DaFest 25 is returning this summer, promising an even bigger and better celebration for families and, in particular, for dads.
Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, this one-of-a-kind free festival is set to take place once again at Comber Parkway Pitches on Saturday 14 June 2025.
The festival is dedicated to honouring fatherhood while bringing families together for a day filled with laughter, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.
It is organised by charity DadBodsNI, a group that encourages dads to connect via social media and weekly walks to share parenting tips, make friends and improve their physical and mental health. The event is proudly supported by various local and national organisations, including the Asda Foundation, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Active Parents NI and Bespoke Fire Safety.
With activities designed to appeal to all ages, this year’s event will include live music from local musicians, sports challenges, food stalls, fire service demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for dads to shine.
Alan Tweedie, the festival’s main organiser, expressed his excitement about the event’s return:
“Last year’s festival was a phenomenal success, with families coming together to celebrate fatherhood in such a heartwarming way. We saw dads stepping up in for a tug-of-war, trying out firefighter outfits, doing their best dad dancing and just embracing the joy of family time. This year, we are building on that energy and creating even more magical moments.”
The festival, which is completely free, will feature a special Dad Appreciation Zone, where children can create personalised messages for their fathers, and a host of local bands providing live entertainment throughout the day.
Community groups have also rallied behind the event, with stalls from Ulster Wildlife, Melted Parents, Glitter & Glow, and Dylan’s Starlight Trust as well as local businesses selling toys, trinkets, arts, crafts, prints and more.
Alan Tweedie added:
“Fatherhood plays such a crucial role in family life, and this festival is all about giving dads the recognition they deserve. Whether you are a dad, stepdad, grandad, or a father figure, this day is for you and your family. We cannot wait to see families coming together again for another unforgettable experience.”
DaFest 25 is expected to draw even larger crowds than last year and there is still time to sponsor the event to help create an even better festival and give back to the community.
There are a range of sponsorship packages available to suit different sizes of businesses.
For more details visit contact DadBodsNI via their Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/dadbods.ni/ or by email to general@dadbodsni.com