Hive Family Festival 2026 returns to YMCA Fairthorne Manor, Curdridge, near Southampton, on Saturday 8 August 2026, bringing a full day of live music, family entertainment, tribute acts, interactive activities, street theatre and delicious street food to one of Hampshire’s most picturesque outdoor venues. Designed with families in mind, the festival offers something for every generation, from toddlers meeting their favourite characters to adults singing along with headline performances.
Formerly known as The Big Sing Family Festival, the newly rebranded Hive Family Festival is bigger than ever for 2026. Visitors can enjoy two live music stages, a dedicated Family Fun Area, roaming entertainment, circus workshops, arts and crafts, a bustling marketplace and a fantastic selection of food and drink, all set within the beautiful grounds of Fairthorne Manor.
This complete visitor guide covers everything you need to know before you go, including the full line-up, family activities, ticket information, parking, transport, accessibility, food and drink, opening times and our own local tips to help you make the most of your day at one of the South Coast’s best family festivals.
What Is Hive Family Festival?
Hive Family Festival is one of Hampshire’s newest and fastest-growing family festivals, bringing together live music, children’s entertainment, interactive activities and great food for a full day of outdoor fun. Held at YMCA Fairthorne Manor in Curdridge, just outside Southampton, the festival is designed to give families an affordable and memorable summer experience in a safe and welcoming environment.
Previously known as The Big Sing Family Festival, the event has been rebranded as Hive Family Festival for 2026 with a bigger programme, two live stages and even more activities for children and adults to enjoy together. Throughout the day, visitors can watch live performances, meet favourite characters, take part in circus workshops, enjoy roaming street theatre, browse the marketplace and relax with a wide variety of food and drink.
Unlike many music festivals that cater primarily to adults, Hive Family Festival has been built around family entertainment. While children enjoy the dedicated Family Fun Area, parents can relax with live music, tribute acts and food vendors, making it an event where every member of the family has something to look forward to.
Is Hive Family Festival Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Hive Family Festival offers far more than a typical family day out. With two entertainment stages, headline tribute acts, interactive workshops, character meet and greets, circus performers and plenty of activities running throughout the day, there’s enough entertainment to keep families busy from lunchtime until the evening finale.
Whether you’re bringing toddlers, young children, teenagers or even grandparents, the festival offers an excellent mix of live music and family attractions in one location. Combined with its beautiful countryside setting and friendly atmosphere, it’s quickly becoming one of the South Coast’s standout summer festivals.
- Enjoy a full day of live entertainment across two stages.
- Watch headline tribute acts including ABBA Fever.
- Meet popular children’s characters including Bluey and Paddington.
- Take part in circus workshops, arts and crafts and interactive activities.
- Experience roaming street theatre and live performances throughout the festival.
- Browse independent market stalls and local traders.
- Enjoy a fantastic selection of street food and refreshments.
- Spend quality time together in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Hello Southampton Tip
Plan to stay for the entire day if you can. Many of the biggest performances, including the headline acts on the Beehive Stage, take place during the late afternoon and evening, while younger children can enjoy the Family Fun Area earlier in the day.
Who Is Hive Family Festival For?
As its name suggests, Hive Family Festival has been created with families at its heart, but its appeal goes far beyond parents with young children. Thanks to its varied entertainment programme, live music, workshops and relaxed countryside setting, the festival attracts visitors of all ages looking for a fun summer day out.
Whether you’re visiting to watch the headline acts, keep the children entertained during the school holidays or simply enjoy good food and live music in a beautiful outdoor venue, Hive Family Festival offers something for everyone.
Families
Perfect for parents looking for a full day of entertainment with activities suitable for toddlers, children and teenagers.
Music Lovers
Enjoy live performances throughout the day, including tribute acts, local artists and the headline performance from ABBA Fever.
Young Children
Meet favourite characters, enjoy bubble shows, circus workshops, arts and crafts, interactive activities and the dedicated Family Fun Area.
Food Lovers
Sample street food, sweet treats and refreshments while relaxing between performances in the festival grounds.
