The lovely folk at Alpkit just emailed me asking if I could help them spread the word about their fun Big Shakeout weekend on 12-14 October. What’s that? Good question…

Simply put, it’s a chance for a great social where you can go off and do your own thing during the day, or sign up to one of the courses. Then get together in the evening for drinks, food, films, talks and live music.

Big Shakeout is designed as a weekend of adventure and entertainment, for beginners, families and experts alike. Simply use it as a base to explore the delights of the Peak District – whether it’s your favourite activity, an exciting course or simply a mellow days walking in the Peak District. Then head back to the Thornbridge campground, grab a meal and a beer from the bar and into the evening the site will be transformed into an intimate and atmospheric venue for live music, toasting marshmallows, watching films, telling tall stories about the day’s activities, making big plans and new friends. If you choose to stay onsite then the festivals campground area will buzz with free on site activities including everything from circus skills to bushcrafting, including plenty to keep the kids entertained.

Adult-45, Under 16-20, Under 3 Free. Includes onsite camping, all evening entertainment, The Alpkit Saturday evening meal and access to a host of free workshops.

You don’t have to sign up for one of the courses, but if while you were there you want to try something new or are looking to improve existing skills, there are a range of courses in the School of Adventure you can sign up to. These on and off site sessions cover various activities from mountain bike skills to the mini adventurer, although places have been filling up. What might be of special interest may be the weekend School of Adventure Film and Photography course led by Alex Ekins and Dom Bush, which includes the weekend ticket!

Sorry if it’s a bit waffly!

There’s a trailer video from last years event here: