Whether a child wants to build, create, climb, paint, cuddle, learn, explore, play or simply sit making something, every activity has been has been chosen with purpose.
Every activity at Foster Fest 2026 has been chosen with one purpose, to give children and young people the freedom to enjoy themselves, discover new interests and make happy memories.
We are incredibly grateful to every organisation who has generously agreed to give their time, expertise and enthusiasm to make this possible.
University of Hull
Learning doesn't have to happen in a classroom.
The fantastic team from the University of Hull will be bringing science to life with hands on STEM activities, giving children the chance to experiment, explore and discover just how exciting science can be. From fizzing rockets to making musical instruments, they'll be proving that curiosity is one of the greatest gifts we can encourage in young people.
The Herd Theatre
Imagination has no limits. The Herd Theatre's wonderful Play Market will transform everyday recycled materials into a world of endless possibilities. Through dressing up, drawing, building, sculpting, music making and creative play, children and families will be encouraged to play together, tell stories and let their imaginations run free.
Their approach reminds us that some of the best adventures begin with a little creativity.
Goxhill Meadows
Sometimes the greatest healing happens outdoors. Goxhill Meadows provides therapeutic and wellbeing support for children, young people and adults through nature, creativity and animal assisted experiences. Their trauma informed approach helps people feel safe, listened to and valued, creating opportunities to build confidence, emotional wellbeing and a genuine sense of belonging.
We're delighted they'll be sharing their wonderful work with our families.
Temple Spa
Foster Fest isn't only about our children. It's also about recognising the incredible foster carers who give so much of themselves every single day.
Wellbeing Coach Sue will be offering relaxing wellbeing and pamper sessions throughout the festival, creating a calm space where carers can take a few well deserved moments for themselves.
Because sometimes looking after yourself is just as important as looking after everyone else.
Hull KR Foundation
Hull KR Foundation believes in changing lives through sport, education and healthy lifestyles, and we're incredibly grateful to have them joining Foster Fest.
Their team will be delivering a fantastic mix of sporting activities, STEM experiences using robotics and technology, together with appearances from some very special visitors throughout the day.
Their commitment to tackling inequalities and inspiring young people makes them a perfect fit for Foster Fest.
Tigers Trust
Sport has an amazing way of bringing people together.
The team from Tigers Trust will be providing fun sporting activities that encourage children to get active, build confidence and most importantly, have fun together.
For many young people these shared experiences become some of the happiest memories of childhood.
Hull Training Hub
Learning practical skills can be both enjoyable and empowering. Hull Training Hub will be bringing a fantastic mix of activities including parachute games, Kwik Cricket and practical first aid demonstrations, giving families opportunities to learn new skills while enjoying themselves together.
ASTRA Youth Centre
The team from ASTRA Youth Centre will be helping children create colourful friendship bracelets, giving young people the chance to make something unique to take home while spending time chatting, laughing and making new friends.
Softplay Tots
Our youngest visitors haven't been forgotten. Softplay Tots will be creating a dedicated baby and toddler zone where little ones can safely explore, play and enjoy age appropriate activities while parents and carers relax knowing they're in a welcoming environment designed especially for them.
KIDS
For many families, inclusion isn't simply important, it's essential. KIDS has supported disabled children, young people and their families across Hull and the East Riding for many years, providing specialist services, family support and opportunities that help children thrive.
Their team will be bringing sensory activities and inclusive experiences to Foster Fest, helping ensure every child feels welcome, supported and able to join in the fun.
Hull Museums
History becomes much more exciting when you can touch it. Hull Museums will be bringing hands on activities inspired by their fantastic collections, including crafts linked to this summer's Moomins exhibition together with fascinating historical objects that children can handle and explore. It's a wonderful opportunity to discover more about Hull's rich history while getting creative.
Let's Tech Together
Technology should never be a barrier. Let's Tech Together works tirelessly to tackle digital exclusion by refurbishing donated technology, providing affordable devices, free data through the Good Things Foundation National Databank and practical support for people who need it most.
At Foster Fest they'll be sharing advice, accepting donated technology and showing families how old devices can be given a second life, helping more people stay connected.
NHS 0 to 19 Team
The NHS 0 to 19 Team supports families from pregnancy through childhood and into young adulthood, offering expert advice on children's health, development, wellbeing and safety.
Their friendly team will be on hand throughout the festival to offer information, reassurance and support to families who may have questions or simply want to know more about the services available locally.
Listening Ear 4 U
Parenting children with additional needs can sometimes feel overwhelming. Listening Ear 4 U provides invaluable support for parents and carers of children and young people with additional needs, creating safe spaces where families can access advice, friendship and understanding from people who truly understand their experiences. We're delighted they'll be joining us at Foster Fest.
Cats Protection
Cats Protection has spent decades improving the lives of cats through rescue, rehoming and education, and they'll be bringing plenty of family fun to Foster Fest with games, crafts and opportunities to learn more about responsible pet ownership. We know many of our fostering families are huge animal lovers, so this promises to be a very popular stop throughout the day.
Navigate SEND
Navigate SEND has become a fantastic source of practical resources for families supporting children with additional needs. Their stall will feature sensory products, communication aids, disability awareness merchandise and everyday items designed to support inclusion while celebrating neurodiversity.
Into the Forest
Beautifully handcrafted wooden toys, sensory resources and imaginative play equipment are at the heart of Into the Forest.
Every item has been thoughtfully created to encourage curiosity, creativity and hands on learning, helping children explore the world around them through play.
St John Ambulance
Every great event depends upon the people working behind the scenes. We are incredibly grateful to St John Ambulance for providing professional first aid cover throughout Foster Fest, helping ensure our families can relax and enjoy the day knowing experienced volunteers are there if needed.
Alongside their event support, they'll also be demonstrating life saving first aid skills, inspiring the next generation to learn techniques that could one day save a life.
Every organisation featured here has generously given their time because they believe children deserve opportunities to laugh, learn, explore and simply enjoy being children.
Their kindness is helping turn Foster Fest from an idea into an unforgettable experience for hundreds of children and families across Hull.
In the final part of this feature we'll introduce the wonderful independent businesses, talented makers, local food vendors and community supporters who are helping complete the Foster Fest experience, before recognising the remarkable people working behind the scenes to make it all possible.