Bolton's Holiday Activities and Food Programme
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Bolton's Holiday Activities and Food Programme

Bolton's Holiday Activities and Food Programme offers free, fun, and enriching experiences for eligible children and young people. Running for at least 4 hours a day, 4 days a week during school holidays, the program provides physical activities, arts, and a hot meal. It's a fantastic opportunity for kids to connect with friends and discover new interests in a safe and engaging environment.

What to Expect

Free holiday activities and hot meals for eligible children.

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Accessibility: https://www.bolton.gov.uk/policies-strategies-procedures/accessibilty?documentId=693&categoryId=20094
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Other Christmas Events Near Bolton

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families with children eligible for free school meals

Vibe

Community-focused, active, and supportive

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (2/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free physical and enriching activities
  • Hot meal provided
  • Sessions available for October half-term & Christmas

Tags

family friendlychildrens activitiesfree eventcommunity celebrationseasonal activitiesholiday traditionfestive foodlocal businesses

Featured Video

Location

Various Locations Across Bolton
Bolton

Event Details

Duration

Minimum of 4 hours a day, 4 days a week

Ages

School aged

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Bolton Council

Food & Drink

Hot meal provided

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Ensure you have your unique HAF code ready when booking with providers to confirm your eligibility.
  • If your child is not eligible for a HAF code, check out the Play & Youth Service for free sessions and food available to all school-aged young people.
  • For specific session details and bookings, contact the providers directly via the details listed under each postcode (BL) tab.
  • Consider the 'Family Hubs' link for additional support services and a broader 'what's on' guide.
  • Review the 'More Information' section for FAQs and details on other support services, including food support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme?

The HAF programme, funded by the Department for Education and coordinated by Bolton Council, provides free physical and enriching activities alongside a hot meal for children and families on benefits-related Free School Meals during school holidays.

Who is eligible for the HAF programme?

The programme is primarily aimed at children and young people in Bolton who are eligible for benefits-related Free School Meals. They will receive a unique HAF code for booking.

What if my child is not eligible for a HAF code?

Bolton's Play & Youth Service, also known as #TeamBolton, offers free sessions and food to all school-aged young people across the borough. Look out for council sessions listed under the BL tabs.

How do I book a session?

You need to book directly with the providers listed under each postcode (BL) tab. You will need to provide your unique HAF code when booking to prove your eligibility.

What kind of activities are offered?

The programme offers a variety of physical activities, arts and crafts, and other enriching experiences, ensuring children have fun and learn new things while receiving a nutritious hot meal.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 2, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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