Thousands of people of all ages took part in a huge range of free activities and events in Newport city this summer.
Teams from Newport Council, partners and other organisations, including voluntary groups, were involved in providing activities.
The school summer holidays kicked off with Newport Live’s annual Big Splash in The Riverfront and surrounding areas.
The council’s youth, play, early years and disabled children’s teams put on sessions for children, young people and families in venue around the city during July and August.
This included National Play Day in Rodney Parade when Newport Bus offered free travel to those attending the event.
Libraries held free sessions for children and there was a Roman Day, arts and crafts and even a mobile planetarium – so popular the 90 places were fully booked within hours – in the museum and John Frost Square.
With support from the council, and UK Government funding, Newport Now business improvement district (BID) brought some new additions to the city centre including giant chairs, a picnic area near the riverfront and a monster trail.
The BID also had its annual urban beach in John Frost Square where children could play in the sand while their parents took advantage of the surrounding deckchairs.
An outdoor cinema, arranged by the council with UK Government funding, also proved to be a great hit. Free screenings of well-known films the former leisure centre site were so successful that an extra night featuring Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was put on.
“Summer was magical in Newport this year in more ways than one,” said council leader Dimitri Batrouni.
“There was so much going on including free music performances in the city centre organised by the grassroots venues in High Street and a Live Aid event in Rodney Parade.
“During the summer, we have also seen thousands of children enjoy the second year of Splash Port, the free water fun area in Tredegar Park. Extended hours and relaxed sessions for children with additional needs were very popular and we’re sure everyone is looking forward to it reopening next year.
“It was great to see so many people, from the very young to the not-so-young, having such a great time. A big thank you to everyone who helped to make this summer so special particularly those voluntary and community groups who so generously gave their own time to others.”
Councillor James Clarke, Cabinet member for regeneration and business growth, said:
“I was delighted that we were able to use some of our UK Government funding allocation to support so many fantastic events and attractions in the city centre this summer including the outdoor cinema and the additional attractions.”
The What’s On City of Newport website lists events, activities, shows, and classes from venues across the city. Visit the site to see the latest listings here.
