Free Holiday Fun for Families in Ealing This Festive Season
Tue 09 Dec 2025
It offers free activities and nutritious meals for eligible children, and bookings are now open.
Running from Monday 22 December 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026, the Department for Education-funded scheme provides a wide range of sessions to keep children active, creative, and connected throughout the Christmas break.
Who Can Take Part?
The programme is free for children and young people who:
- Live in Ealing or attend a school in the borough
- Are in Reception to Year 11
- Receive benefits-related Free School Meals (FSM)
Families who are unsure about eligibility are encouraged to speak directly with their child’s school.
What’s on Offer?
This winter’s line-up includes activities for all interests and abilities, with many providers offering tailored options for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Sessions include:
- Circus skills and acrobatics
- Street and contemporary dance camps
- Festive arts and crafts
- Martial arts
- Team sports including football and basketball
- Trips to local attractions
Each session includes a healthy meal, helping families manage holiday pressures while giving children a safe, positive space to play and learn.
Why It Matters
Ealing Council says the programme plays an important role in supporting families during a time of rising household costs. Councillor Josh Blacker, cabinet member for a fairer start, said:
"This programme makes a real difference for families across the borough. It’s about more than the activities and a meal – it’s about inclusion, wellbeing and making sure every child has the chance to enjoy the festive season."
Across England, around 2.2 million children are eligible for Free School Meals — roughly 25.7% of all pupils — highlighting the ongoing need for accessible holiday support.
How to Book
Places are limited and expected to fill quickly. Families can find full details of venues, timetables and available activities — and reserve a space — through the HAF booking website.
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