Groups of Friends
Spend the afternoon enjoying live music, entertainment, drinks and the relaxed atmosphere before the evening headline acts.
Visitors to Southampton
Discover one of Hampshire’s biggest family festivals while exploring the wider Southampton area during the summer holidays.
What’s On at Hive Family Festival?
Hive Family Festival packs an incredible amount of entertainment into a single day. With two live stages, a dedicated Family Fun Area, roaming performers, workshops and interactive experiences taking place across the site, there’s always something happening from the moment the gates open until the headline performance.
- Beehive Stage featuring live bands, tribute acts and headline performances throughout the day.
- Honeypot Stage showcasing local performers, choirs, dance sessions and community entertainment.
- Family Fun Area with meet and greets, bubble performances, arts and crafts and children’s activities.
- Circus Workshops where children can learn new skills with professional performers.
- Roaming Street Theatre including stilt walkers, circus performers and live entertainment around the festival site.
- Marketplace featuring local businesses, independent traders and unique gifts.
- Street Food & Licensed Bar serving a wide variety of food and refreshments throughout the day.
- Beautiful Outdoor Setting within the grounds of YMCA Fairthorne Manor.
Hello Southampton Tip
Don’t plan your day around just one stage. The Beehive Stage, Honeypot Stage and Family Fun Area all run activities throughout the day, so you’ll get far more from your visit by exploring the entire festival rather than staying in one place.
Hive Family Festival Line-up
One of the biggest attractions at Hive Family Festival is its packed entertainment programme. Across two live stages, the Family Fun Area and roaming performers, there’s something happening almost every hour. Whether you’re coming for the live music, tribute acts, children’s entertainment or interactive workshops, you’ll have plenty to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day.
The festival’s entertainment is spread across four main areas: the Beehive Stage, Honeypot Stage, Family Fun Area and a programme of Roaming Street Theatre, allowing visitors to explore the site while never being far from the action.
Beehive Stage (Main Stage)
The Beehive Stage hosts the festival’s biggest performances, featuring talented local artists, tribute acts and the evening headline show. Live music runs throughout the afternoon before building towards a fantastic finale with ABBA Fever, making this the place to be as the sun begins to set.
| Time | Performance |
|---|---|
| All Day | DJ Stop+Start |
| 1:00 PM | BEX |
| 2:00 PM | Love Soul Choir |
| 3:00 PM | Joshua Blake |
| 4:00 PM | Nikki Bentley |
| 4:45 PM | Sabrina Carpenter Tribute |
| 5:30 PM | Olivia Rodrigo Tribute |
| 6:30 PM | Got To Be Pop! |
| 8:00 PM | ABBA Fever (Headliner) |
Hello Southampton Local Tip
If you’re planning to watch ABBA Fever, head to the Beehive Stage at least 20–30 minutes before the performance starts. As the headline act, it’s expected to attract the festival’s biggest crowd.
Honeypot Stage
The Honeypot Stage offers a more relaxed programme celebrating local talent, community groups and interactive performances. Throughout the afternoon you’ll find choirs, live singers, dance sessions and even family yoga, making it an excellent place to take a break between the bigger performances on the main stage.
| Time | Performance |
|---|---|
| 12:30 PM | Netley Ukulele Group |
| 1:30 PM | Southampton Salty Sea Dogs |
| 2:30 PM | Take Part: Line Dancing |
| 3:15 PM | Take Part: Dance Party |
| 4:00 PM | Bella Cameron |
| 4:30 PM | Issy Somers |
| 5:30 PM | The Cold Heart Revue |
| 6:30 PM | Sunset Family Yoga |
Family Fun Area
The Family Fun Area is where younger visitors will want to spend much of their day. Packed with interactive activities, character appearances, workshops and live entertainment, it’s been designed to keep children engaged from the moment the festival opens until late afternoon.
