Families, local residents, and wildlife enthusiasts are invited to join a fun-filled 24 hours of coastal exploration, wildlife discovery and hands-on activities at The Rock Pool Project’s Community BioBlitz Festival.
Taking place at Porthpean Outdoor Centre, near St Austell, from 10am on Saturday 29 to 10 am on Sunday 30 August 2026, the free festival will bring people of all ages together to explore, record and celebrate the incredible biodiversity of Cornwall’s coastline. With opportunities to discover wildlife, try new activities, meet local nature groups and enjoy time outdoors, the festival offers something for everyone, from first-time explorers to experienced naturalists.
Hosted by The Rock Pool Project in partnership with the Marine Biological Association, the Community BioBlitz Festival forms part of the Big Rock Pool Challenge – a nationwide citizen science programme encouraging people to record coastal wildlife and contribute valuable biodiversity data to support marine research and conservation.
The Community BioBlitz Festival forms part of the Big Rock Pool Challenge – a nationwide citizen science programme that contributes valuable biodiversity data to scientific research. c. Marine Biological Association
Unlike a traditional rock pooling event, the Community BioBlitz Festival will explore wildlife across a wide range of coastal habitats. Participants will help record everything from marine life and seabirds to insects, wildflowers and coastal plants, creating a snapshot of Cornwall’s rich coastal biodiversity over a single 24-hour period.
Alongside wildlife recording, visitors can enjoy a programme of family-friendly activities designed to help people connect with nature. From rock pooling and wildlife spotting to nature walks, snorkelling, creative activities, games and nature-themed crafts, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn, explore and have fun outdoors. As the sun goes down, visitors can also look forward to an evening of talks, discussions and a nature-themed film screening, with the full timetable to be announced ahead of the event.
The festival is free to attend thanks to generous support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the ScottishPower Foundation, although some optional activities and on-site accommodation are available for an additional charge.
Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee, ScottishPower Foundation, said: ”Our environment, including coastal biodiversity, is under real pressure and we know that connecting people directly with nature is one of the most powerful ways to inspire action to protect it. The Rock Pool Project’s Community BioBlitz Festival does exactly that by bringing families and communities together to explore Cornwall’s incredible coastline while contributing to genuine scientific research. We’re incredibly proud to support them and to help make this experience free and accessible for everyone.”
Whether you are discovering coastal wildlife for the first time, looking for a family day out, or are an experienced wildlife recorder keen to contribute to science, everyone is welcome.
The 24-hour festival includes:
- A coastal BioBlitz across multiple habitats, including a unique night-time rock pool survey
- Wildlife walks, spotting activities and coastal exploration
- Rock pooling and snorkelling opportunities
- Species identification sessions and citizen science activities
- Family-friendly nature games, activities and crafts
- A community hub showcasing local environmental organisations
- Optional camping for those wishing to experience the full 24-hour event.
Laura Coles, Deputy CEO of The Rock Pool Project, said:
“The Community BioBlitz Festival is all about bringing people together to discover the amazing wildlife on our doorstep while contributing to genuine scientific research. Whether you come along for a few hours or stay for the whole weekend, there are so many ways to get involved – from rock pooling and wildlife walks to family activities and species recording. Every observation helps us to understand Cornwall’s coastal biodiversity and inspires more people to care for these special places.”
Visitors are welcome to attend for the full 24 hours or simply drop in for part of the festival. Camping is available to book for those who would like to make the most of the event and stay overnight.
For more information and to book your free tickets, click here.
c. Marine Biological Association.
