FROM fossil hunting to burlesque, DJ lessons to beauty treatments – it’s all on offer for free at this year’s Bournemouth Family Festival.

The event, now in its second year, takes place at Meyrick Park on July 28 and organisers say there really is something for everyone.

“Last year it was the second biggest event to come out of Bournemouth,” said Julian Sandy, community engagement officer for Bournemouth Borough Council’s Early Years Service.

“Now it’s even bigger. We’ve got a lot more. We decided to make it as free as possible and we’ve asked every stall to put on a free children’s activity.

“We’re having an arena for events and we are trying to increase the stalls from 120 to 150. It can be self-sustainable if you do it right.”

The 2010 event was organised as a play day, youth festival and family information day, in support of the national playday campaign.

This year’s festival, organised in partnership with the Rotary Club of Westbourne, Crumbs Café and the YMCA, will be along the same lines – only bigger and better.

“We are highlighting all the young talent, frontline services and local businesses, but also promoting children’s right to play and putting children at the heart of the community,” explained Julian.

“It’s about promoting all the frontline services to really showcase what we’ve got to offer to families of all age groups.

“It’s the launch pad for the Big Society. This is why I want all these children’s and other services out there to book a stall.”

Exhibitors at the festival, which runs from 10am to 8pm, range from Rubyz cabaret bar to local radio station Fire FM, as well as the National Trust and a chain saw sculptor.

Visitors can also enjoy a land train, media machine, face painting, soft play, inflatable games and a selection of 1940s American trucks.

The main focus is on free fun, but Julian is keen to stress the information also on offer will be invaluable to parents and families.

“It’s highlighting everything that’s on in Bournemouth to be able to help families if they want help,” he said.

“For example the children’s centres. Not everybody knows they’re there and what they do. It’s not a typical fun day, there’s something for everybody, it doesn’t matter what age you are.

“I just want everybody to come together for this and really showcase what Bournemouth has to offer. It’s very exciting.”

Anyone wishing to join in the event, which will be opened by Sportacus from children’s TV favourite LazyTown, and offer a free activity to visitors, has until May 31 to book a stall.

For further details call Julian Sandy on 01202 456295 or email julian.sandy@bournemouth.gov.uk.