Sydney for Kids (2025)

22/12/2024

Sydney for Kids is taking a bit of a break, returning in the New Year. So here is what's on for the rest of December, including a sample of New Year's Eve festivities, and the start of January. See our recent school holiday posts for info about museums, animal venues, outdoor venues and performances.

The City of Sydney has a huge What's On for the School Holidays guide here: https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/?tags=school-holidays

'Santa’s Studio' at Centennial Park is on Mon 23 from 8am - 4pm. Make decorations and gifts from the natural materials you have collected, discover Badu Ngura (Lachlan Swamp) and play fun games in the outdoor classroom. It runs from 8am - 4pm and is for ages 5 - 12: https://www.centennialparklands.com.au/santa%E2%80%99s-studio-2024

Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden has 'Animal encounters' on Mon 23 and 'Christmas in nature' on Tues 24, both for for 6 - 12 years and from 9am - 4pm: https://www.krg.nsw.gov.au/Things-to-do/Ku-ring-gai-Wildflower-Garden/Kids-programs/School-holidays-at-the-Wildflower-Garden

Animal venues such as Taronga Zoo are open on December 25. Check our Facebook post on Wed 18 for animal venues in Sydney.

The Start of Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is at 1pm on Thur 26: https://rolexsydneyhobart.com. Seeing the yachts off are many spectator vessels - it is a spectacular sight. It takes about 20 mins for the fastest yachts to clear the heads, and up to one hour for the slower ones. Vantage points include Bradley's Head, Chowder Bay, Q Station (mostly already sold out) and North Head on the north and Nielsen Park, South Head (walk from Camp Cove) and The Gap in the south. See also the 'Sydney Harbour National Parks Vantage Spots' entry below. You'll need to arrive early. Some cruise companies have vessels on the water for the start of the race, for example Captain Cook Cruises: https://www.captaincook.com.au/

There are several vantage spots in Sydney Harbour National Park to see the start of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. They are:
North Head, Manly - extremely popular on Boxing Day and crowds reach capacity early in the day.
Dobroyd Head (Tania Park)
Bradleys Head, there may be road closures
South Head, Watsons Bay
Sydney Harbour Islands - Shark Island is near the start . There is a ferry service from Captain Cook Cruises: https://www.captaincook.com.au/ferry/shark-island-ferry/
Public transport is strongly recommended for all vantage spots. For full details of facilities at all spots and to check closures and fire alerts : www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/Sydney-Harbour-National-Park

The Jeral Puppets present 'Pinocchio' plus 'Puss in Boots' for 3 - 9 years at the Puppeteria Theatre in Castle Cove on Fri 27, Mon 30 and Tues 31 at 10.30am: www.puppeteria.com

Go on a 'Bare Island Fort guided tour' in the La Perouse area in Kamay Botany Bay National Park. Cross the 130 year old wooden bridge and discover the history of 'Sydney's back door'. The next tours are on Fri 27 at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Bookings essential: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/guided-tours/bare-island-fort-guided-tour'

Moonlight Cinema at the Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park is screening 'Wicked' [PG] on Sat 28, 'Paddington in Peru' [PG] on Sun 29, 'Moana 2' [PG] on Thur 2 and 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' [PG] on Fri 3: https://sydney.moonlight.com.au/

Find out about the New Year's Eve schedule and all the vantage points for the displays on Sydney Harbour and the Darling Harbour fireworks here: https://www.sydneynewyearseve.com/

New Year's Eve in Campbelltown is at Koshigaya Park from 7pm - midnight. There will be live entertainment on stage, carnival rides, free facepainting and photobooth, showbags, food stalls and fireworks displays at 9pm and Midnight. The event is drug and alcohol-free:
https://www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Whats-On/New-Years-Eve

'Coogee Sparkles' is a 15-minute fireworks display at 9pm from the north end of Coogee Beach, near Dunningham Reserve. Roaming entertainment will be held along Coogee Beach promenade including giant bubbles (2pm - 5.30pm), roving entertainment including stilt walkers (5pm - 8pm) and roving music (2pm - 8pm). See online for vantage points and tips: https://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/community/whats-on/major-events/coogee-sparkles

'Meadowbank New Years Eve Fireworks Display' is at Meadowbank Park at 9pm. BYO picnic rug and picnic or purchase takeaway from one of the local restaurants or food trucks onsite: https://www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/Events/Listing/Meadowbank-New-Years-Eve-Fireworks-Display

There are a number of venues with fireworks around the Northern Beaches. There are 9pm displays at Lionel Watts Reserve, Frenchs Forest; East Esplanade, Manly and Ted Jackson Reserve, Dee Why. At Bayview there will be two displays at 9pm and midnight. Find out more info here: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/new-years-eve

