Things to Do This Easter in Southampton

On Sunday 6^th April, the city centre will be abuzz with runners eager to take on one of five races for the ABP Southampton Marathon. Whether you are taking part in one of the races or simply coming along to cheer runners on, it’s a great time to head out and enjoy the city.

In celebration of the marathon’s 10th anniversary, there will also be plenty of live music to enjoy with Music In The Marathon which will bring together 17 acts across seven locations. This is made possible by organisers of Music In The City who host the biggest free music festival in the city – also one not to miss this September. Learn more here.

At God’s House Tower, visitors of all ages can embark on a roar-some adventure with the latest exhibition, Hidden in Stone. Led by the Gostling Evolution and Palaeobiology Lab at the University of Southampton, this fascinating showcase explores shifting continents, changing climates, and the rich fossil heritage beneath your feet from across the South Coast.

Alongside fossils and dinosaur bone models, you’ll also encounter Project Extinction—a newly commissioned collaborative artwork by BA Fine Art students at Winchester School of Art, University of Southampton. This large-scale, flat-pack sculpture, shaped like a ceratosuchops dinosaur, invites you to peek inside and discover even more creative works by the students. Learn more here.

At IKEA, families can enjoy a range of fun and creative activities to celebrate the Easter season. On 7^th April, adults can take part in a special Spring Wreath-making workshop, where they’ll have the chance to craft their own decorative wreath to bring a touch of seasonal charm to their home.

For younger visitors, the Easter egg decorating sessions on 9^th April offer a chance to get creative. With various time slots available throughout the day, children can design and decorate their own Easter eggs, making for a colourful and hands-on activity.

The excitement continues with their Eggstravaganza Trail, running from 7^th – 20^th April. Families can explore the store to track down hidden eggs, with a chance to win a special Easter box at the end of the hunt.

For a memorable morning treat, families will also have a chance to enjoy an Easter breakfast with BJÖRN bear on 8^th, 10^th, 15^th and 17^th April. Families can enjoy a delicious breakfast alongside themed colouring and games, with the opportunity to meet BJÖRN and capture the moment with a photo.

To find out more about these Easter activities, visit IKEA Southampton’s event page here.

UK Shaolin is providing a fantastic opportunity for families to get active together over the Easter break. Families can sign up to workshops to learn martial arts, Sanda kickboxing, self-defence, and acrobatics in a fun and engaging environment. Find out more here.

Popworld Southampton is back with another hop-tastic Easter themed kids party, with an afternoon packed full of dancing, confetti drops, bubbles galore, games and some chocolate Easter egg giveaways. Rumour has it that the Easter bunny himself might even make an appearance. Find out more here.