The non-stop rain almost washed out the first day of the Giant Family Festival, held in the Hidden Gardens last month.

Most of the activities had to be rescheduled for the following day. Fortunately, the rain had stopped by then so the full festival got underway.

The event was the culmination of a six-week arts project for children from 3-11 years and organised by Giant - a centre for inclusive arts. Held at Govanhill Neighbourhood Centre, the summer holiday activities had the young people designing art works based on the theme of the Hidden Gardens.

The art works were on display in the Albert Drive venue and featured a giant lady bird and a butterfly among other things. There was story telling, West African Drum classes, badge making and Indian fusion food to keep everyone happy.

Caitlin Gillespie (9), from Mount Florida who had been attending the Giant workshops in their Saltmarket studios for the past three years said, ‘Today has been really great fun. I enjoyed making the badges.’

Daniel Letden, (7), who was busy sampling the lamb kebabs which he helped to make, commented, ‘These are really tasty! Probably the best I have ever tasted.’

Maria McCavana, Giant’s Visual Arts Director said, ‘The classes were well attended with over 25 children taking part throughout the six weeks. Some children came up with quite imaginative ideas and these are on display.’ Christine Muir, another of the organisers, added, ‘Despite the torrential rain on the first day we are really pleased with the turnout. Both the children and their parents have had a wonderful time.’