If you are wondering how to kids entertained during the upcoming Spring school holidays in Sydney, l am here to help guide you through the myriad of options. As a long-time Sydney local who’s explored this city with my own children and now grandchildren, I’ve put together a practical guide to family-friendly activities that won’t break the bank or your sanity.
The Spring School Holidays run from Monday, 30 September to Friday, 11 October 2024
This isn’t just another list of tourist spots. We have curated options that are both fun and enriching, from hands-on workshops to outdoor adventures that’ll wear the kids out (you’re welcome).
Whether you’re looking for free activities, rainy day backup plans, or ideas to get everyone moving, you’ll find tried-and-tested suggestions here. Let’s explore the best ways to make the most of these two weeks, and perhaps discover some of Sydney’s lesser-known attractions along the way.
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School Holiday Ideas
From mornings at the park or playground to picnics and perhaps some national park walks, it’s a great time to enjoy the outdoors but remember to slip, slop, slap especially in the middle of the day when it can still be warm.
For some educational fun, head to one of Sydney’s 20+ museums and galleries. Many offer special school holiday activities, some for little or no cost. It’s worth remembering that these usually require booking, so get in quick.
Talk to the Animals
Sydney’s got some of the best animal encounters around, and these school holidays are the perfect time to get up close with our furry and finned friends.
Whale Watching
Bears might hibernate, but winter is when the whales come out to play. Rug up and head to the cliff tops along the Sydney coastline for your best whale viewpoints.
One great spot to visit with kids is Kamay National Park at Kurnell. For starters, there is a bronze whale perfect for posing with if you miss out on seeing the real thing. There is also plenty of room to run around and some easy family-friendly bushwalks to tire them out for the drive home.
Alternatively, book yourself a whale-watching cruise. Captain Cook’s boats are big enough to keep kids safe (although this is best for kids 4 years and over).
Where: Circular Quay or Darling Harbour for cruises
When: 21 May – 30 Oct 2024 for best opportunities
Cost: from $55 per adult – Bookings and more info here
Check out our detailed guide to all of Sydney’s zoos and animal parks here.
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Wildlife Sydney
One of the main attractions at Sea Life Sydney is Pig the Dungog. It is followed closely by the cute penguins and, of course, the sharks!
This school holidays, why not learn more about the penguins on Sea Life’s Journey to the Antarctic? You can board the penguin boat ride, which is included with your admission or book one of the special penguin experiences.
Wildlife Sydney Zoo offers the chance to get up close to some of the less well-known Aussie animals, like a quokka and a numbat. You can also meet Kofi the tree kangaroo.
When: 7 days, 10am-5pm (last entry 4pm)
Where: Lime Street Darling Harbour
Cost: Single entry or multi passes available. Check for offers.
Consider a combo pass, which is great value in the holidays.
Sydney Zoo
Sydney Zoo at Bungarribee has some great stuff planned for this school holidays.
The zoo is great for families with flat paths perfect for little explorers’ feet. Don’t miss the pride of lions and, of course, the cheeky meerkats.
If you want something special, there are several animal encounters you can book.
When: Open every day from 9am – 5pm
Cost: $40 adults, $19.99 kids 3-15 yrs – These are online prices, at the gate, it’s at least $5 per ticket more expensive.
Buy your pass now and skip the queue.
Australian Reptile Park
Is your child crazy for reptiles? Head to the Australian Reptile Park on the Central Coast this school holidays! Learn all about the incredible ‘superpowers’ that these animals have.
Where: Somersby, Central Coast (30 minutes’ drive from Wahroonga)
Cost: $48 adults, $30 kids, $135 families (2 adults, 2 kids)
Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience
Get ready to travel back in time and encounter the giants of the Jurassic era with Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience, coming to Sydney for a limited time!
This 45- to 75-minute experience is designed for explorers of all ages, featuring more than 80 life-size dinosaur replicas, including iconic species like the T-rex, Stegosaurus, and Velociraptor. The interactive exhibit includes animatronics and a virtual aquarium where visitors can dive into the deep sea to meet Jurassic marine creatures.
