A free festival celebrating Cheshire’s wildlife and helping people connect with nature is returning for its 10th anniversary – with organisers promising its biggest event yet.
Nature Fest will take place at Chester Zoo’s nature reserve on 12 and 13 September, with around 4,000 people expected to attend across the weekend.
The 2026 festival will explore the relationship between nature and wellbeing, with a host of new activities designed to help visitors experience the benefits of connecting with the natural world.
Festivalgoers can take part in animal yoga sessions, relax in a Zen Den and explore an interactive nature adventure based around the five pathways to nature connection, travelling through tunnels and even through a tree along the way.
There will also be live music, puppetry, crafts, workshops and talks, alongside opportunities to learn more about how conservationists work to protect wildlife.
A range of nature organisations and community groups will be represented throughout the weekend, while experts will offer talks, advice and practical tips on connecting with and supporting the natural world.
Jenny Mutch, Head of Conservation Education & Engagement, said:
“Nature Fest started as a small gathering ten years ago, and now it has become something much bigger. For our 10th anniversary, we’re exploring how human wellbeing and wildlife can support each other, and we are looking forward to helping more people connect to the natural world.
“There will be food, music, puppetry and plenty of opportunity to learn about conservation, discover how nature can benefit our wellbeing, and find out how we can benefit nature in return. And, because it’s September, we’ve made sure the activities are weatherproof! It will be fun, whether it rains or the sun shines.”
The zoo’s schools team will also host wildlife-friendly gardening sessions, helping visitors discover simple ways to make their own outdoor spaces better for nature.
Organisers have also teamed up with Outside Lives Ltd to give festival goers the chance to build, make and play, with activities including crazy golf, den building and willow weaving.
Chris Ablett, Community Volunteer Assistant Manager, said:
“We’re hoping our 10th Nature Fest will be the biggest yet. Chester Zoo is well known for supporting conservation across the world but protecting nature here in the UK is just as important.
“We want people to know there are simple things they can do to help wildlife at home, and Nature Fest is a great way to link up with people and learn new skills you can put into practice in your community, all while enjoying a great day out.”
Chester Zoo’s nature reserve is located at the far end of the zoo’s main visitor car park.
Nature Fest is free to attend, parking is free and no booking is required.
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