And right now the Melbourne ice skating scene is buzzing as winter hits and ice skating season begins (although many ice skating rinks are open year-round).

Melbourne has a number of great places to go and enjoy an ice skating experience with the whole family. From the large outdoor public ice rinks to the smaller ice skating rinks located inside shopping centres and arcades, you can bet that this city has it all. 

We love skating in the winter season! Not only does it offer tons of winter holiday fun but also poses a great opportunity to go out and get moving.

Each of these ice skating rinks is well worth a visit, but before you lace up those skates, here’s some info you’ll need to know about some of the best places to go ice skating Melbourne wide.

Ice Skating Melbourne

1. Winter in Williamstown, Williamstown

Escape to Winter in Williamstown this season and embrace the festive spirit at Commonwealth Reserve from 28 June to 14 July 2024.

Lace up your skates for a glide across the synthetic ice rink, marvel at the mesmerizing Winter Lights Display, and enjoy live entertainment with DJ sets and roving performers.

Williamstown Ice Skating in the Park:

• All abilities are welcome! 
• Session running: 12pm – 6pm Sun to Wed, 12pm – 8pm Thurs to Sat
• $1 Children, $5 Adults (13+) plus booking fees
• Skates included
• Penguin helper hire is FREE for small children (pre-book)

Winter in Williamstown, (From 12 pm daily, Sat 28 June to Sun 14 July 2024) Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown VIC 3016

Book ice skating tickets here

2. Eynesbury Winter Festival, Eynesbury

Opening on Thursday 27 June the Eynesbury Winter Festival – a spot that’s perfect for ice skating in Melbourne and for enjoying some tasty winter food and drinks, plus a bunch of other winter activities. 

The winter celebration offers so much for families to see and do. On top of the hourly superstar ice skating experience, you’ll also get to be entertained by the live music and performances, wander the winter market and much more.

Eynesbury Winter Festival is a perfect winter outing and a destination that is a contender for best ice skating rink Melbourne wide. The festival is free to enter but you’ll have to pre-book tickets for the ice rink, sessions start at $15.

Eynesbury Winter Festival, 479 Eynesbury Road, Eynesbury, +61 3 9971 0414, events@eynesbury.com.au.

3. O’Brien Ice House, Docklands

Known as Australia’s premier Olympic ice sports venue, The O’Brien Icehouse is a HUGE ice skating rink with great facilities that is open all year round for skating. So if you’re looking to have some fun ice skating Docklands might just be the destination for you! 

This rink is open seven days a week and offers ice skating classes, parties and events and school group bookings. It also has an onsite cafe and bar.

O’Brien Icehouse, 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands, 1300 75 66 99, Info@obriengrouparena.com.au

4. Olympic Ice Skating Centre, Oakleigh

Skating enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the public ice skating sessions at the Olympic Ice Skating Centre. The location is a training ground for future Olympians and offers free skate rental, along with free parking. 

This spot is one of the nicest around and is definitely worth checking out If you’re looking for a great place to go ice skating as it’s perfect for a family outing and you’re sure to have a blast!

Olympic Ice Skating Centre, 1080 Centre Road, Oakleigh South, +61 3 9579 3755

5. Ice HQ, Reservoir

Formerly known as the Puckhandlers inline hockey stadium, Ice HQ is an indoor Ice Skating Rink that’s been transformed into a state-of-the-art ice skating centre for ice hockey games, lessons and general ice skating sessions. 

Ice HQ is open for ice skating daily except on wednesdays. However, the rinks schedules may change from time to time so it would be best to check first before you vist.

Ice HQ, 1 Blake St, Reservoir, +61 3 9478 2876

6. Ballarat Winter Festival, Ballarat

The Ballarat Winter Festival is a celebration of the city’s signature season and for 2024 the joyous celebration is set to take place from 29 June to 21 July 2024! 

On top of the unique events and various winter offerings, you can bet that one of the long awaited activities for the festival is the ever popular pop-up ice skating rink which will only be up for a limited three-week season (so it would be best to book your tickets online now to avoid missing out.)

Be sure to take the time to visit the Sovereign Hill Winter Wonderlights while you’re in town as well as eating and drinking your way through Ballarat’s burgeoning food scene.

Ballarat Winter Festival, Armstrong Street South, Ballarat Central, 1800 44 66 33, events@ballarat.vic.gov.au

Ballarat Winter Festival is your Family Getaway Destination This Winter School Holidays

Places to Ski, Enjoy Snow Play and Ice Skating in Melbourne & Victoria

Click here for my 10 tips for a family ski trip or snow holiday

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Answer: Melbourne Museum!

