The February half term has rolled around earlier than usual this year and if you're looking for inspiration there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Wales - from outdoor events to stage shows.
Half term takes place from Saturday, February 10 until Sunday, February 18 and everywhere from Folly Farm to Mumbles Pier and Margam Park have made plans for the school break.
Here are some of the best things to do in Wales during the week ahead. And if you are after free or cheap things to do in Cardiff, in particular, click here. You can keep up to date with the latest What's On news by signing up to the newsletter here.
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Chinese New Year - Newport
For the first time Newport is celebrating the Chinese New Year. Called The Dragons Are Coming the event will take place on Saturday, February 10, and will be filled with performances, workshops, and activities all celebrating the spirit of the Lunar New Year.
Beginning at 10am in Friars Walk, there will be a procession bringing the city centre streets alive with energy and excitement thanks to mesmerising lion dancers. The procession will make its way to The Riverfront Theatre for a day of free activity for all ages taking place from 11am - 5pm.
There will be workshops to join in celebrating a range of Chinese crafts and traditions including shadow puppetry, Chinese tea ceremony, and calligraphy, alongside spectacular music and performances.
National Trust - across Wales
Lots of National Trust properties across Wales are running half-term activities. This includes Newton House in Llandeilo where you can hunt high and low as you explore the house to see how many hidden Lego figures you can find and get creative with different drawing activities in the basement.
At Powis Castle and Garden on Thursday, February 15 you can join the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust in a whole host of creative activities. Create your own picture of a bird using natural materials such as sticks and leaves, make a bird feeder for your own garden, and don't miss the chance to take a closer look at some real birds' nests too. For full details visit the website here.
The Gruffalo's Child - Cardiff
At the New Theatre in Cardiff you can enjoy a performance of The Gruffalo's Child. Adapted from the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning picture book you will follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission.
The Gruffalo's Child is on at the New Theatre from Tuesday, February 13 to Thursday, February 15 and you can book your tickets here.Want less ads? Download WalesOnline’s Premium app on Apple or Android.
Mumbles Pier - Mumbles
Mumbles Pier is hosting a lot of different activities this half term. You can join in on the fun with It's a Tots Valentine's Disco with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the Lego Club, and Valentine's Princess Afternoon Tea. You can find out more here.
Folly Farm - Kilgetty
Folly Farm is opening up a brand new attraction for the February half term. Named Venoms Vs Poisons the new exhibit explores some of the world’s more exotic species and looks at the differences between poisonous and venomous animals and how these creatures are in fact, vital for our survival.
Guests can find out which creatures are the most toxic in the world, as well as see gila monsters, poison dart frogs, snakes, tarantulas, and scorpions, and discover how dangerous these animals actually are in the wild. Although the toxins from these creatures can indeed pack a punch, the zoo explores some of the myths surrounding their deadly reputation and how they can also be beneficial by helping to find treatments and cures for a number of different medical conditions.
Cardiff Science Festival - Cardiff
Cardiff Metropolitan University is running its free Cardiff Science Festival on Saturday, February 17. You can choose from several interactive sessions including taste receptor genomics and and DNA bracelets.
The event is running at the Llandaff campus from 10am to 5pm and you can book your free tickets here.
National Waterfront Museum - Swansea
There is also lots to enjoy at the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea during the February half term. Activities include the Year of the Dragon Celebration, a half term movie, and crafting events. You can find out more, here.
School of Magic, Gwrych Castle - Abergele
Former home of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Gwrych Castle is opening its doors for its School of Magic this half term. You can take part in mythical quests that will transport you to realms of fantasy, and be mentored by seasoned wizards in subjects such as Mystical Spells, Potion Masterclasses, and the exhilarating Flying School, with new and improved lessons.
There is also a fancy dress competition and the School of Magic will be running throughout half term. You can book your tickets here.
Chinese New Year - Pontio
The Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre at Bangor University is hosting some great events for the Chinese New Year. Taking place on Monday, February 12 from 10am to 6pm there are lots of activities to enjoy including Chinese calligraphy, a Chinese dance workshop, and Chinese knots and bracelets. You can find out more here.
Margam Park - Port Talbot
Margam Park is also putting on a host activities this half term. You can enjoy crafty fun days, dragon science, interactive storytelling, and robot day in the castle. You can find out more here.
Illuminated Reeds Symphony - Cardiff
Illuminated Reeds Symphony is a new enchanting interactive light experience in the heart of Cardiff. Nestled amid the redeveloped Canal Quarter, just off Queen Street, you can immerse yourself in a mesmerising light experience that transports you from the busy and bustling atmosphere of Cardiff city centre to a serene and illuminating space.
Created by a team of Welsh artists, this experience combines music and recordings of the Welsh countryside with dazzling LED lights that come to life when you jump, dance, or tap on the accessible interactive ground pads.
Amelia Trust Farm - Barry
There are also activities to enjoy at Amelia Trust Farm in Barry for February half term 2024. On Wednesday, February 14 you can head to Amelia Trust Farm for a day of animal appreciation.
During the day, a member of the Animal Care team will be in the Animal Centre to tell you more about the small animals, including rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, degus, and reptiles where you will also be able to give the animals a groom. Throughout the day there will be animal talks at the outdoor paddocks, giving you the chance to get to know the donkeys, pigs, goats, and more.
There is also Be A Farmer for the day running on Saturday, February 10, and Sunday, February 18, and an Alice In Wonderland-themed day on Saturday, February 17. You can book your tickets here.