Rather than simply offering a few children’s attractions, Hive Family Festival has created a dedicated area where families can enjoy hands-on activities together. From meeting favourite characters and watching bubble performances to trying circus skills and taking part in creative workshops, there’s something happening throughout the day.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| All Day | Crazy M Interactive Entertainment |
| All Day | Make & Create Arts & Crafts |
| 1:00 PM | Bubble Performance |
| 1:45 PM | Princess Meet & Greet |
| 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Circus Workshop |
| 2:45 PM | Princess Meet & Greet |
| 3:00 PM | Pooja’s Indian Dance Performance |
| 3:15 PM | Pooja’s Indian Dance Workshop |
| 3:30 PM | Bluey Meet & Greet |
| 3:30 PM | Bubble Performance |
| 4:30 PM | Paddington Meet & Greet |
Hello Southampton Local Tip
The Bluey, Paddington and Princess meet and greets are likely to be some of the busiest attractions. Arrive a little early if your children are excited to meet their favourite characters.
Roaming Entertainment
Entertainment at Hive Family Festival isn’t limited to the stages. Throughout the day, colourful performers roam the festival grounds, creating surprise moments and keeping the atmosphere lively wherever you are. You’ll regularly come across stilt walkers, circus artists and interactive performers as you explore Fairthorne Manor.
These roaming acts help make the festival feel immersive, ensuring there’s always something to discover between stage performances and activities.
| Time | Entertainment |
|---|---|
| 1:00 PM | Stilt Walkers |
| 1:30 PM | Circus Performers |
| 2:00 PM | Giant Bubble Performance |
| 2:30 PM | Circus Performers |
| 3:15 PM | Circus Performers |
| 5:00 PM | Swan Samba |
What Makes Hive Family Festival Special?
While Hampshire hosts plenty of summer festivals, Hive Family Festival stands out because it has been designed specifically for families rather than simply adding children’s entertainment to a traditional music festival. Every part of the event has something for both adults and children, allowing families to spend an entire day together without anyone feeling left out.
It’s this balance of live music, interactive experiences, character meet and greets, workshops, street theatre and relaxed countryside surroundings that makes Hive Family Festival one of the region’s most enjoyable summer events. Parents can enjoy quality live entertainment while children stay engaged with activities running throughout the day.
The beautiful setting at YMCA Fairthorne Manor also gives the festival a more spacious and relaxed feel than many town-centre events, making it easy to move between stages, activity zones and food vendors while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Hello Southampton Tip
Don’t spend the entire day watching the stages. Some of the festival’s best moments happen away from the music, whether that’s meeting roaming performers, joining a circus workshop or watching your children enjoy the Family Fun Area.
Food & Drink
No family festival is complete without great food, and Hive Family Festival delivers with a fantastic selection of street food, sweet treats and refreshments available throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack between performances or a proper meal before the evening headline act, you’ll find plenty of options around the festival site.
A variety of independent food traders and local vendors will be serving freshly prepared meals, desserts, hot drinks and cold beverages, while the licensed bar offers drinks for adults wanting to relax and enjoy the live music.
As menus can vary each year, it’s worth taking a walk around the food village before deciding what to eat, as different vendors often specialise in different cuisines and homemade treats.
- Freshly prepared street food.
- Burgers, loaded fries and festival favourites.
- Vegetarian and vegan options.
- Sweet treats including ice cream and desserts.
- Tea, coffee and soft drinks.
- Licensed bar for alcoholic beverages.
Hello Southampton Local Tip
Food queues are usually shortest during the early afternoon. If you’re planning to watch the evening performances, consider eating before 6:00 PM so you don’t miss the headline entertainment.
Family Guide
Hive Family Festival has been designed with families in mind, making it one of the easiest festivals in Hampshire to attend with children. From babies and toddlers to teenagers, every age group has dedicated entertainment throughout the day.
The spacious grounds at YMCA Fairthorne Manor provide plenty of room for children to explore, while parents can easily move between the Family Fun Area, live stages and food vendors without covering long distances.
Good to Know for Families
- Suitable for babies, toddlers, children and teenagers.
- Pushchairs and prams can be brought onto the festival site.
- Bring sunscreen, hats and refillable water bottles on warm days.
- Pack a picnic blanket if you want to relax between performances.
- Comfortable footwear is recommended as most of the event takes place on grass.
