The Great Malvern Festival of Stories for Children is all set to return following the huge success of last year’s first ever festival.

Taking place from 24 October to 29 October 2023, the six day festival has been given the green light to return across a number of venues throughout Great Malvern, with an extra two days added for local schools.

The first festival took place in October 2022 with 40 events, over 20 artists performing, 1000 tickets sold and over 600 school pupils attending on the school days.

Formed by Malvern Hills District Council in partnership with Boffy Arts Events People the festival is a celebration of stories, with professional storytellers, children’s authors, illustrators, puppet companies, musicians, and theatre.

The first four days of this year’s programme will be aimed at local schools, followed by a family programme on Saturday and Sunday which also includes both ticketed and free events, open to everyone.

Cllr Daniel Walton, Portfolio Holder for Tourism and Economic Development at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “We are so pleased this event will be making a return thanks to last year’s success. It is a great opportunity for children to be inspired, learn, and demonstrate creativity. It is also good for local businesses with an increase in footfall. We would encourage all families to take part and enjoy what the festival has to offer.”

Steve Boffy, from Boffy Arts Events People, said: “I was delighted with the success of last year’s festival and the brilliant response it received. I am now looking forward to building on that success and hope to develop the festival and see it become a much-loved annual fixture in the local cultural calendar”