The free kids events to get stuck into at Taste of Grampian 2024

Food and drink fans of all ages will be kept entertained at the north-east’s favourite indoor foodie experience (Taste of Grampian) this year.

Next Saturday (June 1), state-of-the-art Dyce venue P&J Live will play host to the one-day event – running from 10am to 5pm – for the third consecutive year.

Crowd of people at Taste of Grampian 2023. — Taste of Grampian 2024 takes place next weekend. Image: Darrell Benns/DC Thomson

There are celebrity and local chef cooking demonstrations taking place at various points throughout the day, along with a host of food and drink stalls, a crafters area, tastings, live music, and much more.

But today we’re focusing on the events and attractions for the kids to get stuck into at Taste of Grampian 2024. With those under 12 getting free access, it makes for an excellent day out.

1) Percy Pig and Colin the Caterpillar spin to win

The title sponsor for this year’s Taste of Grampian is Marks and Spencer.

Banner for Taste of Grampian.

The company has pulled out all the stops to ensure there’s a feast of activities at every corner.

A Percy Pig and Colin the Caterpillar spin to win is among their attractions.

Here, everyone’s a winner with bronze, silver and gold prizes up for grabs – ranging from Percy Pig sweets to a Colin the Caterpillar bag pack filled with caterpillar sweets.

Percy Pig and Colin the Caterpillar treats. Image: Shutterstock

2) Beano’s Gnasher Trail

There will be a Beano’s Gnasher Trail held in the main arena, too.

Everyone’s favourite hound will be hiding around the space causing mischief. Families are invited to follow the trail to find him and complete the comic-strip-themed trail sheet.

If you complete the trail, you can collect a free 2024 Beano Annual from the P&J stand (E34).

Eventgoers enjoying the kids zone at last year's Taste of Grampian. — Eventgoers enjoying the kids zone at last year’s event. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson

3) Face painting, glitter tattoos and balloon modelling

Looking to brighten up your little one’s day with colour and sparkle? Well, you’ll have to head to the face painting and glitter tattoo stations.

From rainbows, flowers and butterflies to animal and superhero inspired designs, there’s something to suit all.

Oh, and I can’t forget to mention the balloon modeller who will be adding balloon twisting fun to this year’s Taste of Grampian.

Young girl gets face painted at last year's TOG. — There will be face painting on offer. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson

4) Games in the Marks and Spencer area

Back to Marks and Spencer, the title sponsor will also be pulling together an interactive area incorporating three kid’s games.

Cow-tracing challenge at Marks and Spencer's interactive game area for kids. — MOOOOOOVE carefully. Note: This image is not an exact replica of what will be at Taste of Grampian. Image: Supplied by Marks and Spencer

Games include the cow-tracing challenge of ‘MOOOOOOVE carefully’, ‘Get Your Free Range Eggs in One Basket’, and fish ‘easy as 1, 2, omega 3’.

M&S's Get Your Free Range Eggs in One Basket game. — Will you be trying the Get Your Free Range Eggs in One Basket game? Note: This image is not an exact replica of what will be at Taste of Grampian. Image: Supplied by Marks and Spencer

5) Bouncy castle

The bouncy castle is sure to keep your kids occupied for a while.

Not only that, but it’ll prove great exercise for burning off any excess energy they may have from the sweet treats they’ve tucked into from the food and drink exhibitors.

6) Meet Percy Pig and Colin the Caterpillar

Last but certainly not least, eventgoers of all ages (not just the kids) are sure to be excited by our ‘special guests’ at Taste of Grampian 2024 – Percy Pig and Colin the Caterpillar.

The two characters will be roaming the main arena hall throughout the day, and will be delighted to take a selfie or two with you.