The West End Festival kicks off this Sunday 14 June 2009 with various stages in Kelvingrove Park, and a Mardi Gras parade from Kelvin Way into the Park at 3pm. There will be also be food and drink stalls, kiddy rides, BBQs, and Clydesdale Horses rides for the more adventurous tots amongst you.

There's a Children's Book Festival taking place at Gilmorehill G12, including the writer/illustrator Ross Collins on Tuesday 16th at 1.15pm, the author Pippa Goodheart on Thursday 18th June at 10.30am and 1.15pm. Visit the Gilmorehill website for more kidlit events.

Glasgow Libraries Young People's team are hosting stories and craft events children aged 3 to 7 at Partick Library and Hillhead Library (both Sat 20 June at 11.30am, free). For younger children, head along to Hillhead Library on Sat 27 June at 10am for Boogie Babies, a creative dance class for children aged 0-3. 3-5-yr-olds can enjoy Mini Movers on Sat 27 June at 11am, a class exploring movement, rhythm, music and storytelling. Boogie Babies and Mini Movers cost £3/session.

There will be an outdoor family-friendly classical concert on Saturday 27 June at 1pm in the adorable children's garden with the Botanic Gardens. A perfect day out if the weather is good, especially if you bring a rug and a picnic. No fee, but donations to support the Children's Garden appreciated.

If you fancy taking the buggy out for a stroll, why not book on to one the Friends of Glasgow West Walks, and learn a thing or two about the history of the West End. On Wednesday 24 June at 2pm, there's a tour of Alexander Greek Thomson's wonderful buildings in the West End. Tickets £6.50 from Barrett's newsagent on Byres Road.

Last but not least, there's the Mela Festival on Sunday 21 June in Kelvingrove Park, a multicultural festival celebrating the ethnic diversity of Scotland. Music, dance, interactive arts, and a dedicated kids tent.

Check out the West End Festival website for the rest of the festival's events.