- Arrive early to enjoy the Family Fun Area before it becomes busier later in the afternoon.
Accessibility
Hive Family Festival aims to create an inclusive event where everyone can enjoy the day. The festival takes place across the grounds of YMCA Fairthorne Manor, with most attractions located outdoors on grass and open parkland.
Visitors with additional accessibility requirements are encouraged to review the latest event information before travelling, particularly if they require accessible parking or step-free access.
- Accessible toilet facilities available on site.
- Dedicated accessible parking (subject to availability).
- Most attractions are located on relatively open, level grassed areas.
- Assistance dogs are welcome.
- Accessible viewing may be available for selected performances.
Hello Southampton Tip
If anyone in your group has mobility needs, arrive a little earlier than planned. This gives you more time to park, enter the site and choose a comfortable viewing spot before the busiest part of the day.
Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Hive Family Festival 2026 are now on sale and are expected to sell out before the festival gates open. Your ticket includes access to all live performances across both stages, the Family Fun Area, circus workshops, character meet and greets, roaming entertainment, the marketplace, street food village and all of the activities taking place throughout the day.
Early Bird tickets have already sold out, with Release 1 tickets now available. If you’re planning to attend, it’s worth booking sooner rather than later as each ticket release is limited, with prices increasing as the festival approaches.
Families and larger groups can save money by purchasing a Group Ticket, which offers the lowest price per person for groups of four or more. Children aged 0–3 can attend free of charge but still require a ticket when booking.
Hive Family Festival 2026 Ticket Prices
| Ticket Type | Price* | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Early Bird Adult (16+) | Sold Out | ❌ Sold Out |
| Early Bird Child (4–15) | Sold Out | ❌ Sold Out |
| Early Bird Group (4 People) | Sold Out | ❌ Sold Out |
| Release 1 Adult (16+) | £31.50 + booking fee | Available |
| Release 1 Child (4–15) | £24.50 + booking fee | Available |
| Release 1 Infant (0–3) | Free | Ticket Required |
| Release 1 Group (4 People) | £23.25 per person + booking fee | ⭐ Best Value |
| Release 2 Adult (16+) | £42.50 + booking fee | On Sale Later |
| Release 2 Child (4–15) | £36.50 + booking fee | On Sale Later |
| Final Release Adult (16+) | £52.50 + booking fee | Final Allocation |
| Final Release Child (4–15) | £46.50 + booking fee | Final Allocation |
*All ticket prices are subject to the ticket provider’s booking fee.
Car Parking
Parking is not included with your festival ticket. A car parking pass costs £10.00 plus booking fee and must be purchased in advance, subject to availability. Standard and accessible parking can both be booked through the festival’s ticketing page.
Accessibility & Companion Tickets
Visitors requiring additional support can submit an access application before the festival. Eligible guests may be able to apply for a companion ticket, and further accessibility information is available through the official booking website.
Hello Southampton Local Tip
If you’re attending as a family or group of four or more, the Group Ticket offers the best value. Also remember to book your parking pass at the same time as your tickets, as parking availability is limited and can sell out before the festival.
Opening Times
| Date | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Saturday 8 August 2026 | 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
Entertainment begins shortly after the gates open and continues throughout the afternoon before finishing with the evening headline performance from ABBA Fever. To make the most of everything on offer, plan to arrive close to opening time.
How to Get to Hive Family Festival
Hive Family Festival takes place at YMCA Fairthorne Manor, Curdridge, a countryside venue located around 20 minutes from Southampton city centre. The site is easily accessible by car and can also be reached using public transport followed by a short taxi journey.
By Car
Driving is the easiest way to reach the festival. Fairthorne Manor is located just off the A334 between Botley and Curdridge, with clearly signposted access routes on event day.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Botley, which has regular services from Southampton Central, Eastleigh and Portsmouth. From Botley Station, it’s a short taxi ride to the festival site.
By Bus
Local bus services operate between Southampton, Hedge End, Botley and nearby villages. Depending on your chosen service, you may need to complete the final part of your journey by taxi or on foot.