Trust me, you’ll never hear “I’m boooored’ when your kids get to explore two storeys of curiosity and wonder, plus they always put on an excellent school holiday program.

Even better, general admission to Melbourne Museum is always free for kids 16 and under!

Playbound is the home of fun these Winter School Holidays

These winter school holidays, Melbourne Museum‘s program of special events and exhibitions is part of Playbound, a dynamic children’s festival taking over Melbourne from 29 June to 14 July 2024.  

The creative children’s festival features over 40 programs spread across 14 city venues, offering interactive experiences grounded in play, nature, science, and imagination.

Playbound is presented by Museums Victoria, in partnership with the City of Melbourne, ArtPlay, Melbourne Recital Centre, Road to Zero and Gowrie Victoria

Here are some of the highlights at Melbourne Museum!

1. Victoria the T. rex Opening Weekend Dinosaur Party

Join the roaring fun at Melbourne Museum’s Dinosaur Party celebrating the opening of the Victoria the T. rex exhibition!

From mask-making to scavenger hunts, kids of all ages can enjoy a prehistoric adventure included with museum entry.

Get creative with 3-D T. rex masks, explore fossils with pop-up activities, and meet a real dinosaur lover for fascinating insights.

Hunt for 100 tiny dinosaurs, dance at the Dino Disco, and even meet a baby Triceratops up close.

It’s a weekend filled with dinosaur excitement and interactive learning that’s sure to delight both young and old palaeontology enthusiasts.

Sat 29 June + Sun 30 June from 10 am to 4.30 pm

2.  Build your own T. rex Masks

Step into the exciting world of dinosaurs at Melbourne Museum and craft your own T. rex mask during the Playbound festival these school holidays.

Discover the incredible strength of the T. rex’s bite while engaging in a hands-on activity that combines creativity and science.

Channel your inner palaeontologist as you colour and construct your very own T. rex mask, creating a unique piece of prehistoric art to take home.

It’s a great before or after stop combined with a visit to Melbourne Museum’s iconic Dinosaur Walk.

Sat 29 Jun until Sun 14 Jul 2024

3. NAIDOC Week Family Day

Melbourne Museum invites you to kick off NAIDOC Week with a special Family Day filled with engaging activities and performances on Sunday 7 July 2024.

The theme “Blak, Loud and Proud” celebrates Indigenous identity through the reclamation of narratives and the amplification of voices.

Witness a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, enjoy performances, and join maker activities like designing your own Kooyang Eel and learning about Dancing Dragonflies.

Explore exhibitions like “Biik Milboo Dhumba” and “Piinpi” showcasing Indigenous art and fashion. Listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue to foster a society where Indigenous wisdom and contributions are valued and respected.

This evocative and beautifully designed space is one of our favourite permanent exhibitions at Melbourne Museum. 

4. Scavenger Hunt and Competition

Embark on an epic quest at Melbourne Museum to find 100 tiny dinosaurs scattered throughout the galleries!

Follow the trail of these miniature creatures as they make their way to welcome Victoria T. rex. Delve into the Dinosaur Walk and Gandel Gondwana Garden to uncover hidden dinosaur stickers and unscramble letters for a special code word.

Discover the shiny Crystal T. rex for a chance to win a grand prize pack worth $500! With each dinosaur found, learn more about these fascinating prehistoric creatures and their world.

Sat 29 Jun until Sun 14 Jul 2024

5. Join a tiny guided tour

Tiny Tours is where youngsters aged 3 to 5 can discover the enchanting world of museum objects like never before. Led by expert guides, this 45-minute adventure focuses on the significance of small wonders in a world dominated by giants.

From unravelling mysteries of 600 million years ago to uncovering the fate of the dinosaurs, children will be immersed in a captivating learning experience.

Every Friday at 10 am and 11.30 am.

6. Road to Zero Scavenger Hunt

Gear up for an exciting and informative experience at the Road to Zero Scavenger Hunt.

Visit the interactive Road to Zero gallery and engage in a thrilling scavenger hunt that combines entertainment with learning about pedestrian and cycling safety.

Work together with your family to solve puzzles and uncover the key principles of road safety, making this a memorable and educational experience for all.

Suited to children aged 4 to 13.

