Picnic in the Park, held on Thursday 13 August, gave families the chance to enjoy a packed programme of activities and entertainment during the summer holidays, with free entry for all ages.

The day featured a range of activities including inflatables, arts and crafts, football games, wacky races, a colour run and visits from mascots and emergency service vehicles. The Alba Explorers also joined the event, while information stalls gave visitors the opportunity to find out more about support available to young people and families.

Families attending were also able to enjoy free packed picnic lunches, generously provided by Tayside Contracts through its Community Fund. Ice cream and hot dogs were also available.

Picnic in the Park was funded by the Hillcrest Foundation to provide families with an inclusive and affordable day out during the school holidays.

Dawn Balfour, project worker with Hillcrest Futures’ Angus Young People’s Services, said: “It was fantastic to see so many families enjoying the day together. School holidays can put extra pressure on household budgets, so being able to provide a free event with lots for children and families to do – as well as a free packed lunch – means people can simply come along and enjoy themselves.

“It’s also about giving families the chance to spend positive time together, make memories and connect with other people in their community. It was wonderful to see people of all ages getting involved and enjoying the activities on offer. We’re really pleased that so many people came along and were part of the day.

“We’d also like to thank colleagues from across Hillcrest who volunteered their time to support the event. Their enthusiasm and willingness to get involved helped create a welcoming atmosphere and helped to ensure the day ran smoothly for everyone attending.”

Picnic in the Park is part of a wider programme of summer holiday support made possible through funding from the Hillcrest Foundation. Alongside the community event, Angus Young People’s Services is using the funding to provide fully funded trips and activities for families engaged with its services, with a mix of outdoor, recreational and other experiences across Angus, Tayside and Fife. The programme aims to reduce some of the financial barriers families face during the school holidays while creating opportunities for positive shared experiences. 

John Booth, director of Hillcrest Futures, said: “The Hillcrest Foundation is proud to support a programme that helps families access experiences that financial pressures can sometimes put out of reach.

“Picnic in the Park brings that same approach to the wider community, offering families a welcoming and inclusive day where there is something for everyone to enjoy. We’re also extremely grateful to Tayside Contracts for supporting the event through its Community Fund and providing free packed lunches for those attending. Their contribution helped us make the day even more accessible for local families.”

Hillcrest Futures’ Angus Young People’s Services support children, young people and families across Angus through early intervention, family support, mental health peer support and drug and alcohol services. Events such as Picnic in the Park reflect the service’s ongoing work to reduce isolation, support wellbeing and help families build stronger relationships and brighter futures.