This year’s Alton Towers celebration for International Angelman Day was nothing short of incredible. What began with just 12 families back in 2013 continues to grow into the largest iAD event in the UK and 2026 was another unforgettable chapter in that journey.
With the generous support of Spread Your Wings and FAST UK, families once again came together for a weekend full of laughter, connection and pure joy. Over 200 people joined us, creating a sea of blue across the park as our Angelman community celebrated together.
It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces returning, while also warmly welcoming families attending for the very first time. The magic of this weekend is always in the togetherness, knowing you’re surrounded by people who truly understand.
Entertainment this year was a real highlight! On both Friday and Saturday, Graham Lindley took on the DJ role, keeping everyone dancing, laughing and fully entertained. On Saturday evening a magician added an extra touch of wonder, leaving families spellbound and bringing even more excitement to the celebrations.
One of the most special additions to this year’s event was the incredible Tracey Allen from Summer Sky Photography. Travelling over three hours to be with us, Tracey generously gifted each Angelman family their own professional photograph. She captured the spirit of the weekend so beautifully, giving families a lasting memory of a truly special time together. We are so grateful for her warmth, patience and talent. She was the perfect person to be part of this event.
This year, FAST UK also made sure that siblings felt just as celebrated. Each brother and sister received their very own pocket hug, a small token to remind them how seen, valued and appreciated they are. Siblings play such an important role within Angelman families and it was incredibly special to recognise the amazing young people they are.
Once again, a huge thank you must go to our wonderful organisers Linda Holmes and Louise Prince who pour their heart and souls into this weekend every single year. Supported by their amazing families, their passion and dedication continue to make this event what it is today.
Our trustee Louise Prince played a key role in this year’s event. Louise went above and beyond behind the scenes, expertly managing the booking of rooms and liaising with the hotel, an absolutely major task that she handled brilliantly. Both Louise and our trustee Sarah Washbrook shared heartfelt words with the community, and Sarah provided an inspiring update on FAST UK’s work, explaining exactly where funds raised go and how they are helping to drive forward research and support for families. Their dedication was a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit of this community.
Most importantly, families once again had an amazing time, making memories in the park, sharing stories, dancing together, laughing together and simply enjoying being part of something so special.
To everyone who helped make this year’s International Angelman Day Alton Towers weekend possible, THANK YOU 💙
