Easter events in Preston

Easter in Preston offers plenty of opportunities for you to keep the whole family entertained throughout the school holidays. With a wide mix of outdoor traditions, themed adventures, creative workshops and free activities across the city, you can easily plan a few days out without travelling far. Whether you are looking for a classic Easter egg hunt or something a little different, there is something suitable for children of all ages.

Ribble Steam Railway

One of the highlights of the Easter weekend is the Easter Weekend Specials at Ribble Steam Railway, taking place on Friday 3 April and Saturday 4 April 2026 from 10am to 4.30pm. If you are planning a family day out, this event gives you more than just a train ride. As well as visiting the museum and café and letting children enjoy the playground, you can also take part in an Easter egg hunt around the site. The historic steam trains are a major attraction in themselves, and seeing one of the country’s oldest working locomotives makes the visit feel extra special. It is a relaxed and enjoyable way to start the Easter break.

Hoghton Tower

If your children enjoy imaginative adventures, the Dragon Egg Easter Quest at Hoghton Tower could be one of the most memorable events you attend this year. Running on Friday 3 April, Sunday 5 April and Monday 6 April from 11am to 3pm, this event turns a traditional egg hunt into a themed experience. You can help your children search for missing dragon eggs hidden around the tower grounds while they complete a series of challenges along the way. The focus on storytelling and creativity makes this event particularly suitable if you are looking for something a little different from a standard Easter activity.

Preston Markets

Preston Markets will also be offering simple and affordable family entertainment during the Easter weekend. On Saturday 4 April between 11am and 3pm, you can take the children along to meet the Easter Bunny, who will be handing out free chocolate eggs. Face painters will also be there to create colourful Easter-themed designs. It is a good option if you want something short and easy to fit into your day, especially if you are already planning a visit to the city centre.

Samlesbury Hall

For a longer activity, you might want to visit Samlesbury Hall between Monday 6 April and Sunday 12 April for the Easter Dragon EGGventure. This event builds on the same imaginative theme as Hoghton Tower but offers a slightly different experience. You can explore the hall and its grounds while following a story-based quest that focuses on mythical creatures and hidden treasures. With live action puppetry included, it gives younger children something fun to follow while older children can still enjoy the challenge of searching for clues.

Egg Rolling

One of Preston’s most well-known Easter traditions returns on Monday 6 April with the Egg Rolling event at Avenham and Miller Parks. If you are looking for a large community event where everyone can take part, this is likely to be one of the busiest and most popular days of the holiday. You can watch the traditional egg rolling on the hill, browse market stalls, enjoy live performances and take part in creative workshops. There is also an Easter bonnet competition, which makes it a great event if your children enjoy getting involved in something creative before the day itself.

The Harris

There are also several quieter activities taking place during the second week of the holidays. Curious Creators at The Harris on Wednesday 8 April gives children aged between three and nine the chance to try a variety of simple art and activity stations inspired by history, nature and shapes. If you are looking for something calm and educational, this is a good midweek option.

Barton Grange Garden Centre

You can also plan a visit to Barton Grange Garden Centre on Saturday 11 April to meet the team from Lancashire Hawks and Owls. This event allows children to see birds of prey up close and learn more about how they are cared for. On the same day, Preston Markets will also be hosting a balloon artist, which offers another free activity if you want something quick and entertaining.

Arc Cinema

If the weather is not ideal, you can still keep the children entertained with family-friendly films at Arc Cinema. With affordable tickets and special Kids Club screenings throughout the school holidays, it gives you a simple indoor option when you need one.