Family Festival FAQs

We’re really looking forward to seeing you over the Bank Holiday weekend for our annual Family Festival. You might have some questions before you visit so we’ve done our best to answer our most frequently asked questions below!

If you still have anything you’re not sure about, please email boxoffice@octagonbolton.co.uk


Are the Family Festival activities free?

Once you are inside the Octagon building all the participatory activities are free, with the exception of Face Painting and Henna for which there is a small chargeof £3 each. Spaces for this can be reserved & paid for at the Box Office on the day.

There are lots of other activities going on throughout the weekend across Bolton too, including free family activities at Elizabeth Park run by our friends at Bolton Library and Museums.


Do I need to print my tickets?

You do not need to print your ticket, a link to a digital ticket will be sent to the booker via text before the event. We’ll then need to check your ticket and you’ll be given a wristband upon entry.


What time do I need to arrive?

You will either have a ticket for the morning slot (10.00am-12.30pm) or the afternoon slot (1.30pm-4pm). Doors will open at the start of your slot time. You can arrive any time during your slot, but we’d advise giving yourself enough time to take part in all the activities.


Can I store my buggy anywhere at the Octagon?

Yes, we have a small area for buggy storage. All items are stored at the owner's risk. Our building is fully accessible, so you are welcome to take your buggy around with you if you prefer.


Is there any food / drink available in the building?

Yes, our Kitchen & Bar is open from 10am with a delicious selection of homemade food and snacks for all ages.

We politely ask that you refrain from eating your own food in our Kitchen & Bar area.

There is an exciting offer of decorating your own animal biscuit (free with any purchase).


Does the Octagon have a baby change area?

Yes, we have a baby change facility on our First Floor Kitchen and Bar, next to the First Floor Kitchen and Bar Toilets. Just ask a member of the Octagon team for directions if you need.


Does the Octagon have access toilets?

Yes, we have an access toilet on the Ground Floor outside of Studio 1, and ground floor toilets in the Ground Floor Kitchen and Bar area. We also have them on the First and Second Floors too. We also have a Changing Places Facility, please ask Box Office for access to this facility if needed, when at the festival.


I can no longer attend the Family Festival, how do I return my ticket?

Our advance tickets have now all been booked, so if you are no longer able to go to the festival we would really appreciate if you could return your tickets so we can offer them to families who may be on our waiting list or have missed out on booking.

To do this you can either ring our Box Office on 01204 520661 or email boxoffice@octagonbolton.co.uk