One of the most popular events for children in Southland is back for another year, with organisers already expecting a bumper turnout.

The ILT Kidzone Festival features over 160 different activities for children of all ages, taking over the senior campus of James Hargest College in Invercargill for the next six days.

The theme this year revolves around 'circus fun', with many of the activities showcasing a circus theme.

Some of the activities include woodcraft, bouncy castles, puddle jumpers and Zorbs as well as an 'incredible edibles' section which allows children to create fancy and colourful food to play with.

Shwn Proudfoot and his son Levi (8) try their hand at some woodcraft at the ILT Kidzone Festival in Invercargill. PHOTO: Ben Waterworth

Festival director Karen Witham said that festival is a great opportunity for parents to bring their children along to enjoy some school holiday fun.

"Everybody who comes to the festival has a different approach to it. Some families will have their little ones do something for an hour, others want to use consumables and feel like they are getting bang for their buck."

"It's got regional benefit from it. This is our community and it's why we live here...we have a lot of community groups that get involved which is great.

The festival, which is in its 15th year, attracts close to 11,000 people across the six days Mrs Witham said, with 200 volunteers needed daily to help the event run smoothly.

She said it wasn't uncommon for tickets to sell out across the festival.

Close to 11,000 people are expected at the festival over the 6 days. PHOTO: Ben Waterworth

Outside of the activity stations, there are several displays on showcase including a circus skills workshop and a 'Kidzone's Got Talent' compeition.

There is also a large food area featuring a variety of multicultural food options.

The festival runs daily until Monday between 10.30am and 3.30pm with tickets $17.

Tickets are available via the Kidzone website.