Children: THINGS TO DO IN LONDON...AND BEYOND

Finsbury Park Carnival, Fonthill Rd & Lennox Rd, Islington, N1 (0171-477 3339) today 1pm-6.30pm, free

This is not a "couple of old lorries and a troop of majorettes"-type carnival - organisers Zap Productions promise "the best of carnival arts from around the world". There are street performers and live music all afternoon plus two carnival processions with colourful costumes, bands and dancers at 1.30pm and 6pm.

The Spitalfield's Show, Spitalfield's Market, Brushfield St, E1 (0171-375 0441) tomorrow, noon-5pm, free

Spitalfields is a great place to mooch around with the kids on a wet Sunday (it's indoors) and this annual horticultural show provides even more things to look at including displays of fruit and veg, flowers and crafts. Children's competitions include the best "edible necklace" and the best "face made from fruit or vegetables". Call the number above for entry details. There will also be loads of food stalls, community group stalls and organic produce on sale.

Horseman's Sunday, outside St John's Church, Hyde Park Crescent, W1 (0171-262 3791), tomorrow, noon, free

A rather surreal experience takes place near Hyde Park tomorrow when a vicar on horseback conducts this 30th annual church service. Dozens of horses and riders are expected to take part. Those on two legs are also welcome and afterwards children can go up and get a closer look at the ponies.

... AND BEYOND

Birds' House DIY Day

Newtown, Isle of Wight (01983 741020) tomorrow, 2pm, free. Meet at the Old Town Hall carpark

They say "DIY" is the new rock 'n' roll, so how about spending the afternoon making a designer winter residence for our feathered friends? Wardens from the National Trust will be showing children how to make wooden nesting boxes. There is no need to book in advance and materials are provided free, although parents are asked to give a donation towards the cost of boxes taken home.

Donkey Show

Home Farm, Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Nr Royston, Cambridge (01223 207257) tomorrow, 10.30am-5pm, pounds 4.20 adults, pounds 2.50 children. Under 3s free and National Trust members half-price.

Dozens of donkeys as well as a number of Shetland ponies will be taking part in races and parades at this rare-breeds farm on Sunday. The farm also has a children's adventure playground, a tiny tots' play area and a children's corner with mice, chicks and other cute cuddly creatures.