Children’s charity Charlie House is counting down the days to their family-friendly event right in the heart of the city centre.
From Thursday 7 to Sunday 10 August, Union Terrace Gardens will be bouncing as children and families help raise vital funds for Charlie House.
Joining the line-up of bouncy castles and slides, inflatable activities, and crowd-pleaser Human Hungry Hippos will be face painters, hair braiding and glitter tattoo artists, plus science champions TechFest and the ever-popular Gaming Experience Van for those video game enthusiasts out there.
This year’s family fun event will also feature local food and drink favourites including Aberdam loaded fries, Little Miss Whippy ice cream, and Little Molly’s Cheesecakes to satisfy even the hungriest of bouncers, along with a range of local vendors offering toys, games and gifts galore.
Charlie Dog and fundraiser Louise Bone
Gates to the Big Bounce will open to the public across from His Majesty’s Theatre on Thursday and Friday from 11:30am to 5:00pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Entry to the event space is free, with tickets and wristbands on sale to join in with the fun.
While Big Bounce is all about fun and excitement, Charlie House is committed to making the event accessible for everyone. As part of the programme, a dedicated relaxed session will take place on the Friday from 10:00am to 11:30am. This session is specially designed to welcome children, young people and families who may benefit from a calmer environment, including those with sensory sensitivities or additional support needs.
Ollie Middleton, community & events manager, comments: “Accessible activities are important to us at Charlie House, and we are hosting a dedicated Relaxed Big Bounce Session on the morning of Friday 8 August, from 10:00am to 11:30am.
“This quieter session is designed to welcome children, young people and families who may benefit from a calmer environment, including those with sensory sensitivities or additional support needs.
“The event space will be quieter with fewer visitors to help create a more relaxed atmosphere. Music and amplified sounds will be reduced, lighting will be lowered, and flashing lights minimised wherever possible.”
Familes gather to bounce in Union Terrace Gardens
Ollie adds: “Everyone is welcome, though we kindly ask visitors to be mindful that this time is intended to support those who may need a more relaxed space. No booking is needed for the Relaxed Session, simply arrive at the entrance by His Majesty’s Theatre.”
The event will include a dedicated relaxed area throughout all four days for those who need to take a break and enjoy a little quiet time.
The four-day event attracted more than 6,000 attendees in 2024, and this year hopes to welcome even more bouncers keen to have fun and help local children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. Every penny raised through ticket sales helps provide accessible activities for children and families supported by the charity.
Big Bounce 2025 is proudly sponsored by Aberdeen Inspired and Dandara Living.
To plan your Big Bounce visit: https://www.charliehouse.org.uk/events/big-bounce