Picnic in the Park 2024
This event, which has become a much-anticipated annual affair, exceeded expectations this year with numbers attending reaching over 800, with an array of activities that brought people together for a day of fun, laughter, and most importantly, charity.
The decision to move the Pods Picnic in the Park Charity Fun Day to a new location, to Charlton School was met with excitement and curiosity, More spacious grounds were needed to meet our growing number of attendees, and the school grounds provided the perfect backdrop for a day filled with outdoor festivities. Attendees were greeted with lush greenery, inviting picnic spots, and a sense of community that set the tone for the day’s events.
Pods Picnic in the Park Fun Day is not just about raising funds for a noble cause but also fostering a sense of community bonding. Families, friends, and neighbours came together to enjoy the festivities and share moments of joy. The event became a melting pot of diverse backgrounds ages and abilities creating an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie.
We left no stone unturned in ensuring there was something for everyone. From traditional face painting, slime making, bouncy castles, dancing, an immersive interactive Dome, Exotic pets, go-carts, football, a visit from the fire brigade, and much more, the event catered to a wide range of interests for all age groups. Charlton School’s facilities allowed a safe and accessible environment for these activities.
No picnic is complete without delicious food, and the Pods Picnic in the Park did not disappoint. With on-site catering of picnic boxes, tea/coffee, and cake.
The event was an overwhelming success, capturing the essence of community, charity, and celebration. with huge thanks to our amazing volunteers and staff.
Rhyl
We had an amazing Beach trip to Rhyl! Two coaches were arranged for our families, and everyone was provided with goodie bags to keep them occupied during the coach journey. The coaches also held a fun raffle, which everyone enjoyed. Although it was a bit windy, it didn’t stop our families from having a great time on the beach. The kids built sandcastles, dug holes, buried their feet in the sand, and collected seashells. The arcades and funfair were also a huge hit, and everyone had a great time. On the way back, the coaches were a lot quieter with lots of snoozing and worn-out children, parents and carers. We made so many fun family memories that we’ll cherish forever!
Halloween
In October we had a spooktacular pumpkin carving session, in which many families participated and enjoyed creating some amazing carved pumpkins and crafting decoration, it was lovely to see families enjoying a fun time together.
Keep an eye out for more details, including dates and booking links, which will be released throughout the year. Don’t miss out on the fun!
Christmas
Families had a great time at our annual Christmas card competition, which was back by popular demand! Participants could join us at one of our craft sessions or create their masterpiece from home and send it in. The competition was a huge success and we loved seeing all the amazing designs submitted!
Last year, we held three different Santa experiences, which were a hit among our visitors. There was a Christmas Party, a Christmas Tea Party, and a Silent Santa, each with its unique features. Unfortunately, we’re thrilled to say that due to their success, we’ll be holding similar experiences again this year!
Visitors were treated to an afternoon of dancing at our disco with the Grinch, with a visit to Santa and a present for each child/young adult at the Christmas Party. The Christmas Tea Party was quieter, with low background music, and the opportunity to meet Santa himself, with a present for each child/young adult. And finally, Silent Santa provided an opportunity to have a 1-1 with Santa and his elves in his grotto, with no music, and a present for each child/young adult.
Queens Platinum Jubilee
We were very excited to celebrate our Beautiful Late Queens Platinum Jubilee, 70 years on the throne! on Thursday 2nd June 2022 at ‘The Engine shop building’ at Ironbridge.
We celebrated with a traditional sit-down English Afternoon Tea, served at Union-themed decorated tables, we had a king, queen, prince, and princess theme for those that wanted to take part in this ( we will have family events on the build-up to this special event for children to make a crown for the day ), there was entertainment and a craft table for the children and gentle background music and live singing from the very talented Lisa ‘Simply Vintage’. Families had access to the Enginuity Museum throughout the event.