Families are invited to step back in time this February half-term as Fairytale Farm in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire welcomes back its popular prehistoric event, Once Upon a Dinosaur, running from Saturday 14th to Sunday 22nd February 2026.

Packed with hands-on activities, photo moments and larger-than-life characters, the event features life-sized dinosaurs, dancing dinosaurs, close-up encounters with dino hatchlings and juvenile dino puppets, and a full programme of themed trails, crafts and interactive experiences across the park.

New for 2026 is the “Prehistoric Sprint” theme, challenging visitors to discover which dinosaur species might win a race if they all lined up for a sprint. Guests can follow the Dinosaur Timeline, tackle Dino Trivia puzzles, and complete fun challenges along the Jurassic Trail while learning fascinating facts along the way.

Throughout the week, visitors can meet the Dino Trainer Ranger and his cheeky raptor hatchling, and say hello to Trixi the baby Triceratops, a new arrival for 2026. The event also includes the Dino Dig, where children can uncover fossils and become junior palaeontologists, plus creative sessions with Creation Station’s Dino Crafts.

And, of course, no dinosaur adventure would be complete without a party: families can dance with Darcey the T-Rex and learn the Dino Stomp at the Dino Disco.

Nick Laister, Founder of Fairytale Farm, said:
“Once Upon a Dinosaur is always a highlight of the year, and we’re thrilled to bring it back for February half-term with even more to see and do. From meeting our ranger and raptor hatchling to welcoming Trixi the baby Triceratops, it’s a week of big smiles, brilliant photos and genuinely hands-on learning - wrapped up in a fun family day out.”

Nick adds: "Dino fancy dress is encouraged, with children arriving in dinosaur-themed outfits receiving a sweet treat on arrival."

No special tickets are required—visitors simply book standard admission online for their chosen date.

Event details

Event: Once Upon a Dinosaur
Dates: Saturday 14th – Sunday 22nd February 2026
Venue: Fairytale Farm, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire (OX7 5QH)
Tickets: Standard admission (no special event ticket required)
Website: fairytalefarm.co.uk
Telephone: 01608 238014

ENDS

Notes for editors:

Photos for publication can be downloaded from here: https://we.tl/t-AgsBwJKJ6J

What’s included during Once Upon a Dinosaur (14–22 Feb 2026):

Dinosaur Timeline and Dino Trivia Trail

Life-sized dinosaurs in Dino Valley (photo opportunities)

Dino Dig fossil activity

Meet the Dino Trainer Ranger and raptor hatchling

Meet Trixi the baby Triceratops

Dance with Darcey the T-Rex and join the Dino Disco (learn the Dino Stomp)

Creation Station’s Dino Crafts

Prehistoric Sprint challenge and Jurassic Trail activities

Dino face painting available (additional charge)

About Fairytale Farm:
Fairytale Farm is a family attraction in Oxfordshire offering a magical experience for children of all abilities. With its interactive sensory experiences, themed trails, and seasonal events, the farm provides an enchanting day out for the whole family. The Farm has received multiple accolades, including TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and was a Finalist in the National Farm Attractions Network 'Farm Attraction of the Year' award 2024.

Related

Fairytale Farm
Farm
A group of people following the path at Fairytale Farm, with one girl in a wheelchair in front

We want all our visitors to have a great time. Fairytale Farm has been designed to put disabled people first.