From Halloween trails to a puppet show, having fun does not have to cost a fortune with plenty of free events running in Norfolk over the October half-term.
1. Drop-in Activities, Norwich
Where: Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL
When: October 23-27
There will be free drop-in activities throughout half-term at Norwich Theatre Royal, ranging from dressing up boxes to pantomime colouring sheets.
Alongside this, there are a range of bookable sessions, with prices from £5, and family shows, including The Amazing Bubble Man on October 23 at The Playhouse.
READ MORE: 'Something for everyone' - Huge new pumpkin patch opens in Norfolk
2. Hansel and Gretel, Hunstanton
Where: Town Hall, Hunstanton, PE36 6BQ
When: October 26, 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm (25-minute show)
Strange Fascination Theatre is treating families to a free puppet show over the holidays, which is suitable for ages 5+.
It is a version of the classic tale of Hansel and Gretel told in comic verse, featuring handmade puppets by Daisy Plackett and written by Simon Michael-Morgan.
3. Black Cats and Witches Halloween Trail, Norwich
Where: Chantry Place, St Stephens Street, Norwich, NR1 3SH
When: October 21-31
Families can pick up a free trail map from HMV or The Works and then they need to find the letters to spell a magical word.
Post your entry for a chance to win a prize worth more than £150 and the first 1,000 families get a free trail badge.
There is also a Halloween photo opportunity opposite Oliver Bonas and the RSPB will be at Chantry Place on October 24, 25 and 28 with an autumn-themed display.
READ MORE: 7 of the best Norfolk pick-your-own pumpkin patches in 2023
4. Halloween Trail, Holt
Where: Holt Garden Centre, Holgate Hill, Kelling, Holt, NR25 7ER
When: October 21-31
Join Count Dracula and his friends and take part in a spooky trail this Halloween.
It is free to take part, with no booking required, and all participants will receive a goodie bag.
5. Trolls and Stranger Things Events, Norwich
Where: Castle Quarter, Castle Meadow, Norwich, NR1 3DD
When: October 21 (Trolls): 12noon-4pm, October 28 (Stranger Things): 11am-4pm
On Saturday, October 21, meet fluffy-haired duo Poppy and Branch and celebrate the release of the latest Trolls film with various photo opportunities.
Then on Saturday, October 28, Stranger Things is casting an eerie presence over the Castle Quarter.
Be prepared to stumble across a demigod, Vecna’s grandfather clock, Hopper’s American cop car and lots more nods to the Netflix phenomenon.
READ MORE: 'Europe's biggest Christmas show' returning to Norfolk with new additions
6. Skull and Bones Trail, Old Buckenham
Where: Old Buckenham Country Park, Doe Lane, Old Buckenham, NR17 1PP
When: October 21-29
It is Halloween so dig up some bones and skulls - can you work out what animals they belonged to?
All activities are free and the coffee shop will be open to buy light snacks and refreshments from.
7. Ancient Romans Family Event, King's Lynn
Where: Lynn Museum, Market Street, King's Lynn, PE30 1NL
When: October 26, 10am-4pm
Explore the world of Roman Britannia, meet a legionary soldier and handle real historic artefacts.
Family activities run between 10am and 12.30pm and 1.30pm and 4pm and admission is free, with pre-booking recommended at norfolk-museums.arttickets.org.uk
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