Goodbye, January blues. February's half-term fun is about to begin!
With Valentine's Day arriving just ahead of half-term, there's no better time to celebrate the week than by sharing some love for everything that makes Southend special, including this brilliant mix of week‑long activities to keep your whole family entertained, active, and inspired.
Cllr Matt Dent, cabinet member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, said: "Half‑term is always a brilliant reminder of how much Southend has to offer. Whether you're exploring our parks, getting creative, or discovering something new together, there's so much here for families to enjoy. As a council, we're proud to support a wide range of activities and services that help families make the most of our fantastic city. I hope everyone has a wonderful week making memories across Southend."
Share the love this half‑term by supporting local and making the most of everything our vibrant city has to offer.
1. Youth Fest 2026 – Southend Council (FREE EVENT)
Kick off half-term a couple of days early with an energy boost at Youth Fest.
On Saturday, 14 February, local services, fun activities and uplifting experiences come together to support young people's mental health and wellbeing.
Here's what you can look forward to:
- meet local providers offering support for mental health, well-being, and family life
- enjoy interactive sessions, creative workshops, and live performances that celebrate youth voices
- discover practical tools and advice to help children thrive emotionally and socially
Learn more about the free event (marking Children's Mental Health Week) on the Livewell Southend website.
2. Southend Libraries (FREE EVENTS)
Whether you're nurturing a budding artist, supporting a curious teen or simply fancy learning something new together, this year's Festival of Learning line-up (book through the hyperlink) includes everything from the advertising graphics of John Hassall to hands-on paper mosaics and creative writing workshops.
If you'd like to learn about the Chinese New Year – in 2026 it's the Year of the Horse, The Forum Library is welcoming in the new year by getting children to make a beautiful, colourful Rocking Horse on Saturday, 21st February, from 1pm to 3pm.
Why not try other fantastical activities, including building a ‘Three Little Pigs’ model house at Shoeburyness Library, painting Warhammer models at The Forum, making crocodiles at Southchurch Library and diving into Red Riding Hood-themed crafts at Kent Elms. Plus, teens can join a writing workshop at Leigh Library and much more! Find the full month’s schedule in the February “What’s On” leaflet, available in all Southend Libraries.
You can also go on a magical quest until 7 March with FairyTrail-on-Sea, where little adventurers can collect stickers at each destination to fill and complete their special trail map (costs only £1). Alternatively, you can complete the exciting trail online and still collect your stickers from any Southend Library.
Oh, and don’t forget the Winter Mini Challenge, which marks the National Year of Reading 2026 and encourages young bookworms to keep turning pages throughout the colder months. Go ahead and take part in this superb challenge.
3. Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF) – Southend Council (ELIGIBLE FAMILIES)
Let's "HAF" some fun, shall we?
Pupils (aged 5 to 16) in receipt of Benefits Related Free School Meals can enjoy the special Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Programme from Monday, 16th February to Thursday, 19th February. From sports and swimming to creative sessions and outdoor adventures, each HAF session includes a free nutritious hot meal.
Eligible families can book up to 4 days of exciting activities. Browse and book your sessions on the Eequ website.
4. Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre (TICKETED EVENTS)
If your curious young naturalists ever wonder what owls eat, get them to dissect and examine real owl pellets at the hands-on Owl Pellet Workshop on Wednesday, 18 February. What a hoot!
For children aged 18 months to 5 years old, sign them up to the Belfairs Nature Tots Winter Special on Thursday, 19 February, where they can enjoy sensory games, woodland crafts, swinging, climbing, digging, and much more – a soothing contrast to busier indoor activities.
Meanwhile on Friday, 20 February, the Wilder Holiday Club 5+ is for ages 5 to 11, led by expert outdoor educators who guide children through themed activities from fire lighting and den-building to natural crafts, tool use, pond dipping and even animal tracking. There’s also time for free play, giving children plenty of opportunity to enjoy hands-on discovery in the fresh air.
5. Beecroft Art Gallery/Southend Museums (FREE & TICKETED EVENTS)
On Sunday, 15 Feb, travel to the deepest corners of the universe at Spacetime Sundays, where you can enjoy a (free) cosmic conversation led by Southend Museums’ very own local astrophysicist, Robert Clemenson. Expect a space‑themed “book‑club‑meets‑science‑chat” for kids aged 11+, with snacks included.
