Children's Programme 2026
Bigger adventures for young readers at Marlborough LitFest
Our children’s programme is packed with bestselling authors, hands-on activities and plenty of free family fun.
Alongside inspiring ticketed events with favourite children’s authors, families can enjoy storytelling, theatre, music, crafts and the return of the ever-popular Once Upon a Trail, with book-themed clues hidden around Marlborough High Street from 18 September.
Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult at all LitFest events.
Once Upon A Trail - 18 Sept onwards
Shops and businesses on and around Marlborough High Street will have books in their windows for you to spot. Grab our Once Upon A Trail leaflet from The White Horse Bookshop, tick them off and earn a special stamp from the library or The Parade Cinema.
Sat 19 Sept - Tall Tales Theatre - FREE Pewsey Library (10am), Marlborough Library (1pm)
Tall Tales Theatre performs traditional tales with live music aimed at 3-6 year olds. Free but please book your place by calling Marlborough Library: 01672 512663 or Pewsey Library: 01672 562265
Thurs 24 Sept – Festival Launch with Marlborough St Mary’s
(am) Outside Marlborough Town Hall
Children from Marlborough St Mary’s Primary School launch the Festival with songs on the Town Hall steps.
Sat 26 Sept – Screening of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’
10am, The Parade Cinema. Tickets £5
Special LitFest screening of the movie adapation of Cressida Cowell’s bestselling book.
Sat 26 Sept – Sue Hendra
10am, The White Horse Bookshop. Tickets £6.50
Join Sue Hendra to celebrate the nation’s favourite supermarket superhero, Supertato! This event promises giggles galore in a veggie-venture for the whole family. Everyone gets to make their own veggie superhero to take home! Recommended for ages 4-7.
Sat 26 Sept – Chloe Dalton
4pm, The Town Hall. Tickets £6.50
Author Chloe Dalton returns to LitFest to introduce the children’s edition of her international bestselling book, Raising Hare. This beautifully illustrated edition will share fascinating facts about hares to inspire curious minds of all ages. Recommended for ages 8-12.
Sat 26 Sept - Story Craft Activities - FREE 1pm-4pm drop-in sessions, The Parade Cinema
The Aldbourne Children's Book Group provide craft and art activities for all ages to provide some creative fun. Recommended for ages 5+. No tickets required.
Sat 26 Sept - Storytelling - FREE3.00pm, The Parade Cinema
Drop into The Parade courtyard, relax and enjoy some fun with our storytelling session. Recommended for ages 3 to 8. No tickets required.
Sun 27 Sept - Tall Tales Theatre - FREE 10am, The White Horse Bookshop.
Lizzie Lewis of Tall Tales Theatre performs a family theatre event. This is recommended for children aged 3+. No tickets required.
Sun 27 Sept - Kev F Sutherland11.30am and 1pm, The White Horse Bookshop. Tickets £6.50
Love comics? Kev F will be bringing his comic writing, performing and artistry to LitFest in a hands-on workshop - perfect for any aspiring artists or storytellers. You'll come away having created your very own comic strip! Recommended for ages 7+