Mon 1 Jul to Sat 13 July (excluding Sun 7 July), from 10am to 3pm.

7. Explore the nature play space.

Gandel Gondwana Garden is an outdoor nature play space, suitable for children aged six to twelve but open to visitors of all ages, that offers a rich exploration of Australia’s natural history and Indigenous culture.

Roam through diverse ecosystems, encounter prehistoric megafauna, and immerse yourself in the stories of Creation as you traverse the garden’s interactive exhibits. 

Gandel Gondwana Garden is included with museum entry.

8. From Little Things…

Make sure you visit the Mini Mega Model Museum!

This quirky exhibition presents intriguing miniatures and small things in unexpectedly huge sizes, with opportunities to press buttons to operate models and interact with exhibits in fun ways.

It’s been one of the most popular temporary exhibitions with my kids, with requests to visit time and time again. 

Mini Mega Model Museum is included with museum entry.

9. Get curious with your little ones

The Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery is one of the most popular locations for families at Melbourne Museum, full of sensory experiences and hands-on exhibits.

Inside and outside, there are so many opportunities for fun and delight with your little ones. Dig for dinosaurs, pump the bubbles, colour butterflies and more!

Note that the Children’s Gallery requires a separate entry booking in order to manage capacity, so make sure that you book a timeslot at the same time as booking your Museum ticket so you don’t miss out. 

10. Step into an urban forest

When you need some peace and tranquility, take a deep, cleansing breath of fresh mountain air when you enter the Forest Gallery. 

Located at the heart of Melbourne Museum, this unique natural space abounds with hidden creatures – it’s a wonderful place to play a little game of ‘I Spy’ with the kids. 

This post was published in partnership with Melbourne Museum

The post Why Melbourne Museum Should Be On Your Hit-List These Winter School Holidays (2024) appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

Scienceworks WINTER School Holiday Program

1. Air Playground

Air Playground welcomes curious kids and their families to play with air, the amazing invisible force, and experience the science of aerodynamics.  Whoosh, swirl, gust, squish, flow, float and more!

Float objects in mid-air, place material in fast-moving air-jets, squish a giant inflatable tentacle sculpture with your body, launch balls sky-high with compressed air, craft paper planes to soar and more.   

Air Playground, 30 March 2024 – 6 October 2024 | Daily | 10:00am – 4:30pm | Adult $25, Senior $20, Child $10, Concession $10, Member $8 | Includes Scienceworks entry 

2. Air-Palooza

Immerse yourself in the wonders of air at a free 20-minute live science show, Air-Palooza.

Uncover these secrets of invisible forces, witness levitation demonstrations, and explore the fascinating power of air pressure through interactive experiments.   

Air-Palooza 29 June 2024 – 14 July 2024 | Daily | 12:00pm and 2:00pm | Included with Scienceworks entry 

3. Guided Highlights Tour

For the first time ever, visitors can explore the museum on a guided tour!

With a knowledgeable guide, encounter some of Scienceworks’ truest treasures, including the world’s oldest surviving first-generation electronic computer, the Da Vinci Surgical System (the first ever used in Australia), a 4.5-billion-year-old meteorite and much more.

Guided Highlights Tour, 29 June 2024 – 14 July 2024 | Daily | 1:30 pm | Adult $25, Senior $20, Child $10, Concession $10, Member $8 | Includes Scienceworks entry 

4. FlushBack

FlushBack, Scienceworks’ new, award-winning AR adventure, brings to life the awe-inspiring heritage-listed Spotswood Pumping Station. 

Travel back to 1942 and complete challenges based on real historical events. You must ensure the Pumping Station continues to operate so Melbourne doesn’t turn back into ‘Smellbourne’!

You’ll be guided by actual workers from the past, brought to life on your device using augmented reality (AR). They will introduce you to each of the major components that enabled the Pumping Station to pump Melbourne’s sewage away from the city for treatment. 

FlushBack, 29 June 2024 – 14 July 2024 | Daily | 1:00pm & 2:00pm | $3, $2 Museum Members 

5. Planetarium Shows

Book into the Planetarium and enjoy an out-of-this-world show exclusive to Scienceworks.  

11:00am – Tycho Goes to Mars 

12:00pm – Solar System Adventures: Where’s the Water?   

1:00pm – Starlight 

2:00pm – Solar System Adventures: Where’s the Water?   

