Two weeks of wonder: Canberra’s spring holiday lineup has something for every curious kid
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September’s crisp mornings might signal winter’s retreat, but they’re also announcing something far more exciting: the arrival of spring school holidays packed with adventures that’ll make kids forget all about screen time.
From crafting magical potions to building bears, Canberra’s spring break offerings read more like a choose-your-own-adventure book than a typical holiday program list.
Whether your little ones are budding scientists, aspiring performers, or simply love getting their hands dirty with creative projects, this year’s lineup promises two weeks of discovery that’ll have them bouncing out of bed each morning.
Spring Family Day with Costa Georgiadis
The National Portrait Gallery celebrates the unveiling of Costa Georgiadis’s portrait with a free family day packed with creative activities. Costa, beloved Gardening Australia host and environmental educator, joins visitors for story times, workshops and conversations with artist Rob McHaffie.
Activities include plant swaps, badge making, collage workshops with the artist, interactive portrait tours, and live music with food stalls. Families can drop in anytime between 10 am–4 pm to enjoy the Spring Family Space, face painting, and nature-inspired crafts.
The day concludes with a sensory hour for visitors preferring quieter experiences, marking Costa’s selection as The People’s Portrait winner.
Can’t make Spring Family Day? Drop into the gallery’s Family Space these school holidays for a range of free, creative activities to celebrate all things Spring. From creating wearable floral masterpieces to exploring the Ngunnawal seasons through a sensory trail, there is something to engage everyone in the family. Activities are inspired by the bold and beautiful botanical exhibition, In Bloom.
Saturday 27 September, 10 am-4 pm | National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | portrait.gov.au
Jon & Jero: STUFF! at The Q
Following successful shows like Trash Test Dummies Circus and Mr Snotbottom, The Q presents this interactive comedy experience with two of Melbourne’s goofiest performers. The high-energy hour combines physical comedy, characters, music, improvisation and most importantly, STUFF!
The show follows two bumbling brothers who need audience help to retrieve their stolen belongings, taking everyone on an epic journey across strange and wonderful lands. This delightful adventure explores friendship, hopefulness, exploration and connection, wrapped in imagination for ages 5 and up.
Friday 10 October | The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre | theq.net.au
Bears, bungee and Thomas at Canberra Outlet
Canberra Outlet transforms into a wonderland of free entertainment from Monday 6 to Sunday 12 October.
The magic begins with Build-A-Bear workshops where 100 free bears are given away daily (first in, best dressed with 50 bears per session at 11am and 1pm outside Lindt). Kids can also meet a life-sized Build-A-Bear character for the ultimate photo opportunity.
Thomas the Tank Engine offers free train rides from 11am to 2:30pm outside Freedom, while thrill-seekers can experience the Bungee Tramp Extreme outside Kathmandu from 11am to 3pm.
Keep an eye on Canberra Outlet’s social media to learn how to claim a golden ticket for a free jump.
Monday 6 to Sunday 12 October, 11 am and 1 pm | Outside Lindt, Canberra Outlet, Fyshwick | canberraoutlet.com.au
Family friendly screenings and immersive wonder at the NFSA
Arc Cinema bursts with family favourites these school holidays, including Alice in Wonderland, 101 Dalmatians, Secret Garden and Maleficent. See what’s on here.
While you’re at the NFSA, experience Inferno the immersive installation by internationally recognised Australian artist Mikaela Stafford before it opens to the public. This free audiovisual experience blends monumental 3D motion graphics, kinetic sculpture and dynamic lighting with a powerful soundscape by composer Kate Durman. The sci-fi-infused world explores identity, memory and matter through a hyperreal journey anchored by a large-scale resin sculpture emerging from a 12-metre digital screen.
Until 16 November | NFSA Gallery & Courtyard, McCoy Circuit, Acton | nfsa.gov.au
ZAP! CLANK! POW! at Questacon
This exhibition offers a fresh take on some old favourites from Questacon’s past three decades, designed with little scientists in mind while ensuring everyone enjoys the experience.
Featuring 17 highly interactive exhibits, visitors get hands-on as they explore the exciting world of electricity, machines, and motion.
The comic book theme running throughout keeps all ages entertained while they discover scientific principles through play.
Until Sunday 1 February 2026 | Questacon, King Edward Terrace, Parkes | questacon.edu.au
Time travel to 1975 with the National Library
Curious about daily life in the past? Join the Library’s Education team for a journey back 50 years to explore the new exhibition 1975: Living in the Seventies.
Children aged 6-10 will discover fascinating aspects of seventies life, then create responses to the fashion and food from that era. All craft materials are supplied, and adult supervision is required though carers don’t need separate tickets.
Tuesday 1 October, 10:30 am | National Library of Australia, Parkes | library.gov.au
Lights, camera, superstars!
Marketplace Gungahlin transforms into a creative entertainment hub with hands-on workshops designed for aspiring stars. Two distinct programs run simultaneously across different locations, offering children opportunities to craft their own celebrity memorabilia and movie props.