Time-travel to Wednesday and grab some popcorn because you’re invited to a special screening of DreamWorks' much-loved classic How to Train Your Dragon (2010), as part of Beecroft Art Gallery’s first Kids’ Flicks Movie Screening. The advert-free movie starts promptly at 11am, with refreshments available on site (ticketed).
After the credits roll, why not explore Alan Sorrell’s ‘Nubia’ Exhibition (free). This is the first time in over 25 years that Sorrell’s rare Nubian pieces have been brought together for public display, where he captured monumental sites in southern Egypt and northern Sudan.
6. Walks and Trails – Visit Southend (FREE EVENT)
When in doubt, go for a walk!
From Leigh to Shoeburyness, enjoy a peaceful woodland wander, a brisk coastal stride or a step back through local history on short and long-distance routes designed for all levels of walkers.
Whether you're clocking up steps or collecting seaside snapshots, these trails make a brilliant, budget-friendly half-term adventure. Explore the different routes and trails on the Visit Southend website.
7. Art Exhibitions and Events – Focal Point Gallery (FREE EVENT)
If your family loves creativity, colour and contemporary culture, Focal Point Gallery has a vibrant programme throughout Feb. Expect an inspiring mix of:
- thought‑provoking exhibitions featuring local, national and international contemporary artists
- free family-friendly workshops that encourage children to get stuck into creative play
- artist-led activities perfect for teens exploring photography, mixed media or digital art
- community projects and drop‑in events that bring people together through creativity
Explore more of what's on offer on the Focal Point Gallery website.
8. Southend Mega Fun Day (TICKETED EVENT)
Fun, fun and more fun is on the agenda on Thursday, 19 February!
Packed with giant inflatables, obstacle courses, soft play and high-energy activities designed to burn off every last bit of February half-term wiggle, your kids will have the time of their lives while you sit back and relax.
With sessions designed for different age groups, it’s a brilliant option for families with children who love to bounce, climb and explore. Learn more and book your ticket on the Mega Fun website.
9. Community Dinner with the Hindu Association – The Ironworks (TICKETED EVENT)
Warm food, warm people and a warm welcome is what you can expect at this lovely, vibrant community dinner on Friday, 20 February.
Hosted at The Ironworks by the Hindu Association, the evening offers a friendly, inclusive atmosphere perfect for meeting neighbours, trying new dishes and celebrating a different culture. Learn more and book your ticket on the Ticket Source website.
10. Lunchtime Concerts at the Civic Centre (FREE EVENT)
Give your Wednesday afternoon (18 February) a musical and cultural boost with a beautifully curated concert at the Civic Centre, as part of their free lunchtime concert series.
You'll be listening to the soothing tunes of harpist Louise O'Connor, offering a moment of calm amid the half-term rush. O'Connor is a Southend-based musician and teacher who plays in county-wide orchestras and gives concerts across Essex.
Explore all the upcoming concerts on the Southend-on-Sea City Council website.
11. Leigh Community Centre (FREE & TICKETED EVENTS)
Why not kick off your school-free adventures with a browse around at the Artisan Craft Fair on Saturday, 14 February! The cosy, charming hall will be filled with handmade treasures, unique gifts, artwork, jewellery and locally crafted treats – a great chance for children to meet makers and see craftsmanship up close.
Later on Tuesday, 17 February, little hands and big imaginations will unite at the relaxed Arts and Crafts Fun session, for just £2 per child. Perfect for children of all ages who love sticking, painting, colouring and creating, this friendly workshop offers a mix of guided activities and free craft time using provided materials.
12. Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre Southend (TICKETED EVENTS)
There's no business like show business!
This February and beyond, whether you fancy a dazzling performance at the Cliffs with its iconic estuary views, or something cosy and characterful at the Palace, both venues offer the perfect escape from the winter chill.
Browse all the listings and book your ticket on the Trafalgar Tickets website.
We'd love to hear which activities stole your heart this half-term. Your shared moments help inspire even more families to get out and explore Southend.
Write to us on social media or on media@southend.gov.uk.