3:00pm – Capturing the Cosmos

4:00pm – Dark Side of the Moon 

Planetarium Shows, 30 March 2024 – 14 April 2024 | Daily | $10 child and concession / $8 Museum Members 

6. Lightning Room Shows

Take a seat in our Lightning Room and be mesmerised by The Glow Show, a stunning 30-minute live science show.

Explore the fascinating processes behind luminosity, including the many ways a glow can be produced. Discover the science of fluorescence, how animals can appear bright at night and the brilliant, coloured effects of using different materials to make light.

In the spectacular finale, witness a giant Tesla coil light up the theatre with lightning using more than 2 million volts of electricity 

Lightning Room Shows, 30 March 2024 – 14 April 2024 | Daily | 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm and 2:00pm | $10 child and concession / $8 Museum Members | Includes Scienceworks entry 

7. Pumping Station Orientation

Sniff out some of the smelly stories from the pumping station straining well and explore the magnificent engine room, marvelling at the engineering feat that helped overcome the stench of 19th century Melbourne in daily Pumping Station tours. 

Pumping Station Tours are available every day and run for thirty minutes. However, do note that the tours are sometimes closed for private events so it would be best to check Scienework’s What’s On Page first to see if tours are running.

Pumping Station tours 30 March 2024 – 14 April 2024 | Daily | 11:00am | Included with Scienceworks entry  

8. Collection Store Tours

Take an exclusive look behind the scenes with a tour of the Scienceworks Collection Store. 

Get a glimpse of some of the rare 40,000 collection items stored at Scienceworks, and hear some amazing stories belonging to these unique objects. 

Collection Store Tours, 30 March 2024 – 14 April 2024 | Daily | 12:00pm and 2:00pm | Included with Scienceworks entry 

Check out the Scienceworks’ must-do permanent exhibitions including Ground Up and Beyond Perception

Eat and drink at Grazeland next door

Click here for more things to do in Melbourne this Winter

The post Hands-On Fun: Winter School Holidays At Scienceworks 2024 appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

