Allison writes:
Lollibop was most definitely one of the best events I have ever taken my kids to. From start to finish it was smiles all round.
From getting off the train we were greeted by events staff with big foam hands pointing us all in the direction we needed to go. This took a lot of stress out of the day for me as I am not local and I hate not knowing where I am going. There were big foam hands along the whole route acting as markers so that everyone could get to the event quickly and easily. There were a lot of staff at the gates and queues to direct and assist if needed which, again, meant things were relatively stress free for parents.
Once inside you could not help but smile. There were larger than life characters meeting and greeting the children; photo opportunities and colourful stalls and tents as far as the eye could see. Most of the stalls and tents provided free activities for the children, with something they could make and take away with them. This was a fantastic feature as you felt like you were getting more for your money (entrance fee), but unfortunately most of the stalls had ran out before the end of the day, so was a little disappointing. I was impressed that most of the stalls were providing free activities for the children and noticed only a handful that were charging for their services (excluding food stalls). It made it more relaxing for parents to not have to deal with pestering for everything the children seen. This event really did seem to be all about the children and the family enjoying themselves.
The entertainment was obviously the main attraction, with presenters and characters from C-beebies; Milkshake; Nick Jnr and more, taking to the stages to wow us all. Sid and Andy from C-beebies were very popular, with their own show. My only complaint about this show is also my favourite part of it. Their venue was too small for the amount of children (complaint) but it made it feel intimate and like you really were at their ‘party’ (compliment). They were fantastic live and my daughter was over the moon to see the familiar faces right there in front of her. even when the music system failed, they continued like true professionals and the audience could not tell that there was even meant to be music.
The main attraction was, of course, Justin Fletcher. He really pulled in the crowds, and you could see that all the children were excited to see him. Unfortunately, he could not really be seen by all, due to the large crowd of people gathered around the stage. I’m pretty short (5foot 2) and I couldn’t see the stage or the screens and certainly couldn’t lift two children up high enough to be able to see. Some more screens may have helped, but I don’t think there is anything the organisers could do, Justin is just so popular! But it was good to know he was there.
There was a lot to pack into the day and you really needed to choose wisely as there was nowhere near enough time to see and do everything. We missed out on quite a few things, but we didn’t feel cheated as we had tired ourselves out with everything we had been able to do. It was non stop fun all day long.
My only real complaint was the toilet situation. There were plenty of toilets, but they were all at one place. So if you had a toddler who was at one end of the site and desperate to go, you had to walk all the way back.
There were entertainers walking round and freebies being handed out for the kids and not once did I hear my children complain or moan about anything. Wonderful! I loved it just as much as the children and we would definitely go back. The cost does not seem so bad when you are thoroughly enjoying yourself and being given free sweets, cakes and t-shirts. The best day out we have had this year!!!
