Gloworm Festival has revealed the secret recipe behind a decade of family festival success, as it gears up to celebrate its 10th anniversary at Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire, from 7 to 9 August 2026.
Festival director Richard Walpole said the centrepiece of that recipe has never changed. “What started as just an idea over a decade ago has grown into something truly magical, bringing thousands of families together each year to make unforgettable memories,” he said. “We’re so proud of how far Gloworm has come and can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with everyone this summer.”
The Nottinghamshire family festival began life in 2016 as a 3,500-person event before growing steadily into one of the country’s most loved family weekends. Camping was introduced in 2017, and the festival moved to Thoresby Park in 2018 as demand continued to grow. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, organisers kept the Gloworm spirit alive with the virtual BookWorm festival, featuring readings from authors including Elmer creator David McKee. Organisers announced early bird tickets for the 10th edition back in August 2025, with the family camping weekend pass frozen at 2025 prices.
Over the years the festival has evolved through superhero, pirate, retro, space and underwater themes, with standout moments becoming part of its folklore. Mr Blobby’s unforgettable performance of Wonderwall in 2024, Stavros Flatley’s giant Greek dance routine with dads from the crowd in 2023, and Black Lace legend Dene Michael leading a Hokey Cokey conga line around the site in 2025 are among the moments families have taken home. The hugely popular Playmobil Rave with DJ Sparky has become one of the festival’s most iconic traditions, returning year after year.
For the 10th birthday celebrations, Gloworm promises to be bigger, bolder and better than ever. Brand new for 2026 is the Adventure Zone, featuring a Drop Tower, grass sledging, laser tag, trampolining, parkour and air track experiences. Returning favourites include free fairground rides until 5pm, CBeebies Bedtime Stories, PAW Patrol meet and greets, TV Party Tonight, Peaceful Possums Yoga and Gloworm’s Got Talent.
The Big Top returns hosted by Molly Kidz TV, with Q20 Events bringing performances including Peter Pan, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Pirate Pandemonium and Justin Credible and the Gems of Power. Music and live entertainment across the weekend includes S Club’s Jo O’Meara performing live exclusively for campers on Friday night alongside Kevin & Perry, K-Pop Hunters Party, The Vengaboyz Experience, Swift & Styles, Spiceworld The Tribute and Black Lace legend Dene Michael.
Previously announced acts also include SpongeBob SquarePants appearing at the festival for the first time, children’s favourite Nick Cope, Pat Sharp with the Fun House Twins, Twist & Pulse, Straight Out of Oz, Mama G, Nigel Clarke and Mythic Adventures. Birmingham Children’s Hospital has also been confirmed as the festival’s official charity partner for 2026, with three members of the Gloworm team taking on a sponsored skydive in July to kickstart fundraising.
Main stage host Jack Andrews, now in his ninth year at the festival, said: “It’s my favourite festival of the year. It’s great for families of all ages, plenty to do and lots of prizes! I always have so much fun, and I can’t WAIT to get back on that stage for the most fun three days.”
The award-winning White Post Farm returns for its 10th consecutive year, this time with a special visit from Southwell Young Farmers bringing machinery for families to explore. CBeebies series presenter Maddie Moate, who first attended Gloworm in 2021, is also returning. “There’s something truly magical about Gloworm, from the atmosphere to the amazing families and team behind it,” she said. “I can’t wait to be back this year and celebrate this incredible milestone together.”
With Park & Pitch running low and Glamping nearly sold out, campers will want to act quickly. Traditional camping pitches remain available, as do Saturday and Sunday day tickets. All entertainment and activities are included in the ticket price, with family passes, single parent tickets, VIP upgrades and glamping all on offer. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.glowormfestival.co.uk.
Image credits: Gloworm
In this article: Thoresby Hall, Nottinghamshire, David McKee, Mr Blobby, Stavros Flatley, Black Lace, Playmobil, Peter Pan, Jo O’Meara, S Club 7, SpongeBob SquarePants, Nick Cope, Pat Sharp, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Maddie Moate, CBeebies, Paw Patrol. Generated by Wikidata Schema Link Builder.
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