When: Starting September 23, 2024 (Various dates available)
Where: Fever Pavilion, Olympic Blvd, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127
Cost: from $28-$44 – get your tickets here
Discover Australian Native Bees at Barangaroo Reserve
Take the kids to Barangaroo Reserve this Spring School Holidays for a fun and educational adventure all about Australian Native Bees! This hands-on activity invites children to dive into the fascinating world of bees, with a special focus on the sugarbag bee, a native species found right at Barangaroo Reserve.
Not only will they learn about the critical role bees play in pollinating plants that produce our food, but they will also explore the rich connection between First Nations culture and these incredible pollinators.
The experience includes a bee hotel-making workshop where kids can build their very own habitat to take home, helping support these essential creatures by providing safe environments for them to thrive. Perfect for young nature enthusiasts or those simply looking for an engaging holiday activity!
When: Spring School Holidays (Check for available dates)
Where: Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney
Cost: $16.50
Active fun
If you’ve got energetic kids bouncing off the walls, these activities will help burn off that excess energy and maybe tire them out for the ride home.
Family Fun Challenge by AmazingCo.
I love all the activities on the AmazingCo platform but this one jumped out as a great way for the family to spend some fun time together working on a common goal.
AmazingCo. offers family mystery picnics and family date nights.
Monster Jump
Get ready to bounce into the ultimate school holiday adventure! Australia’s hottest attraction, Monster Jump, is back at the Entertainment Quarter in Sydney.
This colossal 280-metre inflatable obstacle course, featuring over 30 unique challenges, promises endless fun for all ages. Whether you’re racing your mates or tackling each obstacle at your own pace, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Plus, we’re excited to introduce the new Monster Sports Jam Inflatable with epic activities like basketball, jousting, and more! Tickets are selling fast, so pre-book online to secure your spot for a day of sliding, climbing, and bouncing fun!
When: 28 September to 6 October 2024
Where: Entertainment Quarter, Sydney
Open Air Roller Rink at Palm Grove
Get your groove on at Darling Harbour’s 70s-inspired Open Air Roller Rink!
Perfect for kids and parents alike, the rink offers daytime skating and nighttime fun, with DJs spinning retro hits and nearby food trucks and bars to keep the energy flowing.
When: Daily, 10am till late, Saturday 28 September to Sunday 13 October
Where: Palm Grove, Darling Harbour
Cost: $20-$27 Family – $75 (2A + 2Kids)
Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout
Step back in time to relive the magic of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Discover authentic artifacts and immerse yourself in a fresh virtual reality tour at the museum, with a special emphasis on the rich history of one of Australia’s most renowned symbols. Ascend the 200 steps to reach the pinnacle and indulge in breathtaking panoramic vistas of Sydney and its surroundings, offered by the city’s original observation point situated 87 meters above the sea.
When: School holidays open daily from 10am to 4pm
Cost: Adults $24.95, Kids (4-13 years) $12, Students $16
Luna Park
Luna Park has rides to entertain the entire family. You can hit up one of the old favourites or try out some of the nine newer rides.
Before you head home, pop into Wendy’s Secret Garden for a game of hide and see. Or if the kids have any energy left, you could walk back to the city across the harbour bridge.
Lunaverse, which includes, Dream Circus & Sonic Neon, is also on throughout the holidays.
When: Open daily during the school holidays, Friday-Monday at other times of year
Cost: Day passes from $34 – $75 annual passes $199. Tickets here.
SPOTLIGHT PROWL FOR FAMILIES
Experience the magic of twilight wildlife at Centennial Parklands. As evening falls, the park becomes a haven for nocturnal animals, including a large population of grey-headed flying-foxes, along with brushtail possums, microbats, and tawny frogmouths.
Embark on an enlightening spotlight walk guided by expert Rangers. This adventure gives you a rare glimpse into the nighttime world of these fascinating creatures, showing a different, more mysterious side of the park as darkness descends.
