The High Barnet Summer Festival runs throughout June until Monday July 2. Making wide use of the local area from theatres to parks, the programme is packed full of entertainment, history and activities sure to acquaint residents old and new to all that Barnet has to offer.

All the world's a stage

This year’s big theatre performances include an open air production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream for the whole family in Oak Hill Park, on Sunday, June 17 at 3pm, and the must-see The Gambler.

A piece of physical theatre combining dance, music and drama, The Gambler, showing at the Bull Theatre on Saturday, June 2, has received excellent ratings from audience members. Theatre Re present this brand new piece written by Adam Taylor about an old man coming to terms with his life through his addiction to gambling.

Kids' fun

For children, Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny and their friends take over Oak Hill Park on Sunday, June 24 for classic tales including live music. Kids can also meet Babar the Elephant at the Spires Shopping centre on Saturday, June 23.

There’s a lot to be enjoyed as a family including the Open Garden and Miniature Railway with food, activities and free train rides on Sunday, June 24.

A family fun day will also take place at Ravenscroft Gardens with live music, games and much more on Sunday, July 1.

More music

If it’s music you’re after, how about an afternoon of picnicking to jazz on Hadley Green on Sunday, July 1?

For something a bit more upbeat there’s the Summer Soulstice DJs playing all day for you to dance to in aid of charity on Saturday, June 30.

If you like taking a more hands-on approach, brass and wind players have been invited to join the Barnet Band for an open rehearsal on Wednesday, June 20.

Walk tall

For the rambler in you there are a series of educational and entertaining walks including several history walks, an exploration into Dickens’ connections to the area is on Saturday, June 16, and a ghost walk is on Saturday, June 23.

The Barnet Countryside Centre’s open day is on Monday, June 25, and is also a good opportunity to take in some more natural surroundings.

With all that’s on offer, there’s no better way to spend your summer weekends whether it’s fun with the family or learning something new about the area.

The High Barnet Summer Festival takes place at various venues from Friday, June 1 until Monday, July 2. Details: www.barnetresidentsassociation.org.uk