Lymington & Pennington Town Council presents
Summer Spectacular!
Lymington and Pennington Town Council is delighted to welcome you to the Summer Spectacular, the much loved community celebration formerly known as Picnic in the Park. Set in the heart of our town in Woodside Park, this event brings people together for an uplifting day of entertainment, activities, and local flavour, with something for all ages to enjoy. Whether you are here to relax with family and friends, discover brilliant local groups and businesses, or soak up the atmosphere, we hope you will make wonderful summer memories with us.
The event is free to attend and no charge for parking
The Knights of Royal England
Free to watch
Experience the thrill and pageantry of medieval times as the Knights Of Royal England bring their spectacular jousting and mediaeval entertainment to our event, showcasing dazzling displays of skill, galloping horses and heroic challengers in full armour that have made them one of Europe’s premier jousting troupes with over 20 years’ experience. Their performance echoes the deep heritage of the New Forest and Lymington, where centuries of history - from ancient Norman manors to salt-making marshlands - are woven into the landscape, and where stories of knights and medieval life have long captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
Falconry
Free to watch
Prepare to be captivated by two dynamic flying displays from Liberty’s team, showcasing a thrilling variety of birds of prey as they swoop, glide and soar through the sky with skill and precision. Throughout the day you’ll also have the chance to see these magnificent birds up close, learning about their unique behaviours and stunning adaptations while getting face-to-face with eagles, owls, hawks and other raptors as they rest between flights. Each display features different species in action, bringing the wild excitement of free flight to life and offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Skate Jam
Free to take part
Get ready for high-energy action at our Skate Jam, hosted by the crew behind Smith & Feeble, returning from last year’s crowd-pleasing show at Picnic in the Park. This jam-style competition is open to all ages and abilities with riders on scooters, skateboards and BMX showcasing their best tricks, creativity and style for the chance to take home prizes. There’s no need to pre-register – just roll up and get stuck in while local GB scooter champion Cam hosts the session, keeping the atmosphere upbeat and inspiring. Whether you’re competing, cheering on friends or learning new moves from fellow riders, this Skate Jam brings an exciting mix of community spirit and shredding talent to the event.
The Little Craft Shack
Quality retail opportunity
The Little Craft Shack will be curating an Arts and Crafts Village of high quality stalls, bringing together some of the finest independent creatives from Dorset, Hampshire and the South Coast. Expect a carefully selected mix of artists and makers, with the chance to browse and buy directly from the makers themselves, celebrating local, independent and handmade work in a vibrant market style setting.
Ferret Racing
Free activity - Prizes to be won!
Ferret racing is back at this year’s Summer Spectacular and it is set to be one of the day’s biggest crowd pleasers. Come along and watch the speedy little racers dash through their tunnels to the finish line, with plenty of laughs and lively commentary along the way. It is fun, family friendly entertainment that is perfect for all ages, so pick a favourite, cheer them on, and enjoy a truly memorable moment at this year’s event.
Huge Car Show
No charge to exhibit or view
This year’s Summer Spectacular car show will once again showcase a fantastic mix of vehicles, from much loved classics to modern favourites, with plenty to admire for enthusiasts and families alike. Exhibitors do not need to pre register, simply turn up on the day and our team will guide you into place. Whether you are bringing a vehicle or coming along to browse, it is a great chance to chat with fellow owners, enjoy the atmosphere, and celebrate all things motoring as part of this year’s event.
Fun Dog Show
Free to enter - Prizes for winners!
The fun dog show is back at this year’s Summer Spectacular, bringing wagging tails, happy faces, and plenty of feel good competition. From best behaved to waggiest tail, expect a series of light hearted classes that celebrate every kind of canine, whether they are a seasoned show star or simply here for the treats. Bring your four legged friend along, cheer on the entrants, and enjoy a charming highlight of the day that always gets the crowd smiling.
Sports Day Races
Free to enter - Prizes for winners!
Race details
Live Music
Free to listen (feel free to dance!)
Bands
Emergency Services
Free to get involved
Local emergency services will be at this year’s Summer Spectacular, with teams from the police, fire service, and coastguard on hand to share practical, life saving advice. Throughout the day you can meet the crews, learn simple skills that can make a real difference in an emergency, and pick up helpful safety tips for home, the road, and the coast. Please note that emergency service attendance is subject to operational requirements, so displays and timings may change at short notice if they are called away.
Fun Fair
Will Cole’s fun fair will bring extra colour and excitement to this year’s Summer Spectacular, with a brilliant selection of rides and attractions for all ages. Take a spin on the roundabouts, bounce on the inflatables, and do not miss the big wheel for a fantastic view across the event. Whether you are after classic fairground fun or a lively treat for the children, the fun fair will be a must visit highlight on the day.
Our local charities
Local charities will be joining this year’s Summer Spectacular, adding even more to enjoy throughout the day. Some will be offering free activities for children, giving families plenty of chances to get involved and have a go, while others will have stalls with games, treats, and items to browse in support of their work. You will also find friendly teams ready to share information about the services and facilities available locally, making it easy to discover what is on offer in the community and how to access it.
Try a new sport
Free to get involved
Fancy trying something new this year, come and have a go at one of the sports and wellbeing sessions running throughout the Summer Spectacular. Whether you are tempted by football, a relaxed game of pétanque, or a gentle yoga taster, it is a great chance to get active, learn the basics, and discover something you might want to carry on locally afterwards, no experience needed and everyone is welcome.
A fantastic feast!
Food and drink stalls will be serving everything from bratwurst, tacos, and made to order crêpes to ice cream, bubble tea, and a choice of mobile bars.
Food and drink will be available throughout the event, with lots of options to enjoy on the go or while you relax and take in the entertainment. Expect traditional bratwurst sausages, smoked birria tacos made with locally sourced meat, and freshly cooked sweet and savoury crêpes, followed by treats like real dairy Purbeck Ice Cream or a bubble tea topped with popping boba or jellies. If you fancy something to drink while you soak up the atmosphere, look out for the mobile bars including Hop On Inn and Pour You, offering a wide selection of refreshments across the day. You are welcome to bring your own picnic blankets and chairs, so you can find a comfortable spot, enjoy your food and drinks, and listen to the live music with family and friends.
Get In Touch
For inquiries about the festival or sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to us. We look forward to hearing from you!