Mopsy, Flopsy, Cottontail and Peter might seem to belong to a bygone age, but Beatrix Potter's animal antics are still popular among younger readers. The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness on Windermere (01539 488444) is 10 years old this year and an exhibition of Royal Ballet costumes forms part of its anniversary celebrations. It costs £3.50 for adults and £2.00 for children.

For something a little more laid-back than the Notting Hill Carnival, try the Arundel Festival in West Sussex. It runs until 2 September with street theatre, open-air Macbeth, puppet shows and a whole range of concerts. (Tel: 01903 883474)

There is a Sing-Along-A-Sound of Music at Kenwood House today. Subtitles appear on screen for all the song lyrics and the audience is encouraged to sing along and dress in character. Kenwood, Hampstead Lane, London NW3, 7.30pm. Phone 020 7413 1443 or 020 7420 0220 for tickets, priced £14.50 adults, £12.50 concessions, subject to a booking fee.

Carbolic soap, dirty collars and mangles; it was all fun and games in Wales a century ago. The Museum of Welsh Life in St Fagans brings it all to life, but without the blood, sweat and tears. On Grandma's Wash Day, everyone is invited to have a go at archaic methods of keeping miners' clothes clean. Events take place throughout the day. Open 10am to 5pm, seven days a week. Free. Call 029 2057 3500 for more information.