Cumbria School Games County Festival 2026
September 10, 2026
Excitement is building across the county as we prepare to host our biggest event of the year! More than 1000 children and young people are ready to come together for the 2026 Cumbria School Games, a countywide celebration of physical activity, movement, and teamwork.
The event was originally scheduled to take place in June but was postponed due to exceptionally hot weather and concerns for the health and wellbeing of participants, staff and volunteers.
The rescheduled event will now take place on Thursday 17 September 2026 in Carlisle at Sheepmount Athletics Stadium, Bitts Park and The Sands Centre.
This vibrant event will bring pupils from Years 3 to 8 together for a full day of positive, inclusive, energising activity designed to inspire, engage, and connect.
The programme is packed with a wide range of fun, non-competitive activities including golf, dance, dodgeball, and athletics. There’ll also be opportunities to try a variety of multi-skills challenges such as archery, obstacle courses, trail races, and crossbow. This year there are two events dedicated for children in years 5-8 to help support with the transition from primary to secondary school.
The Cumbria School Games isn’t about winning - it’s about getting involved, having fun, and enjoying the benefits of being active with others. Whether trying something new or building confidence, the day supports young people’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing in a positive, inclusive, uplifting environment.
The festival kicks off with an energising opening ceremony at Sheepmount Athletics Stadium hosted by BBC Radio Cumbria.
Local sporting hero David King, an eight-time British national champion in pair skating - will be there to welcome everyone and share messages of encouragement.
More than 100 Young Leaders from primary and secondary schools will take on important roles throughout the day. Trained to guide activities and support their peers, they’ll help bring the event to life - promoting values like respect, teamwork, determination, honesty, and self-belief.
The Cumbria School Games are organised by Active Cumbria in collaboration with schools, School Games Organisers, local clubs, sport governing bodies, and community partners.
Kirsty Williamson, Active Cumbria Development Officer and organiser of Cumbria School Games said: "The Cumbria School Games is a true celebration of getting active in a fun and inclusive way.
"It brings children and young people together from all corners of the county to try something new, build confidence, and experience the joy of movement as part of something bigger.
"Whilst we were disappointed to postpone the event in June because of the extremely hot weather, the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved had to come first.
"We are delighted that the event has been rescheduled for 17 September and can't wait to welcome all the children and young people for a truly enjoyable day."
As part of Active Cumbria’s commitment to reducing plastic waste through the national ‘Kick Out Plastic in Sport’ campaign, every participant will receive a reusable water bottle, with refill stations available throughout the day. Event materials and supplies have also been carefully chosen with sustainability at the forefront.