Free music events for children and families in Cumbria this summer

A SUMMER programme of free creative events is bringing music and family fun to the community.

BlueJam Arts CIC, based in Penrith, has launched an inclusive arts programme for families, supported by funding from Cumbria Music Hub, offering concerts, hands-on music sessions, and drumming workshops led by professional musicians.

All sessions in BlueJam’s summer programme take place at BlueJam’s arts space at Mostyn Hall, Friargate, and are open to families with children of all ages and abilities.

Parents and carers must stay with their children throughout the sessions and are encouraged to join in, as no prior musical experience or knowledge is required.

Children getting stuck in. (Image: BlueJam)

One parent, reflecting on BlueJam’s previous family activities, said: “The team is so incredibly welcoming and they are so amazing with children.

“We’ve enjoyed everything we’ve been to.

“The relaxed family concerts geared towards children have been amazing.

“I’m not sure where else we could get that experience.

“The ‘Have a Go’ sessions have been a fantastic opportunity for my son.”

The summer programme includes relaxed family concerts, ‘Have a Go’ sessions, and ‘Come and Drum’ workshops.

Events are scheduled for July 19, July 24, August 4, August 11, August 16, August 18, and August 25.

BlueJam’s popular ‘Come and Drum’ workshops. (Image: BlueJam)

Although all activities in BlueJam’s summer programme are free, booking is essential.

To reserve a place, families should email [email protected] with their preferred sessions and the number of adults and children attending.

BlueJam Arts will also appear at Stomping Ground’s Wild Play Days, taking place at Thacka Beck Field on July 31 and Fairhill Recreation Ground on August 7.

No booking is required for these outdoor events.

A full programme of dates and details is available at https://bluejamarts.org/summer-programme-2026/.