There is a New Year's Eve Concert in Parramatta Park from 5pm - 9.30pm on the Crescent Stage and the Paddock Stage. See the line-up for both online. Family entertainment includes roving performers, amusement rides and fun activities for kids. There will be on site food trucks and the fireworks display is at 9pm from two launch sites: https://atparramatta.com/nye

'World Food Markets Freshwater' are on Fri 3 and 10 from 5pm - 9pm at Freshwater Beach Park. There will be food trucks and live music: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/world-food-markets-freshwater

Many local libraries have Summer Reading programs for children. Here are a couple of examples:
- Georges River Libraries' Summer Reading Challenge for children 16 and under: https://georgesriver.spydus.com/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/MSGTRNGEN/OPAC/SUMMERREADINGCHALLENGE
- The Hills Shire Libraries' Summer Reading Adventure for ages 5 - 14 years: https://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Upcoming-Events-Activities/Summer-Reading-Adventure
Visit your library's web pages and see what is on at your local library.

Nuragingy Reserve at Doonside has a number of play spaces including Wawai Ngurra, an inclusive adventure playspace and the Nurragingy splash park located on the Wren Picnic area. It has a large windmill, jets, spray fountain, cannons and bucket dumpers. It is open daily from 9.00 am - 6.30 pm until Friday 28 February: https://www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Sport-recreation/Parks-and-recreation-directory/Nurragingy-Reserve

Expressions of Interest for the Georges River 'Battle of the Beats' are open. The Battle of the Beats youth music competition will be in April 2025 and is open to young amateur musical acts aged 12 to 24 who have a connection to the Georges River area. EOI close on 21 February 2025: https://www.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au/Council/Media/Expressions-of-Interest-now-open-for-Battle-of-the-Beats-2025!

19/12/2024

The 'Carriageworks Christmas Market' is on Sat 21 from 8am - 3pm. There will be 100+ stalls, DJs spinning festive tunes and for the kids, Pocket City Farms will be hosting “Little Farmers” workshops and the Wormticklers (featuring Roy Aubergine and John Lemon) will be playing groovy tunes for the young at heart: https://carriageworks.com.au/events/carriageworks-christmas-market-2024

The 'EQ Christmas Market' is on Sat 21 from 8am - 4pm. As well as 100 stalls, there will be live music and carollers and family friendly activities: https://www.entertainmentquarter.com.au/event/eq-christmas-market/

The Wiggles present 'The Wiggles Wiggle & Learn Big Show' on Sat 21 at ICC Sydney Theatre at 10am and 1pm. This show is inspired by the hit YouTube series. Book tickets online: https://iccsydneytheatre.com/event/the-wiggles-wiggle-learn-big-show/

'The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show' is playing at The Seymour Centre from Sat 21 - Mon 23 at 10am, 12pm and 3pm (not 3pm on Mon). This show for ages 18 months+ features over 75 puppets and three other Eric Carle stories, including 'Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?'. Book online: https://www.seymourcentre.com/event/the-very-hungry-caterpillar-show/

The 'Magic of Christmas' outdoor family concert at Gledswood Homestead in Gledswood Hills is on Sat 21 from 3pm. Live performances include Christmas carols, local artists and children's entertainers 'The Vegetable Plot'. There will also be face painting and a visit from Santa plus food trucks onsite. Book tickets online: https://www.gledswood.com.au/christmascelebrationsatgledswood

Screening at the Sunset Cinema at Dolphin Court, Bondi Beach on Sat 21 is 'Home Alone' [G]. Gates open at 6.30pm, screening starts around 8.10pm - 8.30pm. You can BYO picnic or purchase snacks or dinner onsite: https://sunsetcinema.com.au/bondi/

Moonlight Cinema at the Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park is screening 'Elf' [PG] on Sat 21 and 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' [PG] on Sun 22. January's program is now available: https://sydney.moonlight.com.au/

'Woolworths Carols in the Domain' is on Sat 21 and will be broadcast from 8pm on Channel 7 & 7Plus. Performing are The Wiggles, Samantha Jade, Hugh Sheridan, Conrad Sewell, Erin Holland, Mark Vincent, Jael Wena, Kym Johnson, The Young Stars of Australian Opera, Janice Breen Performers, The Sydney Youth Orchestra, Rejoice Gospel Choir, The Australian Girls Choir. Find out online what's happening in the afternoon: https://carolsinthedomain.com/

