The Harris is set to host an action-packed programme of activities, workshops and exhibitions this February half term.
Designed to entertain and educate children of all ages, the programme will run alongside family-friendly extras as the shop will be stocked with items designed for pocket money budgets, and the cafe will be serving special kids’ food and activity boxes.
Read on for a full run down of the programme. For timings and bookings, visit The Harris website.
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February: Creative Chemistry (Free)
Come and join the Royal Society of Chemistry for free science activities at The Harris. Discover the chemical sciences in Lancashire and take part in hands-on experiments including chromatography, rates of reaction, and polymers. There will also be opportunities to learn about careers in chemistry.
Monday 16 February: JuniorSTEM Lego and Coding Sessions (£8 per group of four)
Children can build fantastic Lego WeDo models and learn to program sensors, motors and lights to bring them to life. Led by qualified teachers, these hands-on workshops focus on creativity, problem-solving and teamwork.
Tuesday 17 February: Little Zoo to You (Sold Out)
Discover the wonderful world of wildlife with this mini mobile zoo. Children will meet insects, reptiles, birds and mammals in two already sold out sessions.
Wednesday 18 February: Mad Science Shows (£3)
Experience science like never before with jaw-dropping experiments that bring complex concepts to life. Join a Mission to Mars exploring how rockets launch, why satellites don’t crash into Earth, and how we can land safely on other planets.
Thursday 19 February: Planetarium Experience (£3)
Step into the WonderDome inflatable planetarium for a fully immersive cosmic journey. From planet formation to the birth and death of stars, these 45-minute shows transport visitors through space in an unforgettable experience.
Saturday 21 February: Chinese New Year Celebration (Free)
Featuring a lion dance, traditional Chinese dance performances, an impressive Chinese Gongfu demonstration by a national champion, and a face/mask changing act.
In addition to ticketed activities, visitors can explore a range of free displays including:
- The Harris Open: The new Harris exhibition opens at 1pm on Saturday 21 February. The popular open submission exhibition returns, inviting Preston-based artists to showcase their work in a celebration of local talent.
- LGBTQ+ History Month Trail: Explore the stories, histories and fabulousness of the LGBTQ+ community with a new trail for February
- Nostalgic Views of Preston: Local artist Edwin Williams’ remarkable collection of 33 recoloured historic photographs and seven watercolours documenting Preston’s past
- Hannah Sabapathy: A major commission exploring global links between South Asia and Britain’s textile industry
- Preston’s Caribbean Stories: Celebrating Preston’s Caribbean community and their contribution to the city over 50 years
Read more: The Harris Open returns to Preston in 2026 after five year hiatus
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