Families are invited to make the most of the last few weeks of summer holidays with a final chance to experience Dragonfly Festival here at WWT Washington.
Running until 31 August, the festival celebrates the wonder of wetlands with performances, hands‑on activities and family fun inspired by one of nature’s most beautiful insects. More than 13,000 visitors have already joined us this summer, starting their colourful adventure at the Dragonfly Festival Hub for welcome crafts before heading out to explore the seasonal sights and sounds of the wetlands.
There is plenty to enjoy in the festival’s final weeks. Families can make music in the festival busk stop, swoop around like dragonflies at our silent discos and get hands colourful with wetland and dragonfly themed workshops. Visitors can uncover a kaleidoscope of minibeasts during pond dipping sessions, test their skill and agility with giant outdoor games and discover the secret lives of dragonflies on guided walks with our wetland experts.
Across the reserve, self‑led activities add even more fun, including Dino Dragonfly Hunting in Wetwood and the Sonic Pond Trail. Daily themed activities have brought bursts of colour and energy to WWT Washington throughout the summer holidays, offering accessible experiences for all.
Gill Pipes, Centre Manager at WWT Washington, said:
“We have been delighted to spot 15 species of dragonfly at WWT Washington so far this season, including the rare Willow Emerald Damselfly, a species that was only first recorded on site last year. With Dragonfly Festival entering its final weeks, now is the perfect time for families to come and see these amazing insects across our wetlands before the summer holidays come to an end.
“Dragonfly Festival is all about getting families closer to nature, discovering the superpowers of wetlands and experiencing something exciting with every visit. Whether it is spotting dragonflies for the first time on a safari or seeking out prehistoric dragonflies in our cooling Wet Wood habitat, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Dragonflies are among wetlands’ most captivating species. Agile aerial hunters with shimmering wings and extraordinary life cycles, they play an important role in healthy wetland ecosystems. The festival shines a spotlight on their importance and the need to protect the habitats they depend on.
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