The 'Blak Markets Christmas Market' is at Dawes Point Park in The Rocks, under the Harbour Bridge, on Sunday 22 December from 10am - 4pm. There will be 20 stalls selling authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural gifts, with 100% of profits going directly back to the communities that create them. There will also be free entertainment for all ages, including interactive weaving workshops, Indigenous dance performances and native plant workshops for the kids. See the program online: https://www.blakmarkets.com.au/the-rocks

18/12/2024

What's on in Greater Sydney Outdoor/ Nature/ Environmental venues in the Summer School Hols

The Australian Botanic Garden at Mt Annan has flower displays and natural woodland, a bird hide, a children's playground, a mountain bike track and great spots for a picnic. School holiday activities are:
- 'We’re Going on a Bug Hunt at Mount Annan' for 5 - 12 years is on Wednesdays 15, 22, and 29 at 10:30am – 12pm or 1pm – 2:30pm.
- 'Wild Water Dreaming at Mount Annan' is on Wednesdays 15, 22, and 29 at 10:30am – 12pm or 1pm – 2:30pm.
Book online: https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/australian-botanic-garden-mount-annan

The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mt Tomah has cultivated gardens and wilderness tracts and is set in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. On these school holidays is 'We’re Going on a Bug Hunt at Mount Tomah' for 5 - 12 years is on Wednesdays 15 and 22 at 10:30am – 12pm. Book online: https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/blue-mountains-botanic-garden-mount-tomah

There are a number of family activities in the Blue Mountains National Park including 'Junior Ranger', 'Katoomba Spotlight tour' and 'Aboriginal games for kids: Blackheath'. In Greater Sydney there are family activities in Royal National Park, at Bare Island Fort, at Barrenjoey Lighthouse and more: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/wilderquest/kids-and-family-activities

The Campbelltown Bicycle Education Centre is open for free on Sundays and on weekdays in school holidays from 10am - 3pm, closed Dec 23 - Jan 1. The centre is closed on public holidays and during extreme weather conditions. Bicycles and scooters are welcome and you must wear a helmet. As well as the main road circuit, there is a junior track for toddlers, a playground, BBQs, picnic tables, huts (bookable - ph 02 4645 4443) and you can BYO picnic: https://www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Services-and-Facilities/Bicycle-Education-Centre/Bicycle-Education-Centre

The Coastal Environment Centre, North Narrabeen has the 'Kids on the Coast' school holiday program exploring the natural environment for ages 6 - 12 on weekdays from Mon 13 - Fri 24 at 10am - 3pm. Examples of themes are 'Coastal Rangers', 'The Bug Club Experience' and 'Eco-Art Explorers': https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/environment/coastal-environment-centre/school-holiday-program

Cockatoo Island / Wareamah has accommodation and camping, a Kids activity book, a self-guided Tour, four orienteering courses and family-friendly school holiday tours are 'Sandstone to Steel', 'Convict Prison Tour' and 'Dark Past Tour': https://www.harbourtrust.gov.au/en/news/fun-school-holiday-activities-at-cockatoo-island/

Centennial Park has full-day drop-off programs on weekdays plus some family activities:
- 'Park Science - Marvellous Machines' for 5 - 12 years is on Tues 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 8am – 4pm
- 'Bushrangers – Water World' for 5 - 12 years is on Wed 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 8am – 4pm
- 'Park Arts – Print Making' for 5 - 12 years is on Thur 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 8am – 4pm
- 'Spotlight Prowl for Families' with children 5+ years is on Friday 10, 17 and 31 from 7.30pm - 9.10pm
- 'Fairy Escapades (Theatre) for families with children aged 4 - 10 is on Wed 22 at 10.30am- 11.30am
https://www.centennialparklands.com.au/whatson

Jenolan Caves is closed as major road repairs are carried out. The repairs are expected to take another 12 months or more: https://www.jenolancaves.org.au/

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden in St Ives has full day school holiday programs for primary aged children (6 - 12years) on most weekdays from Mon 13 Jan - Wed 5 Feb. Themes are nature based and include 'Water Play', 'Junior Keepers' and 'Camping and Cooking'. Programs for teens include 'Nature Connection through Art' for 8 - 14 years and 'Teen Bush Survival Skills' for ages 12 - 15. There are also 'Nature Bubs' sessions for 0 - 1 year on Wednesdays in Jan from 9.30am - 11am: https://www.krg.nsw.gov.au/Things-to-do/Ku-ring-gai-Wildflower-Garden/Kids-programs/School-holidays-at-the-Wildflower-Garden

Penrith Beach, AKA Pondi, at Castlereagh is open for the summer. Opening hours until Sun 2 February are 10 am to 7 pm daily and then on weekends from 10 am to 5 pm and on weekdays from midday to 5 pm from 3 February – 27 April 2025. There are 350 parking spots this season, so no need to book parking, but you might need to arrive early. There will also be events such as Wildlife Wednesdays - an environmental education program run by Sydney Zoo; water safety, learn to swim and junior lifesavers programs; Sandy Cinema and more: https://www.nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/penrith-beach