When: Friday 12, July from 4:30pm- 6pm
Where: Robertson Road Gates, Centennial Park
Cost: $24.50 per ticket
Performance & Theatre for kids
From classic stories to new adventures, Sydney’s stages are bursting with shows that’ll keep the kids glued to their seats.
Spot On Children’s Festival
Riverside Theatres’ Spot On Children’s Festival returns this spring school holidays.The festival features a diverse program of theatre, music, and circus acts for children of all ages, along with free activities and low-cost interactive concerts.
Highlights include:
- Imagine Live: A digital puppetry adaptation of Alison Lester’s Imagine. Ages 5+.
- The Librarian: Acrobatics and juggling transform a library into an adventure. Ages 5-12.
- The Listies Make Some Noise!: A fun mix of silly songs and sketches. Ages 5+.
- Little Bozu and Kon Kon: A tale of empathy using puppetry & Japanese folklore. Ages 4+.
- Dr Hubbles Bubbles: A bubble-filled show with a message on sustainability. Ages 3+.
- Shrek The Musical: Sydney Youth Musical Theatre’s adaptation of the DreamWorks film.
- Paper Planet: Build a cardboard forest & explore creativity with Polyglot Theatre. Ages 3+.
When: 28 September – 20 October 2024
Where: Riverside Theatres, Parramatta
Cost: Visit the Festival website for tickets.
Big Sky
Big Sky – Sydney Premiere by Flying Fruit Fly Circus
Experience the Sydney premiere of Big Sky, a captivating new performance by the world-renowned Flying Fruit Fly Circus. This thrilling show follows 12 unforgettable characters as they embark on a journey across regional Australia, all unfolding over a single night.
Performed entirely by talented young artists, Big Sky showcases dazzling up-close circus stunts and captivating storytelling as the characters get caught up in mischief and adventure. This is a must-see event for the whole family, filled with excitement and wonder.
When: 28 September – 5 October 2024
Where: The Studio, Sydney Opera House
Cost: $35-$49
Edward the Emu
Edward the Emu is a must-see event that will leave you smiling from ear to ear, perfect for a family outing! This delightful production brings to life the heartwarming and hilarious adventures of Edward and Edwina.
This magical retelling features inventive design, exceptional puppetry, and original music, making it the perfect theatrical experience for audiences aged 4 and up. Whether you’re young or young at heart, Edward the Emu is sure to captivate and entertain the entire family.
This enchanting stage adaptation of Edward the Emu, based on the timeless Australian classic by Sheena Knowles will be presented by Monkey Baa.
When: 27 September – 6 October 2024
Where: The Playhouse, Sydney Opera House
Cost: $29 to $49
Circa’s Carnival of the Animals
Inspired by Camille Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals, this enchanting show brings the animal kingdom to life with juggling zebras, somersaulting kangaroos, and rhythmical elephants, all performed by the world-famous Circa Contemporary Circus.
Perfect for children ages three and up, Carnival of the Animals combines stunning acrobatics with classical music, creating a magical experience for circus, music, and animal lovers alike. Part of Carriageworks’ Carriageworks Moves program, this show is a must-see event of the season.
When: 1-5 October 2024
Where: Carriageworks, Bay 20, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
Tickets: Child: $25 | Concession: $25 | Standard: $40 | $5 booking fee for all transactions
Waru – Journey of the Small Turtle
Waru – Journey of the Small Turtle is Bangarra’s first dedicated children’s work. This enchanting production, created by former Bangarra Artistic Director Stephen Page, along with Hunter Page-Lochard and Bangarra alumni dancers and choreographers Sani Townson and Elma Kris, is an interactive and immersive introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture and dance.
Designed for audiences aged 3 and up, Waru follows the heroine Migi, a small turtle, on her journey back to the beach where she was born. Through captivating storytelling, beautiful dance, and cultural elements, children will be drawn into Migi’s adventure, learning about resilience, connection, and the rich traditions of the Torres Strait Islands.
