13 July 2011

KidsFest to light up Hagley Park

TV2KidsFest, New Zealand’s biggest annual children festival, kicks off this weekend with more than 140 events and activities taking place across Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri districts between 16 and 30 July 2011.

The festival begins this Saturday evening with The Breeze Light and Flight Lantern Parade in North Hagley Park.

Paul Kean, Christchurch City Council’s KidsFest Coordinator says North Hagley Park will be alight with thousands of lanterns as the parade takes place under the trees at dusk.

“It will be magical to see lanterns moving through the park, under the trees and across the open spaces.

“Kids and families are welcome to come down with their own lantern, torch or anything that lights up and join in the parade.

“CoolStuff, the BeThere Bicycle Band and the Kids Samba Band will take part. We’ve also got great prizes for the best lanterns plus a free barbeque and hot chocolate to keep everyone warm.

“We’ve also organised a fantastic fireworks finale at the end of the parade, so the evening is sure to be a fun night out for families and a great start to this year’s exciting line up of events throughout the festival.”

Children at Christchurch schools have been making lanterns in preparation for the historically huge parade and families are encouraged to make their own at home.

The Breeze Light and Flight Lantern Parade is free for all ages and takes place Saturday 16 July 2011, 5pm – 7pm, North Hagley Park, meet at Harper Ave.

“Tickets have sold out to many events, but a number still have spaces available, especially the bigger shows. We also have plenty of free events to attend that don’t require tickets and some new events have been added to the KidsFest website since our initial programme launch.

“The International Antarctic Centre are screening the new Happy Feet 4D Experience with ten per cent of all proceeds going to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

“There’s also the Fantastic Mr Fox which is a new addition to the programme and of course our major Council events which make up just some of the highlights this year.” said Mr Kean

Brochures are still available from Christchurch City Libraries, Council service centres or visit www.kidsfest.co.nz to plan your TV2KidsFest adventure.

ENDS

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