The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney has a number of activities for children and families.
- 'Wind in the Willows' is playing on the Main Pond Lawn on most days from Sun 4 - Sat 25. Showtimes are 10.30am or 11am and / or 6pm. After 20 years, this is a tried and true summer favourite with audience interaction, songs and humour. BYO picnic, rug or chairs. Book online: https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/whats-on/wind-willows
- 'We’re Going on a Bug Hunt at Sydney' for 5 - 12 years is on Mon 13 - Wed 15 and Tues 21 - Thur 23 at 10:30am – 12pm or 1pm – 2:30pm.
- 'Wild Water Dreaming at Sydney' is on Tues 14, Wed 15, Tues 21, Wed 22, Tues 28 and Wed 29 at 10:30am – 12pm or 1pm – 2:30pm.
- 'Sunset Spotlight Tour at Sydney' for families with children aged 7 - 12 is on Wed 15 and 22 at 8pm - 9.30pm
Book online: https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/whats-on

Sydney Olympic Park has a multitude of venues and things to do. Discover parks, playgrounds, bike tracks and facilities here: https://www.sydneyolympicpark.nsw.gov.au/parks-and-playgrounds
The sports and recreation activities available are archery, swimming, soccer, basketball, diving, netball, multi sports camp, holiday recreation program, netball, Dive and tumble, Teen Sports Holiday Program and table tennis: https://www.sydneyolympicpark.nsw.gov.au/venues/school-holiday-programs
There are also 'Writing Workshops' for a range of ages from 6 - 15 on selected days from Tues 21 - Fri 31: https://www.sydneyolympicpark.nsw.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/writing-workshop

Sydney Park Cycling Centre in Alexandria runs 'Balance Bike Clinics' for children aged 3 - 8 with their grown ups on Saturdays from Sat 11 Jan at 9am to 11am and in these school holidays on Mon 13 - Thur 16 and Mon 20 - Thur 23 at 9am to 11am: https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/venues/sydney-park-cycling-centre

'Urban Plunge' is establishing swimmable sites in the rivers, creeks, lakes and harbour inlets of Greater Sydney's cities and suburbs with the help of Sydney Water and local councils. Spots include some on the Parramatta River and at Lake Parramatta: https://urbanplunge.sydneywater.com.au/

Find out where to Picnic and Play in Western Sydney Parklands - "Sydney's Biggest Backyard": https://www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au/plan-your-visit/parklands-facilities/
School holiday events are
- 'Nocturnal Wildlife Walk' for families with children 5+ is on Friday 10, 17 and 31 at Plough and Harrow, Abbotsbury from 7.45pm - 9.15pm
- 'Park Rangers – Water World' for ages 5 - 12 is at Lizard Log Amphitheatre on Tues 14, Thur 23 and Thur 30 at 10am - 12pm
- 'Fairy Escapades (Theatre)' for families with children aged 4 - 10 years is at Lizard Log Amphitheatre on Tuesday 21 from 10:30am - 11:30am
Book online: https://www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au/things-to-do/whats-on/

The Wyatt Avenue Bike Park in Belrose has been designed especially for mountain bikers of all ages who are new to the sport. It has a trail loop, climb and decent section, technical features, a bike launching area and a viewing platform and picnic area with seating ideal for parents watching over their children: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/recreation-area/wyatt-avenue-bike-park

17/12/2024

What's on in Greater Sydney Animal Venues in the Summer school hols

The Australian Reptile Park at Somersby has 'Jurassic Zoo School Holidays' with roving dinosaurs, Dino Dance Party every morning and the Bonefields Dino Dig. There are free shows and talks throughout the day starting with the 'Galapagos Tortoise Talk' at 9.45am or 10am, and include 'Elvis the Crocodile Show' at 1.30pm and the 'Reptile Show' at 11am and 2pm or 2.15pm plus many more. There are also 'Animal Encounters' and 'Photo Experiences' The Zookeeper Program runs on selected days and caters for all ages from 3 years:
Mini Kids 2 Keeper is for ages 3 to 6
Little Kids 2 Keeper is for ages 7 to 12
Big Kids 2 Keeper is for ages 13 - 18
Inclusive Kids 2 Keeper is for ages 7 to 18
Adult Keeper for a Day is for 18+ (not on in the school hols). Book online: https://www.reptilepark.com.au/