When: 9-10 October 2024
Where: Playhouse, Sydney Opera House
Cost: $22-$39
Gone Buggo presents “Let Me Explain
Get ready for a wild ride as Gone Buggo takes the stage to unravel the mysteries of the insect world with their latest show, “Let Me Explain”!
Expect a quirky, fun, and educational journey where you’ll learn about the fascinating lives of bugs in a way you’ve never experienced before. Whether you’re a bug enthusiast or just curious, this show promises to entertain and enlighten!
When: 27 September 6pm in Darling Harbour or 28 Sept 5:15pm at Marrickville.
Where: Village Green Festival Garden- South Tent at Darling Quarter and Factory Theatre Marrickville
Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive VR Expedition to Ancient Egypt
Step into the ancient world of Egypt with Horizon of Khufu, an extraordinary immersive VR experience. Journey back 4500 years and explore the majestic Pyramids of Giza like never before! With the help of cutting-edge virtual reality technology, you’ll navigate the mysterious corridors of the Great Pyramid, unlock the secrets of the Queen’s Chamber, and even try your hand at deciphering ancient hieroglyphs.
Developed in collaboration with Harvard University’s Egyptologist Peter der Manuelian, this one-of-a-kind expedition brings the golden age of Egypt to life, offering an intimate, educational adventure perfect for small groups. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about ancient wonders, this experience is not to be missed!
When: Now until December – Age requirement: 8+ (minimum height of 1.30m)
Where: Fever Pavilion, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park
Cost: $ 36-$45 Tickets available online
School Holiday Workshops and Classes
For a bit of learning mixed with fun, these exhibitions and workshops will get the kids thinking without realizing they’re being educated.
T.rex Adventures with Professor Flint
Join singing palaeontologist Professor Flint on a musical adventure as he unravels the mysteries of the Tyrannosaur family. Discover strange and extraordinary facts about T. rex and its relatives, and get answers to burning questions like who would win in a battle between T. rex and Spinosaurus.
This interactive show, filled with captivating stories and lively songs, is perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
When: 11-12 October, 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm
Where: Australian Musuem
Cost: Members $8, non-Members $10
Descendants of Dinosaurs Bird Show
Explore the fascinating world of birds in this captivating live show that highlights their evolution from dinosaur ancestors. Marvel at an impressive lineup of free-flying birds and learn about their survival through time.
The show includes engaging flying demonstrations and an interactive Q&A session, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
When: 8-10 October, 11.30am & 1.30pm
Where: Australian Museum
Cost: Members $12, non-Members $15
Dinosaurs Down Under with Professor Flint
Embark on an exciting journey into Australia’s prehistoric past with singing palaeontologist Professor Flint. Through unforgettable songs and stories, discover the amazing dinosaurs that once roamed, swam, and flew in the land down under.
This interactive adventure is both fun and educational, perfect for young dinosaur fans eager to learn more about Australia’s ancient creatures.
When: 11 and 12 October, 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm
Where: Australian Museum
Cost: Members $8, non-Members $10
Jurassic DinoRama: Stop-Motion Production for Tweens & Teens
Create your own Jurassic world in this hands-on stop-motion workshop with Tamara Gulic Phoenix from Creative Ark. Participants will craft a dino-rific landscape using clay, rocks, sand, and paint, and then bring it to life with toy dinosaurs and stop-motion animation.
This workshop blends art, science, and technology, offering a creative and educational experience for tweens and teens.
When: 10 and 11 October, 1pm – 3pm
Where: LG, Patricia McDonald Education Rooms, Australian Museum
Cost: Member child $52, non-Member child $65 ($15 with Creative Kids Voucher)
Scientist for a Day: Climate Scientist
In this full-day workshop, go behind the scenes at the Australian Museum to learn about the work of climate scientists. Led by Dr. Jenny Newell and Madison Kuras, participants will explore environmental and climate science projects, get hands-on with creative solutions for a sustainable future, and even learn how koala conservation efforts are being supported through scat analysis.
This engaging experience is designed to inspire young minds with positive solutions for our planet.
