Pack the picnic basket: here’s your ultimate cheat sheet for Kids Day Out at Lanyon Homestead

Posted on 23 September, 2025

Spring has sprung in Canberra, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a day designed entirely around sparking young imaginations.

Kids Day Out is returning to the gorgeous grounds of Lanyon Homestead this Saturday, and trust us – this is one family adventure you won’t want to miss.

From hands-on science experiments to treasure hunts through heritage gardens, here’s everything you need to know about this delightful day out that’s got both kids and grown-ups covered.

What is it?

Photography: Andrew Sikorski

Picture this: acres of blooming gardens at a historic homestead, buzzing with curious kids creating art, discovering nature, and learning through play.

Kids Day Out transforms Lanyon Homestead into an interactive wonderland where every activity sparks curiosity and creativity. Following last year’s hugely popular event, this celebration of spring returns with even more ways for young minds to explore, experiment, and have an absolute ball.

The event perfectly blends education with entertainment – think cyanotype printing (yes, real science!), magnification stations where tiny insects become fascinating creatures, and treasure hunts that turn the heritage grounds into an adventure playground.

What’s happening?

Photography: Andrew Sikorski

Get ready for a day packed with discoveries. Kids can create their own cyanotype prints – a magical photography process that produces stunning blue images using nothing but sunlight and special paper. The Magnification Station opens up a whole new world where they’ll examine plants and animals up close, seeing details invisible to the naked eye.

The Lanyon Stamp Rally turns exploration into a game as families hunt for stations throughout the heritage gardens and historic outbuildings. Complete your rally card and you’ll go into the draw to win a family pass to CSO Live at Lanyon – a pretty sweet prize for a fun afternoon’s work.

Younger visitors aren’t forgotten either. There’s dedicated sensory play for toddlers, plus rain painting activities that celebrate the unpredictability of spring weather. Between activities, families can tour inside the historic homestead itself or simply spread out a picnic blanket on those magnificent lawns.

The grounds at Lanyon are particularly special during spring – as an Official Floriade Satellite Site, the gardens will be showing off their seasonal best with flowers in full bloom.

When is it happening?

Mark your calendars for Saturday, 27 September from 10 am to 2 pm.

The beauty of this event lies in its relaxed pace – once you arrive, you can stay all day and let the kids explore at their own rhythm.

How much does it cost?

Here’s the pricing breakdown for families:

• Children (4+ years): $20
• Toddlers (3 and under): $5
• Adults: $10
• Family pass (2 adults + 2 children): $50

The event caters specifically to children aged four and above, though younger siblings are welcome to tag along for discounted entry and can enjoy the gardens, lawn games, and sensory play areas.

What can I eat and drink?

Photography: Andrew Sikorski

Keep it simple or make it a proper picnic – the choice is yours. Pack your own feast and claim a spot on the expansive lawns, or grab something fresh from the on-site options.

There’s a classic sausage sizzle for easy kid-friendly food, a coffee cart for the caffeine-dependent adults, ice cream to celebrate the warmer weather, and the Homestead Café for those wanting something more substantial.

How do I get there?

Getting to Lanyon Homestead requires a bit of planning since it’s nestled in the rural beauty of Tharwa. The property sits about 250 metres south of Banks on Tharwa Drive – look for the unsealed driveway and remember to keep your speed down to 40kmh once you turn in.

Car parking is available on-site, though carpooling is recommended if possible. Public transport doesn’t run directly to the homestead, but buses service Lanyon Marketplace in Conder, where you can catch a taxi or rideshare for the final stretch.

If you’re travelling with someone who has mobility needs, there’s a people-mover service from the car park to the homestead and café – just look for the radio at the car park or chat with staff.

Good to know before you go

A few important notes: this is a smoke-free site, and pets aren’t permitted (except for service animals like guide dogs). The property includes livestock and sits among working farms, so the no-pets policy helps keep everyone safe.

Since you’ll be spending time outdoors on a working heritage property, comfortable enclosed shoes are essential. The grounds include uneven surfaces, historic gardens, and pathways that require a bit of care when walking. Pack weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a hat — the event runs rain or shine unless severe weather forces cancellation.

Finally, here’s something that’ll make your day even smoother – mobile reception can be patchy in this rural location, and wifi might be unreliable. While vendors will accept both EFTPOS and cash, it’s wise to bring both payment options just in case. The Homestead shop and café stick to EFTPOS only.

Oh, and since rubbish collection doesn’t extend to Lanyon Homestead, organisers ask families to take their rubbish home. Pack a bag for your waste and help keep this heritage site pristine for everyone to enjoy.