Looking for something exciting to do with the kids during the school holidays? Cornmill Shopping Centre in Darlington has you covered with Wacky Wednesdays—a series of free family events packed with fun, creativity, and hands-on activities.
Every Wednesday during the school holidays in 2025, families can drop in for themed events designed to entertain and engage.
What are Wacky Wednesdays?
Wacky Wednesdays is the name that brings together a whole year of fantastic events, giving parents an easy way to plan fun-filled days with the kids. From live animal encounters to arts and crafts, magic shows, and even dinosaur-themed activities, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, every event is completely free and takes place right in the heart of Darlington.
Wacky Wednesdays fun kicks off on Wednesday 16th March and runs throughout the year on the following dates:
- March 16 – Easter celebration with live petting zoo
- April 23 – Welcoming spring with themed arts and crafts
- May 28 – Helping Darlington celebrate Emergency Services day with crafts and activities focused on the police, fire, ambulance and other vital services
- July 23 – Darlington by The Sea themed arts and crafts
- July 30 – Celebrate all things Seaside holidays with arts and crafts sessions to get the kids ready for a summer by the sea
- August 6 – Experience magic and wonder with live magic performances and other activities
- August 13 – Create you own magic themed arts and crafts to take home and practice on your family!
- August 20 – Enter a world of fantasy, magic and fairy tales with the Legends and Fairytales themed arts, crafts and activities
- August 27 – Create ROOAAARsome Dinosaur themed arts and crafts as the Dinosaurs roam Darlington town centre
- October 29 – Get spooky with Halloween themed activities and crafts
What to Expect
Every Wacky Wednesday brings a new adventure! Get hands-on with arts and crafts led by Yvonne Preston, watch spellbinding live magic performances, or even meet real animals at our petting zoo experience. Whether your little ones love crafting, performing, or exploring, there’s a day tailored just for them.
No Booking Required – Just Drop In!
Wacky Wednesdays are completely free family events, and there’s no need to book in advance—just turn up and join in the fun. Whether you stay for a quick activity or make a day of it, it’s a fantastic way to keep the kids entertained while you visit Cornmill Shopping Centre.
Stay Updated
Full details of each event will be shared on our Facebook page and website, so be sure to follow us for the latest updates. Follow our Facebook page by clicking here.
Accessibility information can also be found on the Cornmill Shopping Centre website.
Make Wednesdays wacky, wonderful, and totally free family fun in Darlington—see you there!