When: 30 Sept. and 1 October, 9.30am – 3.30pm
Where: LG, Patricia McDonald Education Rooms, Australian Museum
Cost: Member Child $120, non-Member Child $150
Sneaky Sharks Activity Trail
Follow the trail and try to spot the elusive elasmobranchs (sharks, rays and sawfish) hidden in the museum galleries. Learn ‘fin-tastic fun facts and uncover splendid shark-related objects’ while learning about everyone’s favourite big fish. If you complete the trail, you’ll also receive a prize.
When: Daily during school holidays, 10am-4pm
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum
Cost: Free. No booking required.
From the local library to the city’s museums and galleries, the school holidays are a great time to explore or develop a new passion. Here are just some of them.
SHIPWRECKED! Torchlight Tour
Join character guide Stormy Grey the castaway for a dramatic after dark tour through the museum. Join a hunt to find shipwreck treasure in the museum galleries and enjoy exclusive after-hours access to our spring exhibitions including James Cameron – Challenging the Deep. Enjoy themed refreshments and souvenir art making.
Dates: Thursday 10 October, 6:15pm-7:45pm
Ages: Suitable for ages 4 – 12 and accompanying adults
Booking: Bookings essential, see ticket link here.
Price: $25 child, $20 adult, $75 family (2 adults and up to 3 kids).
Fantastic Fossils and Spectacular Sculptures
Be inspired by models, dioramas and fossils in the museum’s exhibitions and learn about how museums create replica objects for exhibitions. Experiment with specialist sculpting and mold making materials like silicon and plaster to make your own marvellous models and spectacular sculptures using your favourite objects or specimens.
Create your own molds and casts to fill with a variety of materials like soap, wax, plaster or even chocolate!
Dates: 2 + 9 October 10am – 4pm ( Full-day course)
Ages: Suitable for ages 8 – 14
Booking: Bookings essential, see ticket link here.
Cost: $85 general, $75 members or Early Bird (before 26 September)
High Teas and Food fun
CandyFest School Holiday High Tea at Shangri-La Sydney
Step into a world of sweets and vibrant colours at the CandyFest High Tea Buffet at Shangri-La Sydney during the spring school holidays. Held in the Grand Ballroom, this whimsical event offers a delightful feast of candy creations, mouth-watering desserts, and savoury treats.
Indulge in treats like the Giant Rainbow Swirl Lollypop Cheesecake, Fluffy Fairy Floss Fraise Gateau, and Chewy Gooey Marshmallow Brownie, alongside savoury favourites such as Ratatouille Vegetable Calzone and Barramundi Fish Pie. Don’t miss the interactive dessert station, where you can create your own Lolly Pizza Cookie.
When: 28-29 Sept., 5-6 Oct, & 11-13 Oct, 11am-1pm or 2pm to 4pm
Where: Grand Ballroom, Shangri-La Sydney
Cost: $84 per adult (over 12yrs) $64 per child (3-11 yrs)
Pizza Making Class at Crossroads Hotel
Let your kids unleash their inner chef in this interactive pizza making class! Guided by the resident chef, little ones will create their own pizzas from scratch, donning aprons and chef hats, before enjoying their culinary creations alongside a soft drink or juice, topped off with a sweet treat for dessert. A fun, hands-on cooking experience awaits!
When: 1st October, 10:15am to 12pm
Where: Crossroads Hotel, Casula
Cost: $45 per child (Bookings essential)
Pot Painting & Gardening Class at Crossroads Hotel
Get creative with a pot painting and gardening class where kids can decorate their own ceramic pots and plant seedlings to take home. This class fosters creativity and a love for nature, with all materials provided along with lunch and a drink.
When: 8th October, 10:15am to 12pm
Where: Crossroads Hotel, Casula
Cost: $45 per child (Bookings essential)
Free Things to do during the School Holidays
Keeping the kids entertained doesn’t have to cost a fortune – here are some of my favorite free activities around Sydney.