1. Winter Street Party Werribee (Fri 28 Jun) – See the city light up after dark, with beautiful light installations, street performers, kids’ activities and warming winter treats from city traders.
2. Docklands Firelight Festival (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 30 Jun) – the traditions of a winter solstice and a modern celebration of arts, music, food, fire and fun.
3. EID @ FOOTSCRAY (Sat 29 Jun) – Immerse yourself in the vibrant Eid festivities of the many Muslim cultures that enrich multicultural Maribyrnong. Experience: food samplings, Ethiopian coffee, Henna, interactive arts, communal prayers and Qawwali.
4. School Holidays: Winter Wonderland Creations (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 5 Jul) – The school holidays are just around the corner and we are thrilled to invite you to an enchanting week of winter-themed activities that will delight the whole family!
5. Winter Wonderland (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 5 Jul) – Join the fun at our free winter themed school holidays! Sensory craft, an igloo photobooth and even a scavenger hunt.
6. FREE School Holiday Fun! (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Enjoy Free School Holiday Fun, where kids can participate in an interactive ‘Kids in the Kitchen’ workshop during week 1, followed by a week of engaging mindful activities such as kids yoga, coloring, and bead craft in week 2.
7. Winter School Holidays at Queen Victoria Market (Tue 2 Jul, Thu 4 Jul, Tue 9 Jul, and Thu 11 Jul) – Get ready for a giant tumble of geometric planks, where little ones can explore their creativity and collaboration as they create giant shapes to craft larger-than-life snowflakes.
8. Kids Takeover: After Dark (Wed 3 Jul) – Let your kids take charge at this one-day winter extravaganza, where they’ll dominate the Library with arts, hip-hop, magic, and more.
9. Firefly Night Market (Sat 6 Jul) – fun for the whole family with roving performers, interactive art, street food, artisan stalls, cultural activities and live performances.
10. NAIDOC Week 2024 Dandenong Market (Sun 7 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Recognising the history and achievement of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander peoples, this event contributes to the movement for our elders and original owners of the land both past and present.
11. NAIDOC Week Oration by Uncle Charles Pakana (Mon 8 Jul) – This year Moonee Valley’s NAIDOC Week events will commence with a NAIDOC-themed oration delivered by Uncle Charles Pakana at the Incinerator Gallery.
12. NAIDOC Week: Indigenous Cultural Presentation on Fire (Tue 9 Jul) – Discover the importance of fire and smoke in this educational Indigenous presentation.
13. NAIDOC Week Children’s Craft Workshops (Tue 9 Jul) – Join for FREE NAIDOC Week children’s craft workshops. Let the kids enjoy painting and colouring during these school holidays.
14. Kids Passport Queen Victoria Market (Every market day) – Collect your passport, then journey around the Market collecting stamps from our friendly traders, before making your way to the Queen Victoria Market Visitor Hub to claim your prize.
15. Winter Night Market (Wed 5 Jun – Wed 28 Aug) – Rug up in your winter woollies and head to the Market for Melbourne’s best street food trucks and stalls, local brewers and distillers, shopping and lively entertainment.
16. Aboriginal Housing Victoria’s annual NAIDOC Family Day (Wed 10 Jul) -The theme of NAIDOC Week 2024, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,” celebrates the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture, with fire symbolizing connection to Country, community, and traditions
17. Josh Deane: Crackle of the Cockatoos (Wed 10 Jul – Tue 16 Jul) – This intriguing installation by Palawa contemporary artist Josh Deane features a group of paper mache cockatoos, with each sculpture incorporating paper as a tribute to the library environment.
18. NAIDOC Exhibition Opening: Keep The Fire Burning (Thu 11 Jul) – Bluethumb is pleased to announce its annual NAIDOC week exhibition, ‘Keep The Fire Burning,’ which is dedicated to supporting the creative endeavours of Indigenous artists.
19. BLAKtivism. Build Blak Power. Fight for Change​ (Thu 11 Jul) – At this reflective and provocative panel event, Bebe Oliver discusses the currency of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander activism, guided by Laniyuk, Apryl Day and Iluka Sax-Williams.
20. NAIDOC Week: The Little Long Walk at EF (Thu 11 Jul) – For the third year, join us this NAIDOC Week for the Little Long Walk at Essendon Fields.
21. Haus of Dizzy Charm Bracelet Workshop​ (Thu 11 Jul) – Welcome to the ultimate bling-tastic workshop with self-confessed ‘Queen of Bling’, Wiradjuri designer Kristy Dickinson of Haus of Dizzy. Kristy’s jewellery celebrates and honours Aboriginal culture through bold and statement-making accessories.
22. NAIDOC 2024 KHT NAIDOC Market (Fri 12 Jul – Sat 13 Jul) – The 2024 NAIDOC Week theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud, and Proud,” symbolizing the enduring strength, vitality, and traditions of First Peoples cultures.
23. NAIDOC in the City​​ (Fri 12 Jul) – Following the annual NAIDOC march, NAIDOC in the City is an exciting celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, achievements and talents.
24. Bastille Day French Festival (Sat 13 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Shop from local French stallholders, indulge in mouth-watering delicacies, plus delight in traditional dance and musical performances from French jazz, Mauritian bands and mime artists!
25. NAIDOC WEEK CELEBRATION 2024 (Sat 13 Jul) – Each year NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia to acknowledge the rich history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
26. Melbourne Zoo Com​munity Day (Sun 14 Jul) – Join us to close out NAIDOC week with a range of First Nations led activities for children, young people and families. A collaboration by Aboriginal Melbourne and Melbourne Zoo.
27. Junior Ranger Bush Food and Bizarre Bugs​​ (Sun 14 Jul) – Kids! Why are bugs important to the world? What is bush food? Discover the answer to these questions and more in these activities led by City of Melbourne Park Rangers and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
28. Linden New Art’s NAIDOC Week Community Day (Sun 14 Jul) – Linden New Art’s NAIDOC Week Community Day promises an engaging blend of cultural immersion and community building.
29. Free Guided Walk (Until Tue 31 Dec) – Led by a passionate guide, discover sensational views and the remarkable plant diversity of this sanctuary in the middle of bustling Melbourne.
30. Seek and Find Nature Cards (Until Sun 31 Dec) Set your young ones on an adventure exploring nature with our Seek and Find Nature Cards to be used at Melbourne Gardens or download the cards and go exploring in your own neighbourhood.
31. Free face painting Prahran Market (Thursdays) – face painter, Alysha, from Paint The Party.
32. Prahran Market Mini Marketeers (Tuesdays) – Enjoy free, guided activities teaching toddlers the fundamentals of eating well and putting the ‘yum’ in healthy food choices.
33. ECOSS Valley Market (Fridays) – Experience the vibrant Valley Markets, connecting local growers, artisans, and musicians in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
34. Eynesbury Winter Festival (Thur 27 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – The perfect winter outing for the entire family! Hit the ice rink, enjoy some tasty winter food & drinks and more.
35. Junior Rangers (Ongoing) – Parks Victoria Ranger guided activities in various locations. Including Minibeast Discovery at Brimbank Park and Organ Pipes National Park.  Read the Junior Rangers review.
36. NGV TEENS: DROP BY AND MAKE A BUSH FLOWER WITH SOPHIE HONESS (Daily) – This school holidays, join artist Sophie Honess in a free workshop making a bush flower inspired pom-pom to decorate your school bag. Together with the NGV Teen Council, meet like-minded people and develop your skills at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Fed Square
37. The Story of the Moving Image (ongoing) – Journey through the past, present and future of the moving image through interactive experiences, digital innovation and captivating stories. ACMI review.
38. Shrine Kids (ongoing) – free discovery trail for children at the Shrine of Remembrance. Shrine Kids review
39. Bunnings D.I.Y Kids Workshop (Sat 8 Jul – Sun 9 Jul) – Get your kids to build their own crate for free in stores where they’ll be rewarded with a ‘License To D.I.Y’ certificate once their masterpiece is complete!
40. KNOX events, activities and festivals for everyone (Mon 26 Jun – Tue 26 Sep) – Explore a wide range of activities, festivals, and events happening near you. Join in the fun and embrace the vibrant community spirit.
41. Mini Twitchers Heide (ongoing) – Be a twitcher for a day and spot some beautiful birds in the Heide Sculpture park! Use a map to locate each area where the twelve painted birds are hidden in trees in the sculpture park. Children under 16 FREE.
42. Eastland (Ongoing) – Sign up to the free mini & me kids club at Eastland (for kids 4 and under) and receive exclusive offers, invites to free events, and $5 valet parking! FREE.