The Superstars sessions take place outside Big W, where participants create bedazzled sunglasses, VIP passes, personalised drums, and custom drumsticks across rotating four-day workshops. Meanwhile, the Movie Stars program operates on Level 1 near Daily Market Grocer, featuring Hollywood-themed activities including star creation, film strip painting, Grammy trophy making, and wooden camera construction.
Advance bookings required. All materials and instruction are provided, with completed creations ready to take home.
Thursday 25 September to Sunday 12 October | Marketplace Gungahlin, outside Big W & Level 1 | marketplace.net.au
Canberra Circus Festival
An incredible line-up of Australian and international circus brings laughs, gasps and excitement to the ACT. Expect full-length shows in the May Wirth bigtop, outdoor performances, street artists, roving performers, workshops, food, circus market and unusual attractions create fun for the whole family. Buy show tickets or bring a picnic blanket for the full day experience.
Warehouse Circus is also taking enrolments for their ever-popular school holiday program, which teaches circus skills, confidence, fitness and creativity.
Friday 26 September until Monday 5 October | The May Wirth Big Top, Chifley Community Oval | canberracircusfestival.com.au
Blooming lovely activities at Canberra Centre
Canberra Centre presents three distinct experiences running throughout the school holidays.
Bloom Lab transforms Centre Court into an interactive installation inspired by Floriade, blending science, art and Canberra design. The hands-on experience features a blueprint-style forest floor and three activity stations–Sew, Smell and Sizzle–where children create pinwheels, hunt for garden creatures, and capture photos at a floral explosion backdrop. The centrepiece reimagines Clem Cummings’ iconic 1974 Canberra bus shelter design, evolving as children add their own decorated petals and leaves throughout the holidays.
Australia’s most decorated female Paralympian Ellie Cole visits on 2 October for a book signing celebrating her debut children’s book Felix and His Fantastic Friends, a story championing inclusion, friendship and belonging. The first 50 attendees receive a free signed copy.
The popular Grill’d Kids Masterclass returns with sessions exploring the science of burger making. Children learn about healthy ingredients while creating and enjoying their own burgers in the Bloom Lab workshop space. Bookings essential.
Bloom Lab: Saturday, 27 September–Sunday, 12 October, 11 am–2 pm | Ellie Cole: Thursday, 2 October, 11 am | Grill’d Masterclass: Sessions run on 30 September, 1, 7 and 8 October, 3–4 pm | Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra City | canberracentre.com.au
Canberra Airport Runway Tour
During the school holidays, Canberra Airport is offering an exclusive behind-the-scenes bus tour of the airport. The Runway Tour will be led by Canberra Airport staff as they share information about aircraft operations, interesting aviation facts, and more!
Tours will run for approximately 30 mins (subject to air traffic), departing from Canberra Airport. More information will be provided once your spot is confirmed.
Tours are recommended for children 7+ years.
Tuesday 30 September, 10 am and 11 am | Canberra Airport | eventbrite.com.au
Camp for junior coders
Code Camp is a school holiday workshop for kids aged five to 13 who love technology and winter school holiday bookings are now open. Whether your child is a tech whiz, a budding artist or the next biggest DJ, there’s something on offer for every interest.
Monday 6 to Friday 10 October | Various venues | codecamp.com.au
Animal fun at the National Zoo and Aquarium
The National Zoo and Aquarium presents its ‘Animal Mysteries’ themed programming, diving into science and nature through interactive, educational and entertaining activities focused on the mysteries of the animal kingdom.
Daily storytelling sessions in the Viewing Park explore fascinating animal facts, while special lion keeper talks provide behind-the-scenes insights with a focus on animal mysteries. Roving puppet shows add theatrical fun throughout the park, and visitors can celebrate new lion cub Nyra as she experiences her first zoo school holidays.
Saturday 27 September to Sunday 12 October | National Zoo and Aquarium, Yarralumla | nationalzoo.com.au
Magical herb workshops at The H Dispensary
Step into a magical spring holiday program where children discover the wonders of herbs, natural wellness, and plant-based creations. Each affordable 30-90 minute workshop sparks imagination and hands-on creativity for ages four through teens.
Children can make herb-infused dough, craft fairy remedies in potion play sessions, weave spring flower crowns, or create DIY oracle mists and cards. Other enchanting options include enjoying rainbow tea parties, growing magical herb gardens, blending natural perfumes, making lip balms and body butters, mixing herbal teas, and creating bath salts.
Saturday 27 September to Monday 13 October | The H Dispensary, 6 Barker Street, Griffith | thehdispensary.com
Mount Stromlo Observatory astronomy programs
The ANU and Mount Stromlo Observatory offer immersive astronomy programs that combine science discovery with hands-on activities.
The Junior Explorers program (Years 4–6) takes young astronomers through Solar System Discovery, behind-the-scenes field exploration, and culminates in Mars Mission team challenges including rocket building and trivia. The program includes games, art and craft, stories from the night sky, and a special Family Night featuring presentations and stargazing.
The Youth program (Years 7–9) provides a deeper dive into real astronomy research, with participants conducting mini research projects alongside professional astronomers, learning Aboriginal astronomy, and developing science communication skills through final presentations to family and friends.