At Featherdale Wildlife Park in Doonside, animal keeper talks include echidna, pelican and tree kangaroo. There are also encounters where you get closer to the animals. A walk through the Lorikeet aviary is free, as is a visit to the Featherdale Farmyard and Roo feeding costs $4 for food (while stocks last). Zoo Keeper for a Day (ages 8 - 11) and the new Kindy Zookeeper (ages 5 - 7) are on selected days: https://www.featherdale.com.au/

Koala Park in West Pennant Hills has koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, wombats, quolls, emus, wallabies and a large collection of Australian native birds. Presentations are Farmyard / Reptile at 9.30am and 1.10pm and four Koala Presentations daily at 10.20am, 11.45am, 2pm and 3pm: https://koalapark-sanctuary.com.au/

SEA LIFE Sydney in Darling Harbour has tropical reef fish, little penguins, jellyfish, turtles, dugongs, sharks and the fish from Sydney Harbour (plus more). A new exhibit is 'Become a Rockpool Ranger' where you can observe and learn about rockpool creatures including sea stars, crabs, sea cucumbers, sea urchins and fish species, guided by a SEA LIFE team member. 'Day & Night on the Reef' returns with 400 creatures, including Rays, Sharks, Jellyfish, and a huge variety of colourful fish species. Book online to guarantee entry and there are also Combo passes available with one or more of WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds Sydney and Sydney Tower Eye: https://www.visitsealife.com/sydney/

SS Equine in Dean Park have Horse Riding and Horsemanship Holiday Clinics, 1on1 lessons, Pony Parties and Horse Picnics. Book online: https://ss-equine.square.site/

Sydney Zoo at Bungarribee has animals from Africa, Asia, Australia and there is a section for primates and an aquarium. There are Keeper Talks and Animal Encounters include 'Mini Zookeeper For a Day' for ages 8-12, 'Accessible Zookeeper For a Day' for ages 8+ and 'Cadet Zookeeper For a Day' for ages 13- 17. These holidays, is the 'Summer of FREE' from 26 December – 31 January with a free frozen coke or ice cream for the kids, and the whole family can enjoy unlimited rides on the Fantasy Flyer. There is a new live interactive wildlife show and new babies are twin hyena cubs, the growing capybara family, a lemur baby, koala joeys and playful meerkat pups: https://sydneyzoo.com/

Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh has kangaroos, wallabies and farmyard animals that you can feed ($3 for 1 bag of food, $5 for 2bags), cheetah, meerkats, red pandas, koalas and a reptile house. Presentations start at 10.30am with Meerkat Feeding / Presentation and then roughly every half hour with the last one at 3pm. There is also the Symbio Splash Park, adventure playground and the Junior Keeper Camp for 7 to 12 years is on most weekdays from Jan 6 - 31: https://symbiozoo.com.au/

Taronga Zoo in Mosman has animal presentations - 'Free Flight Birds' and 'Seals for the Wild' and keeper talks throughout the day including giraffe, koala, meerkat and farmyard.
- The new 'Mufasa: The Lion King Trail' takes you around the zoo to find all the characters from 'Mufasa: The Lion King' and to discover animals of the African Savannah. It's on until Sun 19 Jan. Complete the trail, follow the QR code on the trail sign or kid’s map, and enter the Competition Words to double your chances of winning a selection of prizes.
- ARC -an Amphibian and Reptile experience. There are six zones, from alpine to desert, with 42 creatures that jump, slither and crawl, like the Tuatara, Alligator Snapping Turtle, the Inland Taipan and the largest reticulated Python in Australia.
- 'Nura Diya Australia' is an immersive Australian habitat where you can gain a deeper understanding of the relationship Aboriginal Culture has with Country.
- the Nocturnal Habitat with night-loving Australian wildlife including the Greater Bilby, Spinifex Hopping mice, Feathertail Gliders and the endangered Chuditch (Western Quoll).
- 'Backyard to Bush' kids trail
- 'Tiger Trek'
Other experiences are:
- The Wild Ropes Treetops Adventure high ropes course has junior and adult courses.
- Experiences for children include 'Zoo Adventures' for children aged 5 to 11 years, 'Junior Keeper' (ages 8 - 11) and 'Cadet Keeper' (ages 12 - 17)
https://taronga.org.au/sydney-zoo

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo in Darling Harbour has saltwater crocs, wombats, Tasmanian Devils, quokkas, platypus and a tree kangaroo. The Koala Photo Experience gets you close to the koalas and you can join the koalas for Koala Breakfast (and the koalas were actually active the morning I was there). These holidays collect the ten 'Wildlife Mates' cards and learn facts about Australian animals and their habitats. Booking online in advance can save up to 20%. Combo passes are available with one or more of SEALIFE Sydney, Madame Tussauds Sydney and Sydney Tower Eye: https://www.wildlifesydney.com.au

16/12/2024

What's on in Suburban Museums, Galleries and Libraries in the Summer School Hols.

