What to expect from Helifest

You’ll hear a distant thump of live music, the smell of freshly cooked food, and the taste of a beautiful summer’s day (ok, don’t hold us to the last one, we can’t make any promises on the British weather!).

Regardless, pack your picnic blanket, sunglasses and maybe a brolly – it’s time to get ready for Helifest.

Nee naw

First up, as you enter Helifest, you’ll spot an array of emergency service vehicles, including a fire engine and our very own critical care car – the teams will be able to give you a full tour of their wheels.

This one’s bound to be a hit with any youngster who’s fascinated with flashy lights and sirens.

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s literally a bird

Do you ever get the feeling you’re being watched? By big beady eyes? Well, you probably are… by the Gosling Raptors.

Don’t panic, though – these birds are super friendly, you can even stroke and hold them, so this is your friendly reminder to pack your camera ready to snap a few pictures.

Can adults go on the inflatables?

Absolutely- why should the kids have all the fun? Choose from a bouncy castle, a thrilling fun run, or the challenging impossible ladders. Whether you’re letting the kids loose or embracing your inner child, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

Gettin’ crafty

Take a leisurely stroll through our local market stalls, where you’ll find an incredible array of unique items. From hand-crafted treasures and delicious sweet treats to boutique dog accessories, we’d be shocked if you left Helifest empty-handed.

Every purchase you make supports small, local businesses, too… shopping never felt so good!

Working up an appetite

After all that jumping, walking and browsing around, we expect your tummy will be making some rumbling noises.

You’ll be pleased to know we have a number of highly rated food and drink stalls joining us at Helifest.

Grab some of Piggy Blinder’s iconic filthy fries, indulge in a burger from Manhattan Grill, or chow down on some of Habibi Come’s shawarmas… then, rinse it all down with a drink from Viking Coffee or I love coffee.

If you’re one for sweet treats, there’s ice cream all round from Mr. Whippy and milkshakes from Udderly Delicious… bon apetit!

Be amused

Find a spot, set up camp to enjoy your grub, and tune into the live music playing around you. Alex Lyons, an 18-year-old singer-songwriter from Teesside, will be blessing your ears with the sweet sound of acoustic folk and pop music.

Keep your eyes peeled for ladies in orange, they’re known as the Bangshees, and boy do they make a bang! They’re part of a female samba drumming band, and without a doubt will have your toes tapping.

Expect bubbles. Lots of bubbles. Kids love them, we love them, and so does the bubble man who will be pulling huge shapes with soapy water to keep your youngsters mesmerised.

Oh, and if you see some Storm Troopers marching in, don’t panic, the event is not being hijacked, they’re simply there for your entertainment. Welcome the North East Legion, an all-volunteer, Star Wars costuming group, who’ll be bringing the force to Helifest.

Team Green

Don’t forget to stop by our charity tent and say hello to Team Green! Our friendly volunteers and dedicated staff will be sure to give you a warm welcome.

Have a game of hook a duck, grab some raffle tickets, and take part in a penalty shoot-out against our mascot, Miles. Oh, and did we mention you can grab a bargain as our Trading Company have a stand too.

Who knows? We might just get a surprise visit from our critical care team…

Let us know if you’re coming along! We can’t wait to see you: https://fb.me/e/6ZdYfhsXH