Mermaid Quay became a hotspot in Cardiff every Thursday over the summer holidays, creating an exciting and vibrant reason for families to visit, return and spend time at the centre throughout the school holidays.
Running every Thursday from 23rd July to 27th August, the free programme brought nature, wildlife and sustainability to life through interactive workshops, arts and crafts, games, roaming entertainment and giveaways. The initiative created a lively atmosphere across Mermaid Quay, enhancing visitor experience while reinforcing the centre’s commitment to its waterfront environment and local biodiversity.
The programme successfully encouraged repeat visits and increased footfall, giving families a reason to return to Mermaid Quay week after week. With different nature-inspired themes each Thursday, the event offered something new for visitors to discover while encouraging families to spend quality time together at Cardiff Bay.
The success of the programme was reflected in positive feedback from visitors, with families highlighting the enjoyable and vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to take part in activities together.
“What a cracking idea this was. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed coming each week over summer”
“We came along for the first event and have kept coming back because there’s so much for the children to enjoy”
“It’s been such a lovely way to spend a few hours together. The kids have had fun and learned so much”
“It’s been a real highlight of our summer holidays”
From the centre manager, Mark Lemon:
“The event has been great! We’ve had an amazing turnout and it’s had such a positive impact on Mermaid Quay”
Each week continued to attract families with activities focused on plants, pollinators and wildlife. Each workshop gave children the chance to make a variety colourful crafty creations and capture memories with many photo opportunities. All held beneath Mermaid Quay’s Big Green Leaf installation, there were so many occasions for children to learn something new. The popularity of each event created an exciting and welcoming atmosphere across the quay.
Although one event was cancelled due to wet and windy weather, the programme never lost its spark. Children were constantly engaged and parents were grateful for the chance to create memories and connect with the local environment.
The programme also supported Mermaid Quay’s wider sustainability objectives by giving visitors an engaging way to learn more about nature, wildlife and biodiversity in Cardiff Bay. By combining environmental education with memorable family experiences, the events helped strengthen Mermaid Quay’s position as more than a place to stop and eat, but as a destination to spend time and make memories.
The positive response from families and the variety of activities across the programme demonstrated the value of creating regular, free experiences that encourage visitors to return and enjoy more of what Mermaid Quay has to offer.