Your local library presents many events for children and families, so check out what they are offering for the school hols.

Workshops at Bankstown Arts Centre are:
- 'Sculpting Fantasy Animals' for ages 6-10 on Tuesdays 7 and 14 from 10am-12pm
- 'Sculpting Fantasy Animals' for ages 10 - 16 on Tuesdays 7 and 14 from 1pm - 3pm
- 'Urban Sketch & Print' for ages 10-14 on Wednesday 8 from 10am-12pm
- 'Printing with Nature' for ages 6-10 on Wednesday 8 from 1-3pm
- 'Make Your Own Fantasy Chair Workshop' for ages 8-12 on Sat 11 from 10am-12pm
- 'Make your own fruit bowl' for ages 8-11 on Fri 17 from 2pm - 4pm
- 'Paint by numbers' for ages 6 - 10 on Tues 21 from 10am - 12pm
- 'Porcelain Painting' for ages 8-11 on Friday 24 from 2pm-4pm
- 'Paint a fruit bowl Still Life' for ages 8-11 on Friday 31 from 2pm-4pm
https://www.bankstownartscentre.com.au/whats-arts-centre

Blacktown Arts, in partnership with Art Gallery of New South Wales for Sydney Festival, is presenting Hive Festival on Thur 16 and Fri 17 January at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre. There will be a large-scale installation in the Arts Centre Performance Studio that participants can add their own kite piece to. Jannawi Dance Clan will perform, Elders Uncle Danny Eastwood and Uncle John Farrington will share First Nations culture and knowledge and Angela Paikea shares weaving techniques as part of WE’VE, a weaving program. There will also be hands-on making, drawing or painting workshops, video screenings of Kalanjay Dhir’s work, face painting with Bonnie Huang and Yasmin Keong and much more: https://blacktownarts.com.au/event/hive-festival-2025/

'Summer Art School Holiday Workshops' at Campbelltown Arts Centre for 5 - 12 years are on Thur 16 Jan. Workshop 1: 'Little Fancy Portraits' is on from 10am-12pm and Workshop 2: 'Creator Curator' is on from 1pm -3pm. You can bundle these two sessions together and bring a packed lunch ready for a picnic in the sculpture garden. Book online: https://c-a-c.com.au/summer-art-school-holiday-workshops/

The current exhibition at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre is 'From Kunstsilo with Love' by Collective Paper Aesthetics (until Sun 26 Jan). This is a hands-on, design exhibition with a large silver structure made of disco ball-like forms crafted from 100% recycled paper. Children and families are welcome to make their own disco balls to make new structures that will remain on display in the gallery: https://www.casulapowerhouse.com/whats-on/from-kunstsilo-with-love

Elizabeth Farm in Rosehill is open Friday and Saturday from 10am–4pm and daily from Friday 3 January to Saturday 1 February. This was the home of John and Elizabeth Macarthur and has been furnished with well-researched replicas so you can sit in the chairs and freely move around the rooms. Free drop-in activities include playing quoits in the garden, make a mini greenhouse to take home or step back in time to experience what it was like to do the laundry the old-fashioned way - by hand, without a washing machine! Connect with local Aboriginal history through the Tony Albert/Darug-designed ‘memory exchange’ activity. Designed to complement 'Healing land, remembering Country', this activity provides an opportunity to understand the stories of Aboriginal children in Governor Macquarie’s Native Institute. Entry is free but booking your entry time is recommended: https://mhnsw.au/visit-us/elizabeth-farm/plan-your-visit/
'History Kids – Explore the House at Elizabeth Farm' for 5 - 10 years is on Wed 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 10.30am–11.30am and 1.30pm–2.30pm. Listen to stories about the house and dress up as one of the Macarthur family’s servants to do some chores including laundry and making beds: https://mhnsw.au/whats-on/events/history-kids-explore-the-house-at-elizabeth-farm/

Workshops at Fairfield City Museum and Gallery are:
- 'Animals, Animals, Animals' for 7 - 14 years on Tues 14 from 10.30am - 12pm
- 'Storytime at the Museum' for families with children aged 3 - 5 years is on Wed 15 from 10.30am - 12pm
- 'Painting Reconstructions' for 6+ years is on Thur 16 from 10.30am - 12pm
- 'Abstract Collage' for 6+ years is on Thur 16 from 12.30pm - 2pm
- 'Artistic Birds' for 8 - 16 years is on Fri 17 from 10.30am - 12pm
- 'Ceramic Name Plaques' for 8 - 16 years is on Fri 17 from 12pm - 1pm
https://www.fcmg.nsw.gov.au/Whats-On

