Organised parents with creative children should book now for the medieval dress making workshop, Make It: Sculpture, as it is likely to book up fast. However, if you find yourself stuck for half term ideas at the last minute, don't panic, as the V&A's drop-in workshop The Imagination Station is also running. Here is everything you need to know.
The Imagination Station
Saturday 13th February 2016 to Sunday 21st February 2016, 10:30 - 17:00
One of the stars of Europe 1600-1815 is The Ommegang, one of six paintings recording a 1615 procession in Brussels. 'Ommegang' means ‘walking around’ in Old Flemish, and the V&A will be encouraging kids to do exactly that, roaming between the rooms of Europe 1600-1815 exploring the rich history of seventeenth and eighteenth century European life and absorbing the vivid colours and costumes of Ommegang.
Children are then given a free rein with paintbrushes and canvases to create their own ideal procession painting - be it medieval, contemporary or future space age worthy.
Suitable for ages 3-8: free, drop-in
Pop-up Performance
Saturday 13th February to Sunday 21st February 2016, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00
As children who attend the V&A's Imagination Station will know, The Ommegang is a 1615 painting recording a procession in Brussels that was held annually to honour a statue of the Virgin Mary and pay homage to Archduchess Isabella. Every day throughout half term, the V&A is reanimating the Ommegang procession with an interactive performance recreating the riot of colour and noise.
Children and their families get the chance to meet historical figures and play their part in the procession.
Suitable for all ages: recommended 3-12, free, drop-in
Make It: Sculpture
Monday 15th February 2016 to Friday 19th February 2016, 10:30 and 14:30
This second V&A workshop is all about getting creative, helping children to dream up and then make their own costumes for The Ommegang procession (that they can later attend).
Drawing inspiration from the unusual medieval costumes featured in The Ommegang, from the lavish waistcoats and hats of the marshals, to the flowing capes of the musicians and terrifying demon costumes of the people who carried sparklers, children will be given all the materials necessary to create their own fantastical finery.
Although the V&A is hosting two sessions every day, we strongly suggest booking in advance as these workshops are likely to book up fast.
Suitable for ages 5-12 years: £7.50 per child, advanced booking recommended
| What | V&A February Half term: Make-it Costume |
| Where | V&A, South Kensington, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL | MAP |
| Nearest tube | South Kensington (underground) |
| When |
13 Feb 16 – 21 Feb 16, Times Vary |
| Price | £Various |
| Website | For more information and to book, click here |
