WHY Festival 2015, Southbank Centre

Looking for things to do in London this half term? WHY Festival, an exciting and thought-provoking family event, is returning to the Southbank Centre to celebrate the rights of children and teenagers.

Modelled after the United Nations Convention on Rights of Children, WHY Festival promises to create an “empowering forum for children, young people, and adults” and is suitable for kids from age seven onwards. Chock-a-block with engaging talks, workshops, performances, and debates for the whole family, this inspiring and innovative event pays tribute to the things that our children need and deserve the most—freedom of expression, fun, security, and access to culture and art.

Highlights of the weekend includes talks by the beloved children’s authors Jacqueline Wilson and Michael Morpurgo who will reflect upon what it is that makes a happy childhood. Other activities include a workshop run by NatWest that teaches kids how to handle money and many opportunities for kids to make a difference and express themselves through artistic media such as dance, song, crafts, and even poetry slams.

Tickets must be booked in advance either online, over the phone, or in person at the Royal Festival Hall Ticket Office. While most activities are free, select events cost between £4 and £14.

Tickets to see Jacqueline Wilson and Michael Morpurgo

Jacqueline Wilson: 12pm - 1pm on Saturday 24 October
Michael Morpurgo: 2pm-3pm on Sunday 25 October.

Both talks are free and suitable for ages 6+