Chester Zoo is hosting a free festival this September.

Featuring two days of music and community-based conservation, Nature Fest will take place on September 13 and 14.

Set in the zoo's nature reserve, there will be hands-on activities, workshops, talks and performances - including the interactive Hedgehog Hideaway adventure, which teaches participants how to make their gardens more hedgehog friendly.

Nature Fest is open to anyone and features activities for all ages, taking place from 11.30am to 4.30pm.

"Now in its ninth year, the event has evolved from a small gathering into a major community-driven festival," said Christopher Ablett, community volunteer coordinator.

"Join us for den building, face painting, nature-themed games, drumming and dance workshops in the creative corner and storytelling sessions and wildlife-themed crafts.

"The heart of the festival remains the same: connecting people with nature and empowering them to protect it." 

This year's event is part of Chester Zoo's Networks for Nature initiative, which recently received a £4 million boost from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to expand its community-led conservation work across the UK.

Nature Fest aims to provide opportunities for people to get practically involved in UK wildlife conservation and showcase biodiversity work at the zoo. 

Ruby Merriman, estate biodiversity manager, added: "Chester Zoo's nature reserve is open to people all year round, but NatureFest is a chance to shine a spotlight on this vital part of the zoo.

"The nature reserve is an important haven for British wildlife and offers the opportunity to see plants and animals in their natural habitat. It is also part of our pledge to manage 30% of the zoo estate for biodiversity by 2030. 

"There are real, documented benefits to spending time in nature, both for people and nature itself. It boosts people's mental and physical health and encourages understanding of and engagement with the natural world.

"As one of the most nature-depleted countries on earth, British wildlife needs just as much support as species abroad, and NatureFest offers a way for aspiring conservationists to learn how to get involved."

There are also opportunities to take on conservation volunteering tasks like habitat restoration, take part in interactive wildlife talks at the Picnic Patch, and blend art, music and nature.

The Nature Reserve is located at the far end of Chester Zoo car park and parking is free.

You do not need to book - just turn up on the day.