Half term fun for the family

The year of the monkey is upon us, and Leeds Town Hall is putting on a show that will give visitors a real taste of China. The Chinese New Year Celebrations on Sunday, February 14, will include a variety of performances including dance, music, calligraphy, kung fu and tai chi, as well as a selection of stalls offering Chinese food and crafts.

Lotherton Hall will be celebrating all things feathered during their Love Birds week, which runs from Saturday, February 14 until Sunday, February 21 every day from 10am until 3pm, and features bird-themed crafts and activities.

Taking part is free but usual estate admission applies.

Leeds City Museum will also be getting involved in the fun, by hosting an exciting day of DJ skills on Thursday, February 18, 11am-3pm.

DJ School UK will take over the museum’s Broderick Hall for the day of free workshops which will explain the role of a DJ and allow hands on opportunities for young people to use DJ equipment and mix tracks together.

And on Friday, February 19, 11am-3pm, they will also be hosting free event in partnership with The Grammar School at Leeds, which will feature face-painting, workshops and hands-on activities.

Love will be in the air at Temple Newsam with a week of love related tours and crafts starting on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 and then continuing Tuesday 16 until Sunday 21, 10.30am-5pm.

Activities are free but usual house admission applies.

Visitors to Kirkstall Abbey can attend Little Crackers on Tuesday, February 16, from 10-11am, a special under 5s session to celebrate Chinese New Year, the year of the monkey.

Thwaite Mills Watermill in the south of the city will be holding workshops themed around science and nature with drop-in sessions on Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18, 1-3pm. Taking part is free but usual museum admission applies.

Half term is fast approaching, and there are lots of activities to get kids back in touch with nature at the National Trust.

It’s the perfect opportunity for the whole family to create special memories at places springing to life after the winter months.

If outdoor activities are your favourites then the National Trust has a few treats in store this week.

At Brimham Rocks on February 18, 1-2.30pm, the over fives can take part in fun and games in the 50 Things themed event.

The following day, 10am-4pm, children can join Harrogate Climbing Centre at the rocks. Booking essential on 01423 815024.