Southbank Centre’s Imagine returns with fun-filled creative events for families and young people

London’s leading festival for families returns to the Southbank Centre in its 24th year, transforming the UK’s largest arts centre into a cultural playground. Running throughout the February half term (Wed 11 – Sat 21 Feb 2026), Imagine is the first festival of the Southbank Centre’s 75th anniversary celebrations, bringing unbeatable cultural experiences for 0 – 11+ years and their families to enjoy together.

Introducing children to the wonder of arts and creativity, Imagine offers interactive experiences which inspire the Southbank Centre’s youngest visitors and their families to try new things for the first time with a captivating programme spanning best-selling children’s authors, music, dance, circus, visual arts and a host of free events.

Bringing families together to spark their imaginations, the festival includes An Evening with Jacqueline Wilson and Rachael Dean (15 Feb) where Jacqueline will talk about her beloved ‘Sleepovers’ series and be joined by her illustrator Rachael Dean, leading a live draw-along.

Following the talk, Imagine continues to celebrate the magic of sleepovers with a brand new event offering a chance to explore the festival after dark with The Sleepover Club (15 Feb). Children aged 7-11 years old and accompanying adults are invited to explore the Southbank Centre and uncover new stories before camping in the Royal Festival Hall overnight. With snacks and stories provided all that members of the Sleepover Club will need are a sleeping bag, pyjamas and an appetite for adventure.