Junior Explorers: Tuesday 30 September to Thursday 2 October. Youth Program: Monday 29 September to Thursday 2 October | Mount Stromlo Observatory | rsaa.anu.edu.au
Red Shed rowing programs
Red Shed offers rowing programs perfect for introducing children to this graceful water sport during the school holidays.
The “Learn to Row” program specifically caters to kids who are new to rowing or still building confidence on the water. Participants learn proper technique while enjoying three hours per day on the water under expert instruction.
This program is perfect for both new and continuing rowers, offering a fantastic opportunity to develop teamwork, enhance fitness, and experience a dynamic sport.
Monday 29 September to Friday 10 October | Red Shed Rowing, Lake Burley Griffin | redshed.org.au
Creative workshops at the National Museum
The National Museum of Australia offers three distinct creative workshops these holidays.
Sock puppetry with beloved puppeteer Marianne Mettes allows children aged 5-12 to craft colourful puppet friends using textured materials in drop-in sessions.
The Hurry Upcycling workshop explores sustainable design with creative designers from the Alastair Swayn Foundation, where children aged 8-12 learn about Norman Hetherington’s approach to sustainability through the Mr Squiggle and Friends exhibition before creating their own whimsical projects from recycled materials.
For teens aged 12-17, the ReUse. ReThink. ReMake workshop provides an engaging introduction to design thinking and creative problem solving, transforming recycled materials into innovative, functional or fantastical creations.
Mondau 29 September to Friday 10 October | National Museum of Australia, Acton Peninsula | nma.gov.au
Haig Park Village Markets school holiday activities
Three jam-packed weekends bring exciting activities and workshops for children throughout the school holidays.
The collaboration between Haig Park Village Markets and the City Renewal Authority creates a vibrant atmosphere with magical potion-making workshops, nature play sensory stations, snake encounters, and endangered wildlife mask-making activities.
Families can enjoy live music and delicious food while children explore and create, with all activities offered completely free.
Sunday 28 September, 5 and 12 October | Haig Park Village Markets, Braddon | haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au
Art Steps collaboration at the National Gallery
Thai installation artist Korakrit Arunanondchai invites children aged 5-12 and their families to create a mixed media and video artwork together in this unique 90-minute experience.
Inspired by the artist’s process in creating works for the New Asian Art exhibition, participants become both makers and collaborators in a living artwork. Children and adults paint directly onto black-and-white film stills using the same tactile technique the artist employs, with the painted stills later gathered and re-sequenced into a new stop-motion animation video.
Monday 29 September to Wednesday 8 October, 10.30 am & 1.30 pm | Tim Fairfax Learning Studio Level 2, National Gallery of Australia, Parkes | nga.gov.au
Terrarium Workshop for Kids & Teens – Creative School Holiday Fun!
In this 1.5-hour hands-on workshop, kids and teens will create their own miniature terrarium to take home while exploring science, sustainability, and design. They’ll learn about soil layers, microclimates, and plant care, then decorate with natural and upcycled materials. Children can even bring a small personal item like a LEGO mini fig to personalise their terrarium!
With eco-conscious supplies, a fully accessible venue, and a WWVP-registered facilitator, this workshop is safe, inclusive, and fun. Perfect for sparking creativity, curiosity, and a love of nature these school holidays.
The workshops are being held in two locations: Gungahlin and Greenway.
Gungahlin: Wednesday 1 October, 9–10:30 am (kids) 11–12:30 pm (teens) | Birralee Scout Hall – Gungahlin, 5 The Valley Avenue, Gungahlin | events.humanitix.com
Greenway: Friday 3 October, 9–10:30 am (kids) 11–12:30 pm (teens) | Communities at Work – Tuggeranong Community Centre – Balcony Room, 245 Cowlishaw Street, Greenway | events.humanitix.com
Art and action at Tuggeranong Arts
Tuggeranong Arts Centre’s one-day Art and Action program is an action-packed visual and performing arts school holiday explosion of creative joy.
Everyone will start the day playing theatre sports and other drama games before breaking into smaller classes based on age. Students will take part in art classes exploring painting on canvas, with the opportunity to take home their masterpieces at the end of the day.
Fresh Funk dance tutors will introduce young ones to Street-funk dance, giving participants the opportunity to learn a dance routine and have fun exploring this popular style of dance.
After lunch, musicians Katie and Jess Cole will lead high-energy music sessions where everyone gets involved, in fun collaborative music making.
Thursday 2 October, 9:30 am–3 pm | Tuggeranong Arts Centre | tuggeranongarts.com
Economics for Kids 1 & 2 book launch
Get along to The Book Cow in Kingston for a fantastic school holiday Boredom Buster double book launch. Dr Helen Hoang joins for a double celebration of her books Economics for Kids 1 & 2!, taking guests through the book creation process and basics of economic. There’ll also be a reading, a book signing, a quiz and plenty more!
Economics for Kids is where children discover the world of economics and finance through engaging storytelling and beautifully illustrated books. Each story is designed to make essential economic concepts easy to understand and fun to learn, helping kids build a strong foundation in financial literacy from an early age.
Thursday, 2 October, 11 am–12 pm | The Book Cow, Green Square, Kingston | events.humanitix.com