By Taxi
Taxis are widely available from Southampton city centre, Eastleigh and Botley, providing a convenient option for visitors who don’t wish to drive.
Parking
Parking is available at YMCA Fairthorne Manor, but visitors must purchase a parking pass in advance. Spaces are limited and are expected to sell out before the event, so don’t leave booking until the last minute if you plan to drive.
Festival parking is located close to the event entrance, making it convenient for families with young children, pushchairs and picnic equipment. Once parked, it’s only a short walk to the festival site.
If official parking reaches capacity, visitors may need to use alternative transport or arrange to be dropped off. Please avoid parking on nearby residential roads unless specifically permitted, as restrictions may be in place.
- Official on-site parking available.
- Advance parking pass required.
- Limited spaces available.
- Accessible parking available for eligible visitors.
- Arrive early for the smoothest entry.
Hello Southampton Local Tip
Aim to arrive between 11:15 AM and 11:45 AM. You’ll beat the busiest arrival period, have an easier time parking and can head straight to the Family Fun Area when the gates open.
Suggested Itinerary
If it’s your first visit to Hive Family Festival, here’s a simple itinerary to help you enjoy as much of the day as possible without rushing.
| Time | Suggested Plan |
|---|---|
| 11:15–11:45 AM | Arrive, park and make your way to the entrance before the crowds. |
| 12:00 PM | Explore the festival site and visit the Family Fun Area. |
| 1:00–3:00 PM | Enjoy character meet and greets, bubble shows and circus workshops. |
| 3:00–5:00 PM | Watch live performances across the Beehive and Honeypot stages. |
| 5:30 PM | Have dinner from the street food vendors before queues increase. |
| 6:30–9:00 PM | Enjoy the evening entertainment, finishing with ABBA Fever on the Beehive Stage. |
Things to Know Before You Go
- Purchase both your festival ticket and parking pass before the event.
- Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on grass.
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.
- Bring sunscreen, hats and refillable water bottles on hot days.
- Download your tickets to your phone before arriving.
- Carry a portable phone charger if you’re planning to stay all day.
- Allow plenty of time if you’re travelling from Southampton or Portsmouth.
- Keep younger children close during busy performances and character appearances.
- Explore all areas of the festival instead of staying at one stage.
- Stay for the evening finale to experience the headline performance from ABBA Fever.
Hello Southampton Tip
Hive Family Festival is much more than a music event. Some of the best memories come from the unexpected moments—meeting roaming performers, discovering new food stalls or watching your children enjoy activities they hadn’t planned to try. Leave time in your schedule to simply explore.
Our Verdict
Hive Family Festival has quickly become one of Hampshire’s best family-friendly summer festivals. Rather than simply offering live music with a few children’s activities, it delivers a full day of entertainment for every generation. From tribute acts and local musicians to circus workshops, character meet and greets, street performers and excellent food, there’s always something happening.
Set within the beautiful grounds of YMCA Fairthorne Manor, the festival offers a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for families looking to make lasting summer memories. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teenagers or grandparents, Hive Family Festival is one of the South Coast’s standout summer events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Hive Family Festival 2026?
Hive Family Festival 2026 takes place on Saturday 8 August 2026 from 12:00 PM until 9:00 PM.
Where is Hive Family Festival held?
The festival takes place at YMCA Fairthorne Manor, Curdridge, near Southampton.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Hive Family Festival is a ticketed event and advance booking is recommended.
Is parking available?
Yes. Official on-site parking is available with a pre-booked parking pass.
Is Hive Family Festival suitable for toddlers?
Yes. The festival includes activities, character meet and greets, bubble shows and workshops designed for young children.
Who is headlining Hive Family Festival?
ABBA Fever headlines the Beehive Stage at 8:00 PM.
Can I bring a pushchair?
Yes. Pushchairs and prams are welcome throughout the festival site.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes. Visitors can enjoy street food vendors, refreshments, desserts and a licensed bar.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, your tickets and a refillable water bottle.
Is Hive Family Festival worth visiting?
Yes. Hive Family Festival offers live music, family entertainment, workshops, food vendors and activities for all ages, making it one of Hampshire’s best family festivals.