Free events at the Australian Museum
T.rex Autopsy
Dive deep into the mysteries of one of Earth’s most fascinating creatures in this special live show. Experience a T.rex autopsy as experts peel back the layers to explore the inner workings of this prehistoric giant. A captivating event for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
When: 8-12 October, 10.30am and 2.30pm
Prehistoric Hunt
Become a prehistoric detective in this fun-filled hunt throughout the Museum. Search for hidden prehistoric figures and see how many you can discover. A great activity for all ages to enjoy during your visit.
When: 8-12 October, 10am – 5pm
Dino Tales with Noah and Mark
Join 14-year-old dinosaur enthusiast Noah and Mark Radburn from Love on the Spectrum as they share their passion for dinosaurs. Hear their stories, learn fun facts, and connect with fellow dino-lovers in this engaging and interactive session.
When: 8-10 October, 10.30am – 2pm
Erth Dinosaur Puppets
Experience the past coming to life as the Erth Dinosaur Puppets roam the Museum. Watch in awe as these life-like puppets bring prehistoric creatures right before your eyes, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
When: 8-12 October, 10.30am – 3pm
Songs of Disappearance
Embark on an auditory adventure through the Birds of Australia gallery. Discover the importance of protecting our feathered friends and immerse yourself in the sounds that tell the story of Australia’s incredible birdlife.
When: 8-12 October, 10.30am – 5pm
Where: Birds of Australia Gallery
Free events at the Maritime Museum
Mermaid Melody’s Book Nook
Take a break and enjoy calm, creative activities in the lounge area inspired by Valerie Taylor’s Mermaid Melody. Families can join in large-scale collaborative colouring of sea creatures, relax on pillows, read books, or create playful stories with sea creature puppets from the “touch tank.”
Sneaky Sharks Activity Trail
Follow the trail to spot elusive elasmobranchs in the museum galleries. Uncover splendid shark-related objects and stories as you learn fin-tastic fun facts about everyone’s favourite big fish. Complete the trail to receive your prize.
Cabinet of Curiosities: Shipwreck Stories
Explore wonderful and curious maritime archaeology tools and scientific artefacts and tools in this hands-on discovery device in our galleries.
Dates: Daily during school holidays, 2-3pm
Ages: Suitable for all ages
First Nations Storytelling Workshop
Immerse your family in the rich cultural heritage of Gamilaroy Country through art, music, and storytelling at the First Nations Storytelling Workshop.
This workshop will invoke Dreamtime stories in a meaningful and educational way for kids.
When: Wednesday 2 October, 1:30pm
Where: Pier Street Underpass, Darling Harbour
Interactive Workshops at Pier Street Underpass
Unleash your child’s creativity with free interactive workshops that explore botany, ecology, and art.
Kids can design their own comics, build sustainable cities from reclaimed materials, or colour in giant art cubes under the guidance of illustrator James Gulliver Hancock. Don’t miss Sydney’s favorite mobile library, Russ the Story Bus, for some quiet downtime.
When: Various dates during the school holidays
Where: Pier Street Underpass, Darling Harbour
Parliament House Tours
During the school holidays, engaging tours of NSW Parliament House will be held every weekday at 11.30am and 1.30pm. Highlights of the one-hour tour include the chance to sit in the Speaker and President’s chair and hear directly from staff who work in the chambers when parliament sits.
If you would like to spend more time at the Parliament of NSW and are looking for a bite to eat, visit the Public Café or Strangers’ Restaurant, which overlooks The Domain, a lush green space in the Sydney CBD.
Darling Harbour Playground
Kids of all ages will enjoy a visit to Darling Harbour’s epic playground. With a massive climbing frame, a 21-metre flying fox and a bunch of swings suitable for all ages. If you have not visited for a while you will find a lot of new installations to explore.
There are cafes and family-friendly food options surrounding the playground, making it easy to spend several hours here.
Flower Pressing & Lantern Making at Chinese Garden of Friendship
Let your child’s creativity bloom with hands-on workshops at the Chinese Garden of Friendship. From flower pressing to lantern making, kids and teens will be inspired by these artistic activities in a serene garden setting.
