Get your diaries ready as a number of free and low-cost activities will take place across North Somerset over the summer holidays.

From a Summer Reading Challenge in the libraries, to free arts and craft activities, and thrilling BMX stunts at Party on the Green, there is something to suit every taste and age group this holiday season.

The Summer Reading Challenge is now fully open and will run until September 14.

Aimed at promoting a love for reading among children while also honing their reading skills, this year's theme is 'Marvellous Makers'.

This free challenge is open to children between four and 11 years of age, with rewards offered for the books they read.

Several free activities that span across various creative arts are also part of the library's Summer Reading Challenge.

These include dance, drawing, music, and junk modelling.

The Reading Agency, working in partnership with public libraries and Create, a leading charity organisation, developed the challenge.

For those who prefer to let off some steam outdoors, Grove Park in Weston-super-Mare will host free arts and craft activities each Monday afternoon throughout the school summer holidays.

These sessions are being organised by the Friends of Grove Park and will run between 1pm and 3pm, starting from July 29.

For a bit of magic and laughter, North Somerset Play Forum has organised a free family fun day on August 1 in Clarence Park, Weston-super-Mare.

A mix of comedy, music, and magic will entertain families from 11am to 3pm.

Another August highlight is the Party on the Green scheduled for August 10 at Coniston Green, featuring daring BMX stunts, acrobatic shows and circus skills.

The family-friendly event will run from 1pm to 5pm.

Each Saturday will also see ParkPlay sessions take place in selected parks across North Somerset.

These free activities aim to build happier, healthier communities and offer a safe, welcoming space for all ages.

Cllr Catherine Gibbons, deputy leader of North Somerset Council and lead member for children’s services, said: "As well as the summer reading challenge and a host of local events taking place across North Somerset this summer, there are lots of creative ideas online to help you have a fun-filled summer without costing a penny.

"Some ideas include painting pebbles, making an obstacle course, picnics in the local park, go on a bug hunt or make a bug hotel, learning to bake, make a den, make hand puppets using those odd socks or make musical instruments using recycling or pans."

She continued: “North Somerset Council’s Holidays, Activities and Food (HAF) programme is also running to provide activities and food during the summer holidays for children who are receiving benefits-related free school meals.

"Information for parents and carers about this programme is available at https://n-somerset.gov.uk/my-services/benefits-support/other-benefits-support/holiday-activities-food-haf-programme.

“If food and money-saving is a concern during the summer holidays, Money Saving Central has also updated its list of places where children can eat for free or just £1 (https://moneysavingcentral.co.uk/kids-eat-free)."

Visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/col for local cost of living information and advice.