Hazlehurst Arts Centre in Gymea has Summer School Holiday Classes on weekdays from Mon 6 - Fri 17 including clay, painting, drawing, mixed media and more for Years K - 2, 3 - 6, and families. There are a swag of workshops, including 'Frog Jars', 'Dogs get Dressed', 'Owls in Flight' and 'Portrait Planter'. Book online or ph 02 8536 5700: https://hazelhurst.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/art-classes/school-holidays

The Ku-ring-gai Arts Centre has many workshops and events for kids, teens and families. There are workshops exploring drawing, painting, pottery, jewellery making, printmaking, sculpture and more. The program starts on Mon 13 with an 'Art Centre Open Day for kids' from 9am - 12pm and 'Art Centre Open Day for teens' from 1pm - 4pm. It then runs on weekdays until Thur 30 for a range of ages from 5 - 12 years and 12+: https://www.krg.nsw.gov.au/Things-to-do/Ku-ring-gai-Art-Centre/Art-Centre-School-holiday-program

Manly Art Gallery and Museum has 'Draw. Paint. Create: Drop-in and make a postcard'. Explore the exhibition 'The Water Understands' and create a postcard using watercolours in this free self-guided activity. All materials supplied. It's on across the summer until Tues 28 Jan. No bookings required: https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/whats-on/draw-paint-create-drop-and-make-postcard

Powerhouse Castle Hill is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 4pm during school term. The school holiday progrm runs from Sat 21 Dec – Thur 30 Jan.
- 'Map your Way' is a free drop-in activity is designed for children 5–12 years and adults. It is on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am – 4pm, from Sat 21 Dec to Sun 26 Jan
- 'Python Coding with Minecraft', recommended for ages 11–14 is on Wed 8 and Thur 23 from 10am–4pm
- 'Block Coding with Minecraft' for ages 7 - 10 is on Thur 9, Wed 15 and Wed 22 from 10am–4pm
- 'Robotics' for ages 8 - 11 is on Fri 10, Thur 16 and Wed 29 from 10am–4pm
- 'Family Minecraft Escape Room' for families with children aged 7+ is on Sun 12 and Sat 18 at 10.30am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 3.30pm
- 'Storytelling through Minecraft' for ages 8–11 is on Fri 17 and Thur 30 January from 10am–4pm
https://powerhouse.com.au/program/school-holidays

Activities at or near PHIVE in Parramatta Square are:
- 'Creative Studio: Photobashing' for ages 11–17 is on Wed 8 - Fri 10 January from 10am–2pm. Free but registration required
- 'Creative Studio: Digital Puppetry' for ages 11–17 is on Wed 15 - Fri 17 January from 10am–2pm. Free but registration required
Both of these activities are presented through Powerhouse Castle Hill: https://powerhouse.com.au/program/school-holidays
- 'Youth Hip-Hop, Acrobatics & Breakdancing Workshop with Dauntless Movement Crew' is a three day workshop for ages 8 - 12 on Mon 13 - Wed 15 from 10am - 2pm
- 'Youth Masterclass: Puppeteering & Performance with Erth' is a three day workshop for ages 8 - 12 on Mon 13 - Wed 15 from 9.30am - 3.30pm
- 'Summer Skating at PHIVE' is on from Fri 3 - Sat 25. There are roller skating sessions for Tiny Tots, Learn to Skate Workshops for ages 4+, Teen Sessions (5 PM), Adaptive Skating Sessions and over 17s Themed Nights: Fridays and Saturdays, 6pm – 9pm, with live DJs. Bookings preferred.
- 'Ocean Warriors' for all ages is on Tues 7 from 10am - 12pm, free but registration required
- 'A Monster Stole My Ice Cream! Watercolour Workshop' for ages 5-12 is on Thur 9 from 10am - 11.30am
- 'Building Resilience Through Adventure' for ages 4 - 12 is on Fri 10 from 10am - 12pm. Free but registration required.
https://cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive/summer-holidays-at-phive

The Museum of Fire in Penrith has
- Junior Firefighters Zone with fire safety activities, computer games, puzzles and dress ups. Take command of a fire engine in the simulator.
- Fire Spotting Trail for children aged 3-7
- Scavenger Hunt activity for children aged 8-14.
- Fire Engine Rides cost an extra $3.50 per person and will run on Tues 7, Fri 10, Sun 12, Sat 18 - Tues 21, Fri 24, Sat 25 and Tues 28 from 10am - 2pm.
- 'Summer Family Morning' is on Sat 11 from 10am - 12pm. There will be historic firefighting demonstrations and fire engine rides (booking in advance is highly recommended)
https://www.museumoffire.net/plan-your-visit

