ChrisD
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Hi Folks
This is my first Green Man and my first ever festival with the kids in tow (3 and 5 years old). Can anyone give me details of their experiences with their kids at past GM festivals. I think I'm really looking for reassurance that everyone will enjoy themselves. Would also like some info on the atmosphere of the family camping area and the distance from the stages.
Yours
Chris (the constant worrier)
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Krasnyi
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Re: Kids
Jul 29, 2008, 11:43
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Various threads on this topic on the unofficial board (http://greenmanfest.proboards57.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=429) including at least one started by me last year when I was probably as anxious as you! Our main worry was how to put a tent up with two kids in tow (then aged nearly 4 and 18 months). No problem. Within seconds of arriving at the family campsite our two were off playing with other kids and basically all the grown-ups kppe an eye on things - it's a very friendly atmosphere. I remember one child temporarily went missing - within seconds there were a dozen or more adults scurrying round to find her.
Regarding the festival itself I would say don't have too many expectations about seeing all the acts you want to - your kids may have other ideas so be selective (I've told my daughter she can stay up for King Creosote this year) What the kids will like most of all are the bubbles stall, rolling down the hill in front of the main stage, climbing trees, mud (hopefully not this year), the children's activity tent. It's really dead exciting for them. when you're used to a suburb of Birmingham, spending a few days in a tent at the foot of Sugar Loaf Mountain should be pretty special!
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Krasnyi
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Re: Kids
Jul 29, 2008, 11:47
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Not too far to walk between the stages (though the Folkey Dokey stage is moving this year - it was too close to the main stage last year anyway). The walk from the carpark to the family camping site isn't too far especially if you get there on Thursday. Make sure you follow the signs for family camping though. Also a good idea to get your kids used to some of the music on offer. Last year my daughter became a huge fan of Gruff Rhys's Candylion and thoroughly enjoyed being allowed to stay up late to see him in action. she was also convinced that every bearded man she saw at the festival WAS Gruff Rhys - that's a a lot of Gruffs! Honestly you'll have a great time!
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woodenrabbit
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Re: Kids
Jul 29, 2008, 19:07
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I can firmly say that The Green Man is an exceptional event to take your kids to. Having separated from my wife 2 years ago prior to the 1st Green Man I attended I was nervous about it being the 1st holiday on my own with my kids. I needn't have worried and it was SO FANTASTIC an experience that I returned last year ('the year of the bubbles' as my kids call it). This year there will be a group of about 20 of us including 10 kids at least - so all I can say to you is, you and your kids will LOVE the experience!
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polari
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Re: Kids
Jul 29, 2008, 20:36
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Was at Camp Bestival the other weekend which a really badly run festival.
I wanted to go because I thought it would be good for people with kids but there was nothing to see, and the kids found it boring.
Worse still my family and I had to wait hours before we were allowed to set up up tent and then we had to camp in the car park miles away from the festival.
I feel really ripped off.
I can see now why people who have gone to other festivals and not to the green man before are concerned about coming. If this is an example then its just not worth it.
It has really made me appreciate the Green Man. It is definitely the best festival for families and anyone with kids who comes will have a great time.
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Cline51
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Re: Kids
Jul 31, 2008, 10:09
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Hi we went for the first time last year with our kidsaged 3 and 1. It was excellent - despite the rain! There was so much for them to do and the feel of the festival is very family friendly. I am really looking forward to going this year now that they are a bit older and will enjoy it even more!
We are also in a suburb of Birmingham so really looking forward to seeing the green hills!!
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Krasnyi
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Re: Kids
Jul 31, 2008, 13:37
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Which suburb of Brum is that? Should be a big Brum contingent there methinks.
Krasnyi of the Kings Heath posse
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Cline51
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Re: Kids
Jul 31, 2008, 19:39
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Hey we are Kings Heath too!
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Shiney
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Re: Kids
Jul 31, 2008, 19:47
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I live in crickhowell but come from balsall heath do I count?
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Krasnyi
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Re: Kids
Aug 01, 2008, 09:46
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Absolutely Shiney! Kings Heath is so cool - it's the new Moseley (so passe). Kings Heath is also home to Birmingham's finest independent record shop - The Polar Bear (http://www.myspace.com/polarbearrecords1)
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