Looking for something to do with the children this half term that won’t cost a penny? Museum of Cardiff is putting on a week of free, family-friendly events for Welsh Museums Festival 2026, with a gently spooky, planet-friendly twist.
The festival runs from Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November and celebrates museums right across Wales. This year’s theme encourages visitors to enjoy Halloween in a sustainable way, so think recycled materials and homemade decorations rather than another bag of plastic bits destined for the bin.
Halloween and Hwyl
Start by picking up the free “Halloween and Hwyl” activity booklet, packed with puzzles and activities. Hwyl is one of those Welsh words that doesn’t translate neatly, somewhere between fun, spirit and good cheer, which feels about right for a half-term week.
Highlights of the week
Wall-E family screening, Monday 26 October
Disney/Pixar’s animated robot adventure is a fitting choice for a green-themed festival, given that its little hero spends his days tidying up a planet buried in rubbish.
Spooky craft drop-in, Wednesday 28 October
Children can drop in and make their own spooky decorations to take home.
Zine making with Flossy & Boo, Thursday 29 October
A chance to use recycled materials to delve into the world of zine making with Flossy & Boo. Zines are small, homemade magazines, and as publishers we can only approve of getting children started early.
“Another fantastic reason” to visit
Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Cllr Jennifer Burke, said: “The activities happening this half-term alongside interactive exhibitions exploring the stories that help make Cardiff the city we know and love today, make for another fantastic reason to pay the Museum of Cardiff a visit.”
Good to know
What
Free family events for Welsh Museums Festival 2026
Where
Museum of Cardiff, The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff
When
Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November 2026
Cost
Free. Most activities are drop-in, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
City Life Tip!
Session times weren’t included in the announcement, so check with the museum before you set off, especially for the Wall-E screening.
Main picture: David Menidrey on Unsplash.
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