Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme

Bookings are now open for the Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme

Get ready for festive fun with 34 FREE activity clubs across the borough.

As Christmas approaches, so does the excitement for the return of the Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) funded by the Department for Education. Edsential have been working alongside Cheshire West and Chester Council to bring families together, with a whole host of festive activity clubs available that are designed to keep children and young people engaged and active this Christmas.

With a network of 34 clubs spread across the borough, the HAF programme is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for young people aged 5 to 16 years old in receipt of benefit related free school meals. This year, new clubs will be joining the programme, offering even more festive activities. From winter sports like ice skating and indoor football to holiday-themed arts and crafts, baking and cooking classes, nature bushcraft, campfires, and day trips all with a Christmas twist—this season promises something for every taste and interest. For older children, additional activities such as holiday wellness sessions, hair, and beauty workshops will be available. And the best part? Free, nutritious meals will be served throughout the programme, ensuring that children stay energised and nourished during the Christmas break.

The Summer HAF initiative saw over 4000 children and young people in Cheshire West and Chester benefitting from enriching activities and healthy meals provided. Those who took part were thrilled, with many parents praising the clubs’ ‘lovely staff’ and their ability to be ‘brilliant with kids.’ Parents were delighted that their children were entertained and well-fed during the holidays, and this Christmas is set to be even more special.

Cllr Adam Langan, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Cheshire West and Chester, said: “What a wonderful programme we have for this Christmas. So many children from all backgrounds, from all across the borough will get to enjoy a magical time. The activities for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) will have an amazing impact on children and families. I hope the children enjoy the pantos, food hampers and all of the activities the teams have planned.”

Heather Lewis, the Programme Manager for HAF, expressed her excitement, stating,

“We have an exciting lineup of holiday activities and food clubs this Christmas for children and young people across Cheshire West. Our mission is to create a safe, festive, and inclusive environment where they can have fun, learn new skills, and form lasting friendships. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an initiative that helps young people thrive.”

Edsential urges all parents and carers to check if their child is eligible for free school meals, as it could unlock a host of benefits. Eligible children not only gain access to the diverse programme of Christmas activities but also delicious and nutritious free lunches throughout the school term.

Ready for your child to dive into a Christmas of excitement? Book your child's spot at one of the Christmas holiday activity clubs or check eligibility at: www.edsential.com/HAF.