Local Wildlife Trust brings together the region's conservation charities and organisations to host a wild day out on Saturday 8 July in Cassiobury Park, with fun activities, opportunities to learn about wildlife, plus how everyone can play their part in protecting it.

Getting up close to bats, going on a family bird walk, finding out snakes really aren’t that slippery or being spun a wild story are just some of the things that visitors to Wildfest 2023 can look forward to.

The event is organised by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, with the support of the many local groups and organisations working for wildlife across the region. The family-friendly day out presents an opportunity to meet conservation experts and volunteers, explore the local wildlife in and around Cassiobury Park, learn about what is going on locally and find out how to get involved.  The event is sponsored by Affinity Water.

Throughout the day, there will be many free activities to take part in, such as, the Animal Olympics, where visitors can discover the amazing talents of wildlife and learn more about some of nature’s record breakers. Plus, those manning the many information stands will be able to share their knowledge of the bats, amphibians and reptiles that call Hertfordshire home, with the chance to see some of these at close range. Those feeling active will be able to explore the wildlife within Cassiobury Park, for example, guided butterfly walks with Butterfly Conservation and bird walks with RSPB Watford will uncover some of the park’s many winged visitors and residents. There will also be crafts, storytelling and opportunities to learn how to protect local species.

Rachel Rogers, Engagement Coordinator at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust said:

“We’re delighted to bring Wildfest 2023 to Watford, following the success of the festival in St Albans last year. It’s a great opportunity for families to get outdoors and connect with nature, to enjoy the great variety of wildlife that we have locally and meet some of the amazing local groups that protect wildlife and wild places. We hope that everyone will enjoy taking part in the free activities running throughout the day and be inspired to do what they can to look after the natural world, which in turn will help us in the fight against climate change.

“Wildfest is also part of a nationwide celebration in July to mark The Wildlife Trust’s Nextdoor Nature project, which bring communities together across the UK to help nature flourish where people live and work.”

Dave Wills, Chair of HertsARG (Amphibian and Reptile Group) said:

“HertsARG are excited to be involved in another Wildfest. Our members will be on hand to showcase the amphibians and reptiles of Hertfordshire and to answer questions. We will also be keen to hear of sightings from members of the public!”

Rebecca Froud, Director of Customer Experience at Affinity Water said:

“Affinity Water are proud to sponsor Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust’s Wildfest 2023, held in Cassiobury Park, Watford. We’re keen to celebrate the fantastic local organisations that work to protect wildlife and nature in the region. As a company we’re supporting our customers to reduce their water usage through our Save Our Streams campaign, which will help us to leave more water in the environment, including the regions rare chalk streams, protecting the wildlife that they support.”

Wildfest will be held on the grass area between The Hub and Gade Avenue car park in Cassiobury Park on 8 July, from 10am -4pm, with activities happening all over the park and picnics welcome. Find out more about the event by visiting https://www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/events/wildfest-2023