2026: Summer of Elmer!
If you’re looking for colourful family adventures this summer, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant is making appearances all over the UK in exhibitions, sculpture trails, live appearances, festivals and family attractions. Here’s where you can find Elmer the patchwork elephant over the coming months…
Elmer at Wild Things: Animals in Children’s Books, The Lowry, Salford
18 July – 1 November 2026
Free (advance booking recommended)
Elmer features in Wild Things, The Lowry’s brand-new free exhibition celebrating animals in children’s books. Families can enjoy almost 100 original illustrations from beloved stories including Elmer, Dear Zoo and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, alongside interactive play spaces and storytelling. Better still, Elmer himself will be making special costume meet-and-greet appearances around the venue all summer!
https://www.thelowry.com/wild-things-bp6d
Elmer and Mr Benn: the magic of David McKee at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, Lymington
11 July – 6 September
Included with museum admission
Elmer joins a family-friendly exhibition at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, where visitors can explore original artwork and discover the much-loved stories created by David McKee. Interactive activities make it a great stop for younger visitors throughout the school holidays.
https://www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/current-exhibition/
Elmer & Friends at The Novium Museum, Chichester
April – September 2026
From £3 per ticket
The Novium Museum is welcoming families with a colourful Elmer-themed exhibition featuring original illustrations, creative activities and opportunities to discover the story behind one of Britain’s best-loved picture book characters. With interactive elements, crafting stations and a dress up and play area!
https://www.thenovium.org/article/40549/Elmer-and-Friends-The-Colourful-World-of-David-McKee
Elmer’s Art Parade Sculpture Trail, Wild in Art, Milton Keynes town centre
11 July – 31 August 2026
Free
Milton Keynes becomes an open-air gallery as dozens of giant Elmer sculptures, each uniquely designed by artists, appear across the city centre. Created by Wild in Art, the trail encourages families to explore while celebrating creativity, friendship and inclusion. Download the trail map and see how many colourful elephants you can find. Complete the trail and get an exclusive offer for nearby Gulliver’s theme park! Fully accessible and inclusive for all families.
https://wildinart.co.uk/events/elmer-milton-keynes/
Elmer at Gloworm Festival, Thoresbury Park,
7 – 9 August 2026
Festival ticket required
Festival-goers can meet Elmer at Gloworm Festival, where the much-loved patchwork elephant will be making costume appearances throughout the weekend. Visit the Elmer tent for crafting sessions, story times, meet-and-greets with the Elmer costume, competitions, and a chance to take home your own Elmer souvenir. Alongside live entertainment, music, activities and family workshops, little fans will have opportunities to meet Elmer and capture some unforgettable photos.
https://glowormfestival.co.uk/
Elmer’s Jumping Pillows at Gulliver’s Dino & Farm Park, Milton Keynes
Throughout the summer holidays; costume appearances 18 July to 6 September 2026
Included with park admission
Children can bounce, play and meet Elmer at Gulliver’s giant Jumping Pillows! With daily costume appearances all summer.
https://www.dinoandfarmpark.co.uk/elmer-the-patchwork-elephant/
Elmer Hide & Seek Adventure Trail
Looking for something different to do this summer? At multiple locations, follow the clues as you help find Elmer find his friends in this interactive Hide & Seek adventure trail by augmented reality specialists High Street Safari. Families solve puzzles, spot hidden elephants and enjoy outdoor fun inspired by David McKee’s classic stories – don’t forget to download your certificate and prize at the end of the trail!
Elmer Hide & Seek Adventure Trail at Weston Park, Shropshire
11 July – 26 September
Included with admission
Set within 1000 acres of Capability Brown parkland, Weston Park is a remarkable House and gardens.
https://weston-park.com/elmer-hide-seek-adventure-trail/
Elmer Hide & Seek Adventure Trail at Oxhey Woods Local Nature Reserve, Hertfordshire
29 July – 26 August
Free to enter
At almost 100 hectares, Oxhey Woods is the largest Local Nature Reserve (LNR) in the Three Rivers District, Hertfordshire.
https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/services/leisure-parks-culture/play/elmer-hide-and-seek
Elmer Hide & Seek Adventure Trail at Prospect Park, Reading
25 July – 6 September
Free to enter
The Ranger Station at Prospect Park is a destination for activities, entertainment and learning for families and children from across Reading and beyond. The trail starts from the Ranger Station from the Ranger Station, with a sticker prize available whilst stocks last.
Elmer Hide & Seek Adventure Trail at Saffron Walden, Essex
1 August – 31 August
Free to enter