DadFest 2026, held at South Cliff Holiday Park in Bridlington, was once again regarded as huge success by everyone who attended.
Taking place between Friday, 15 and Sunday, 17 May, the event brought together dads, father figures, and their children for a weekend of unforgettable outdoor fun, bonding, and adventure.
Organised by The Dads Network CIC in partnership with East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the unique festival was awarded ‘Best Small Event in the UK’ by the National Outdoor Events Association in 2025.
The event, which featured a packed programme of activities including archery, high ropes, storytelling, beach games and much more, delivered on its promise of safe, inclusive, and nature-filled family fun.
Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, added: “DadFest continues to be a fantastic event for families, offering a unique opportunity for dads and father figures to spend meaningful, quality time with their children. It’s wonderful to see so many people enjoying the outdoors, building confidence, and creating lasting memories together.’’
This year, to make camping more accessible Rewilding Youth provided free access to ‘camping kits’ consisting of a two-person tent, two sleeping mats, two sleeping bags and two camping chairs. They also hosted a huge variety of forest school activities across the three-day event.
Colin Phillips, lead youth environment educator with Rewilding Youth, said: ‘’It was a true pleasure to run DadFest Yorkshire 2026. The time in the woods, around the fire, singing and the time spent on the beach really did embody what rewilding youth aims to achieve. Seeing everyone have a brilliant time away from screens and be part of such a beautiful, unique and enjoyable experience is a true blessing.’’
A highlight of the weekend was the National Dad Dancing Championship as dads competed for the coveted title. This year’s Yorkshire winner was James Davies from Leeds. He will now go on to represent the region at the World Dad Dancing Championships in Devon this September.
James, who attended with his son Rowan, added: “It’s been a wonderful weekend. It has been great getting my son to engage with the wild, whittling and fire starting. Playing on the beach was a delight. Very entertaining magician and probably the best dad dance competition ever held. I’m sure the weekend has formed memories we will treasure for a lifetime.”
