Often we see events marketed to families which promote carnival rides, sugary and fatty foods and plastic take home toys as entertainment.  Other than strung out parents and children, broken toys, and an empty wallet, it’s difficult to see a lasting impression of these events – particularly a positive one.

As an alternative, those who attended the first festiValley in 2010 believe the Samford Valley Steiner School have got it right.  In August this year festiValley will again transform the leafy, natural bushland grounds of Brisbane’s Samford Valley Steiner School into a bustling marketplace of creative activities and entertainment.  “festiValley’s focus is on providing enriching experiences for the entire family – young children, teens and adults alike” enthuses festiValley Coordinator Danielle McIsaac.

Activities and experiences have been selected to expand creativity and knowledge; moulding a castle from clay, tie-dyeing a t-shirt, transforming a piece of silk into a painted masterpiece, felting a flower, building a creation from wood and nails, arranging a flower garland or rolling beeswax candles - there are so many ways to nurture the creative spirit.

There are also skills to master with a variety of workshops.  These include learning fire-twirling, African drumming, didgeridoo, yoga, biodynamic gardening and soccer skills with Brisbane Roar FC. Other activities include face-painting, puppet shows, riding on the eco-friendly, bike-powered merry-go-round,
getting a henna tattoo, riding a camel, climbing the rock wall or bouncing on the bungy trampoline.

Healthy and nutritious food choices were also an important feature when planning the event.  The cafe sells a selection of  home-baked, organic and gluten-free foods, with vegetarian and vegan options also available.

Refreshment stalls offer fair trade and organic tea and coffee and organic juices.  “As well as our own cafe, external caterers have been chosen for their healthy ingredients – scrumptious wood-fired pizzas, vegetarian curries and a Greek BBQ,” adds Danielle.

Local artisans and craftspeople will also be selling their unique creations at the art and craft market. This is the perfect opportunity to be inspired and find something lovingly created to take home or to give to another.

The day concludes with a free twilight concert featuring an array of talented artists performing scenes from a mythical tale with music, drama and surprises. This is the perfect end to what will be a special and uplifting day. Come along to nourish your soul at this enriching festival – where entertainment and creativity meet!

festiValley is held on Saturday 27 August, from noon to 7pm, in the grounds of Samford Valley Steiner School, Narrawa Drive, Wights Mountain.
Tel: 3430 9600.
www.samfordsteiner.qld.edu.au.