The NSW Rail Museum in Thirlmere is open daily, Mon - Fri from 10am - 4pm and Sat and Sun from 9am - 5pm. In the Great Train Hall is Australia's biggest collection of rolling stock and you can climb aboard some of the carriages. See the roundhouse and its 105-foot turntable. Plus there are extra games and activities for the school holidays. Summer Railmotor Rides run along the Loop Line from Thirlmere to Buxton and return on Wed 1 - Thur 30 (extra cost). The museum is closed 23, 24 and 25 December: https://www.nswrailmuseum.com.au/

Penrith Regional Gallery has workshops for ages 3 - 12:
- 'Drawing with Charcoal for 9 – 12 years' on Tuesday 14 from 10am – 12pm
- 'Drawing Big Black Cats for 5 – 8 years' on Wednesday 15 from 10am – 12pm
- 'Panther Puppets for 3 – 5 years' on Tuesday 21 from 10am – 11am
- 'Magical Treasure Boxes for 5 – 8 years' on Wednesday 22 from 10am - 12pm
- 'Painted Pixels for 9 – 12 years' on Thursday 23 from 10am – 12pm
Book online: https://www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au/event-series/school-holidays/

'Ghost Trackers Kids Tour' at the Q Station, North Head is on Friday and Saturday nights from 7pm - 9pm. This is a family event, recommended for children aged 8 and over. There will be ghost stories and ghost hunting. Book online: https://www.quarantineghosttours.com.
New these holidays is the 'Skip Through Quarantine Kids Tour' on Fridays in January at 2pm - 3pm. There has been an outbreak of small pox on an arriving ship in 1921. Discover what life had been like on board the ship and how the arriving passengers were processed as they arrived at the Quarantine Station: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/qstation/items/489275/calendar/2025/01/?full-items=yes&flow=558050

Rouse Hill Estate was home to six generations of one family and is a semi-rural property with livestock and native wildlife. It also features the restored 1888 Rouse Hill schoolhouse, a section of the original Windsor Road turnpike proclaimed by Governor Macquarie in 1813, and the site of the doomed 1804 ‘Vinegar Hill’ convict rebellion. It is open from 10am - 4pm on Sundays, free entry. On Sun 19, there is a Basket weaving activity with Muru Mittigar. Families are welcome to drop in and craft their own baskets to take home: https://mhnsw.au/visit-us/rouse-hill-estate/

The Sydney Bus Museum in Leichhardt is open on the first and third Sunday of the month from 10am - 4pm, ie 5 and 19 Jan. Entry includes unlimited rides aboard a vintage double-decker bus to/from Town Hall (Park St Stand H) and return. See the timetable and book online: https://www.sydneybusmuseum.com.au/

The Sydney Tramway Museum at Loftus is open on Wednesdays (10am - 3pm) and Sundays (10am - 5pm). As well as tram rides to Sutherland (reduced service due to trackwork) and into the Royal National Park, there is the old Railway Square waiting shed, the Display Hall with many trams including Australia’s oldest electric tram, electric barbecues, a picnic area and a souvenir shop and kiosk: https://www.sydneytramwaymuseum.com.au/

Valley Heights Railway Museum is usually open on the second and fourth Sunday of the month from 10am - 4pm, but will only be open on Sun 19 Jan these holidays. On that day, the museum is celebrating 'Diesel days at Valley Heights' and you can ride a heritage diesel train at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 (bookings are recommended). See locomotives, carriages and wagons, the roundhouse and model railways: https://www.valleyheightsrailmuseum.info/

Vaucluse House is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am-4pm (closed 25 Dec). It was the Wentworth family's grand mid-19th-century harbourside estate. As well as the house, explore the pleasure garden and Victorian kitchen garden. Bookings essential at the Estate Vaucluse House Restaurant (closed Saturday 23 December – Thursday 9 January). Entry is free but please pre-book online: https://mhnsw.au/visit-us/vaucluse-house/
'History Kids – Explore Vaucluse House' is an activity for families with children 5 - 10 years on Thur 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 10.30am–11.30am and 1.30pm–2.30pm. Discover more about the Birrabirragal and Gadigal and learn how they worked and lived on this land. Then dress up and imagine you are one of the Wentworth family’s servants – you’ll do the laundry, explore the cellar, work in the kitchen, and look at some of the toys the Wentworth children would have played with: https://mhnsw.au/whats-on/events/history-kids-explore-vaucluse-house/

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