity leaders and educators to support services and community organisations — all there to connect with you.
Who Can Attend?
NBT Fest is designed primarily for children aged 0–5 years, but it’s a day for the whole family:
- Older siblings are welcome
- Grandparents, relatives, and carers encouraged to join
- All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
- (and Adults must attend with a child!)
Event Information
Accessibility
The event takes place in a pram-friendly outdoor space with accessible facilities.
Facilities include:
- indoor Toilets and baby changing (indoor & outdoor)
- Space for blankets, chairs, and small sun shelters
Please note:
- No large tents or gazebos
- No dogs (except registered assistance dogs)
- No alcohol permitted on site
Payments:
Cash and card accepted
Food & Drink
A variety of hot food and drink vendors will be available throughout the day.
You’re also welcome to bring your own picnic and enjoy the relaxed festival atmosphere.
A Growing Community Event
Last year’s event showed just how powerful this community is:
🌟 3,000+ families attended
🌟 60+ providers and vendors involved
🌟 A full day of connection, joy, and support
We also listened carefully to your feedback. You told us that clearer signage was needed for toilets, so this year wayfinding will be more visible and easier to follow throughout the site. You also asked for better access to caffeine for tired parents and carers, so we’ve added two dedicated coffee vans to keep everyone fuelled throughout the day.
Many of you said you’d love more opportunities to contribute, so while entry remains just £2 per person, we will also continue to welcome voluntary donations on the day, including additional fundraising at the gate in support of our Charity of the Year, Home-Start Nottingham.
We’re also improving:
- Additional baby changing facilities to reduce waiting times and improve accessibility
- Clearer zoning of older sibling activities
- A more visible “help point” for lost children, questions, and support.
Stay Tuned
A full event schedule, lineup, and activity details will be announced soon.
👉 Follow us on social media to be the first to hear updates, announcements, and exciting reveals!
Instagram: nottinghambabytoddlercommunity/ (opens in new tab)
Join Us
Whether you’re coming for the play, the community, the support, or simply a great family day out — NBT Fest 2026 is not to be missed.
We can’t wait to welcome you
Contact
Costs
Just £2 Entry