What’s on in Exeter this Half-Term? Family events, workshops and theatre happening now

Families across Exeter are making the most of half-term, with a packed programme of creative workshops, live performances and free city-centre events taking place. 

From hands-on art sessions and animated film screenings to brass bands in Princesshay and family theatre at the Northcott, there is plenty happening in the city for children of all ages.

At Exeter Phoenix on Gandy Street, half-term continues with a mix of family-friendly film and practical workshops.

The Phoenix is also screening Little Amélie (PG), an Oscar-nominated animated feature set in late 1960s Japan. Today’s screenings take place at 11:00 a.m. in English dub and at 1:00 p.m. in French with English subtitles. 

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Further screenings run tomorrow, Thursday February 19, at 1pm. Tickets are £9, with concessions available for members, students and under-25s.

Tomorrow morning, Thursday February 19, families can also join a Botanical Drawing workshop from 10.30am to 1pm, designed for all ages. 

Later in the week, on Saturday February 21, a Willow Weaving session invites families to work together to create their own notice board using natural materials.

In the city centre, Exeter Library is encouraging residents to show their support as Devon County Council’s public consultation on library services approaches its closing date on Sunday.

On Thursday February 19 from 1pm to 2pm, library staff and supporters gather in Bedford Square in Princesshay for a free drop-in event titled Make Some Noise for the Library. 

The event features performances from the Exeter University Brass Ensemble and “Fischo Disco” by Above Bounds Theatre Co, alongside leaflets and awareness-raising activities.

Organisers stress that the event is a celebration rather than a protest, aimed at highlighting the work of Libraries Unlimited and the services offered at Exeter Library.

Inside the library itself throughout half-term, families can take part in a Character Trail around the Children’s Library, access games consoles, enjoy colouring activities and, of course, browse books.

On Stocker Road, Exeter Northcott Theatre is staging Cinderella – Ice Cream Seller, a family musical running today and tomorrow.

The production reimagines the classic fairy tale, telling the story of Cinderella as a once-humble ice cream maker who builds her own thriving empire. 

The show is aimed at family audiences and forms part of the Northcott’s half-term programme, with further family productions scheduled for the Easter holidays.

With half-term costs a concern for many households, the range of free and ticketed options across Exeter offers families flexibility. 

Free events such as the Princesshay library celebration and activities within Exeter Library sit alongside paid workshops and theatre productions, allowing parents to tailor plans to suit both interests and budgets.

As the week continues, city venues report strong interest in children’s events, with some ticketed sessions already selling out. 

Families planning to attend workshops or screenings are advised to book in advance where possible.

For Exeter parents and carers looking for ideas today and over the coming days, the message is clear: whether it’s sculpting a monster, watching animated cinema, weaving willow or dancing to a brass band in Bedford Square, there is still plenty happening across the city this half-term.