When: Mon – Fri, 11am, 12pm and 1pm during the school holidays
Where: Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour
Cost: free with Garden entry
Interactive Workshops at Pier Street Underpass
Unleash your child’s creativity with free interactive workshops that explore botany, ecology, and art. Kids can design their own comics, build sustainable cities from reclaimed materials, or colour in giant art cubes under the guidance of illustrator James Gulliver Hancock. Don’t miss Sydney’s favorite mobile library, Russ the Story Bus, for some quiet downtime.
When: Various dates during the school holidays
Where: Pier Street Underpass, Darling Harbour
Cost: Free
Convict Trail at Hyde Park Barracks
If you have not visited Hyde Park Barracks since it reopened a few years ago, now is a perfect time.
A special audio guide suitable for children aged 5-10 years will keep the kids entertained while they explore Sydney’s past. As they move through the collection, they solve puzzles using a number of clues.
Where: Macquarie Street Sydney
When: Open Thursday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, closed Christmas Day and Australia Day
Catch and Release Fishing
Get ready for a fun day out at the Sydney International Regatta Centre! Every Tuesday, families and friends can enjoy ‘Catch and Release’ fishing with barbless hooks. Join other fishing enthusiasts from 9 am to 3 pm. First-timers will get a quick guide and paperwork done.
Volunteers are there to help find the best fishing spots and share stories. Learn about responsible fishing and the nine fish species in the scenic Penrith Lakes. Don’t forget your fishing license, rod, reel, barbless hooks, and bait like corn, bread, or worms (no live bait).
When: Every Tuesday, 9am – 3pm
Where: Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith Lakes
Cost: Free, but a fishing license is required (get yours here)
Camden Valley Inn
The Camden Valley Inn is hosting a series of free activities for kids this coming school holiday period.
Activities such as a magic show, lawn games, a Minions outdoor movie night, a reptile show and hungerball arena will be available for kids to enjoy for free. No bookings are required.
Where: 290 Remembrance Drive, Cawdor
Fire Truck Visit at Crossroads Hotel
Take the kids to explore a real fire truck and meet the local fire brigade in this free and educational event. They can check out the equipment, ask the firefighters questions, and enjoy interactive displays, making it an unforgettable day for the whole family.
When: 12th October
Where: Crossroads Hotel, Casula
Cost: Free (No bookings required)
Day Trips for the School Holidays
Sometimes you need to get out of the city, and these day trips are worth the drive or train ride. We have a bunch of fun day trips you can do on the train, but here are a couple of our favourite ideas.
Spring in the Blue Mountains
The mountains are a great day out for active kids. You can take the train or drive. Either way, there is plenty to do when you get there from easy bushwalks to family-friendly picnic spots.
The Blue Mountains Explorer Bus is free for kids and a great way to explore the mountains without worrying about parking! We have written a detailed guide to the bus here.
If you decide to spend the night, take the Katoomba Falls Night-Lit Walk. Another unique experience is a nighttime visit to Scenic World.
You can even see how many of these lookouts you can squeeze into one day.
Bundeena
A train ride to Cronulla, a quick jaunt across Port Hacking on the little green and yellow ferry and a short stroll from the wharf and you will arrive at the Jibbon Aboriginal Carvings at Bundeena.
This is a fun day out for school age kids with some easy bushwalking and the possibility of whale spotting off the sandstone cliffs nearby. If you fancy a longer bushwalk, check out our guide to the walks in the Royal National Park.
School Holiday Dates in New South Wales
Below is a list of the holiday dates for this year and next so you can start planning. Please note many schools have school development days on the first day of each term. Private schools may have a week longer than these public school dates.
| Period | 2024 | 2025 |
| Autumn break: | 15 – 26 April | 14 April – 24 April |
| Winter break | 8 – 19 July | 7 – 18 July |
| Spring break: | 30 Sept – 11 October | 29 Sept – 10 October |
| Summer break: | 23 Dec – 30 Jan 2025 | 22 Dec – 26 January 2026 |
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