Looking for a memorable family day out this summer?

From magical musicals and interactive children’s theatre to open-air cinema, there’s plenty happening across Leicester and the surrounding area to keep little ones entertained throughout the school holidays.

Whether your child dreams of joining Dog Man on an action-packed adventure, stepping into the world of Tales from Acorn Wood, or singing along to Encanto beneath the open sky, we’ve rounded up some of the very best family-friendly performances and outdoor cinema experiences taking place this Summer.

Curve Theatre

Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1SB Click here to find out more

Dog Man: The Musical – 16–19 July

Bounding onto the stage this summer, bringing Dav Pilkey’s much-loved bestselling books to life in a laugh-out-loud adventure for the whole family. Join George and Harold as they attempt to turn their favourite comic book hero into a musical! Expect plenty of silly humour, catchy songs and larger-than-life characters as Dog Man – the heroic half-dog, half-policeman – takes on a host of outrageous villains, including Petey the world’s most mischievous cat and Flippy the cyborg fish. Bursting with action, comedy and heart, this fun-filled production is perfect for fans of the books and anyone looking for an entertaining family day out during the summer holidays.
Age guidance: 5+ Running time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (including a 20 minute interval)

Tales From Acorn Wood – 21–25 July

Bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved storybooks to the stage in a magical adventure designed especially for younger children. Join Fox, Rabbit, Bear and all their woodland friends as favourite stories come to life through colourful puppetry, catchy songs and plenty of interactive fun. Little ones will love helping to solve mysteries, playing hide-and-seek and discovering the surprises waiting around every corner.
Best for: Toddlers & preschoolers (18 months+) Running time: 55 minutes (no interval)

Toto the Ninja Cat – 4–9 August

A brand-new family musical packed with adventure, laughter and larger-than-life characters. Based on the bestselling children’s book by Dermot O’Leary, the story follows Toto, a brave cat with incredible ninja skills who just happens to be almost completely blind. Alongside her mischievous brother, Silver, she embarks on an exciting mission through the streets of London after a dangerous King Cobra escapes. Featuring catchy original songs, impressive puppetry and plenty of laughs along the way, this action-packed show is perfect for children aged 5+ and a fantastic choice for a family theatre trip during the summer holidays.
Age guidance: 5+ Running time: 55 minutes (no interval)

Loughborough Town Hall

Market Place, Loughborough LE11 3EB Click here to find out more

K-Pop All Stars – 25 July

Calling all K-pop fans! K-Pop All Stars brings the energy, music and spectacular choreography of one of the world’s biggest pop phenomena to Loughborough Town Hall this summer. Featuring performances inspired by chart-topping artists including BlackPink, BTS, NewJeans and Katseye, this high-energy live show is packed with dazzling dance routines, incredible music and all the excitement of a K-pop concert. Whether your family are lifelong K-pop fans or simply love an unforgettable live performance, this vibrant tribute promises an evening full of music, colour and non-stop entertainment. Age guidance: Suitable for all

MMC Venue

105 Leicester Road, Mountsorrel LE12 7DB Click here to find out more

BATS presents The Little Mermaid – 15 – 19 September

Dive beneath the waves this September with The Little Mermaid, brought to the stage by Barrow Arts Theatre Society (BATS). Follow the adventurous young mermaid Ariel as she dreams of life on land and falls for Prince Eric. Determined to follow her heart, Ariel strikes a dangerous bargain with the mysterious sea witch Ursula, setting off a magical adventure filled with unforgettable characters, laughter and plenty of heart. Featuring much-loved songs including Part of Your World and Kiss the Girl, this enchanting musical is a fantastic family treat for Disney fans of all ages and a wonderful opportunity to support local theatre.

De Montfort Hall

Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU Click here to find out more

Fun For Little Ones – A Tribute to Ms Rachel – 26 September

Little ones will love this lively tribute to the much-loved Ms Rachel when Fun for Little Ones comes to De Montfort Hall. This interactive live show is packed with sing-alongs, dancing, colourful animations, puppets and plenty of opportunities for children to join in. Inspired by the hugely popular YouTube sensation, it’s a fun-filled experience designed to keep little audiences entertained from start to finish. Whether your child loves singing along at home or simply enjoys music, movement and interactive shows, this is a fantastic first theatre experience and a lovely family outing for younger children. Age guidance: Toddlers and preschoolers

Y Theatre

7 East Street, Leicester, LE1 6EY Click here to find out more

Nick Cope Family Show For 2026! – 26 September

An hour of music, laughter and sing-along fun for the whole family. Best known from the hit CBeebies series Nick Cope’s Popcast, Nick has become a favourite with young children thanks to his warm, witty songs and engaging live performances. Expect plenty of familiar tunes, colourful animations and lots of opportunities for little ones to join in.
Age guidance: 3+ Running time: 60 minutes

Outdoor experiences

Leicestershire Country Cricket Club

Grace Road, Leicester, LE2 8EB Find out more here

Encanto – 25th July

Enjoy a magical afternoon of outdoor cinema at Leicestershire County Cricket Ground with a screening of Disney’s much-loved film, Encanto.

Pack a picnic, grab your blankets or camping chairs and settle in for a family-friendly afternoon under the open sky. Follow Mirabel and the extraordinary Madrigal family as they discover that everyone’s unique gifts have an important part to play when the magic of the Encanto begins to fade.

Filled with unforgettable songs, colourful characters and heartwarming moments, Encanto is the perfect feel-good film for all ages. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or singing along to your favourite songs, it’s a wonderful way to spend a summer afternoon together.

Abbey Pumping Station

Corporation Road, Leicester LE4 5PX Click here to find out more

The Railway Children – 22 August

Enjoy a magical afternoon of open-air theatre this summer as Paperback Theatre returns to Abbey Pumping Station with a charming new adaptation of The Railway Children.

Set against the beautiful surroundings of one of Leicester’s most unique heritage attractions, this timeless family classic follows siblings Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis as they begin a new life in the countryside. As they discover the railway at the end of their garden, they embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with friendship, mystery, excitement and hope.

Following the company’s hugely popular production of The Wizard of Oz last summer, this promises to be another heartwarming evening of outdoor theatre that’s perfect for families. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket or camping chair, and enjoy this much-loved story under the summer sky.

We hope this guide has inspired your next family day out! If you visit any of these fantastic shows or outdoor cinema experiences, we’d love to hear what you thought. Don’t forget to tag Raring2go! Leicester in your photos on Facebook or Instagram – we love seeing local families making magical memories together. 💜