A new community nature festival will take place for the first time in Ringwood next month, with activities for all ages and a focus on local wildlife and the environment.
The New Forest Thrive event is set for Sunday 6 July at Carvers Recreation Ground, just outside the New Forest National Park.
Organised by the New Forest National Park Authority, the festival aims to connect people with nature and promote positive action around climate and the environment.
Interactive zones will offer a wide range of attractions, including wild play, theatre performances, art workshops, cycling activities and chances to explore the area’s wildlife. Visitors can also take part in a minibeast-building activity, enjoy quiet spaces to relax, and learn how to maintain and secure their bikes.
One highlight of the day will be a preview performance of “Bringing the Outside In” by Theatre for Life, created and led by young people.
Attendees are encouraged to use sustainable transport, with a competition running on the day for those who travel car-free. By sharing a photo of their journey, participants can enter to win a group ticket for the New Forest Tour.
The event is part of the Youth for Climate and Nature (YouCAN) scheme, which supports young people aged 11 to 30 to take action on climate and nature emergencies. Funding has come from the Climate Action Fund through The National Lottery Community Fund.
Brice Stratford, Chair of the YouCAN partnership board, said the event will “empower people to join in with tackling climate and nature emergencies on the ground”.
Ringwood Town Councillor Mary Deboos said the event brings “a little piece of the Forest to the community” and supports the town’s plans for Carvers to be a greener space.
More information about the event and its activities can be found at http://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/thrive.