Also remember that your local library and Melbourne Library Service hold free events plus check out the free ongoing Shrine Kids discovery trail for children at the Shrine of Remembrance. Full review.

Finally check out the following lists for free inspiration:

• Best indoor places for kids;
• Melbourne’s best libraries; and
• Best playgrounds for older kids.

Click here for winter school holiday events in Melbourne- CBD and Docklands

Click here for winter school holiday events in Melbourne – north, south, east, west

The post Free Winter School Holiday Events in Melbourne 2024 appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

From chilling out at ice rinks to enjoying festive markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Here are all the best school holiday events and activities happening throughout Melbourne’s suburbs. Find winter school holiday events in Melbourne CBD.

Note that this post is regularly updated so make sure to check back for new events.

Do Awesome Stuff at BOUNCE these school holidays!

Featured Event

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE’S NORTH / NORTH-EAST

Melbourne Museum Winter School Holiday Program (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Engage in exciting performances, workshops, crafts, and activities that blend play, nature, science, and imagination to ignite young minds and foster creativity.

Featured Event

• ANTARCTICA 3D (Fri 21 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – With never-before-seen footage, Antarctica 3D will take you to the farthest reaches of this wild and majestic continent.
• T-Rex 3D (Fri 21 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Dive into the breathtaking world of T-Rex 3D, exclusively presented in IMAX 4K Laser Digital!
• 21st Bonfire 2024 (Sat 22 Jun) – Trot down to Collingwood Children’s Farm to make this family-friendly fundraiser burn bright!
• Meet Victoria the T. rex (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 20 Oct) – Victoria the T. rex is a world-class, interactive exhibition starring the real fossil skeleton of a 66-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus named Victoria.
• BOUNCE Heidelberg Holiday Camp (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join BOUNCE Holiday Camps for a morning filled with 3-hours of indoor adrenaline fun throughout the holiday period!
• BOUNCE Essendon Fields Holiday Camp (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join BOUNCE Holiday Camps for a morning filled with 3-hours of indoor adrenaline fun throughout the holiday period!

• Victoria the T. rex Opening Weekend Dinosaur Party (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 30 Jun) – Celebrate the opening weekend of the Victoria the T. rex exhibition with mask making, scavenger hunts and dinosaur talks for kids – all free with your Melbourne Museum entry ticket.
• Tracey Lister: Kids’ Gnocchi Class (Mon 1 Jul) – A fun way for kids to learn some basic cooking skills in a safe and supervised environment.
• School Holiday Rolling Circus (Mon 1 Jul) – Step right up and prepare for the most dazzling pop-up roller rink of the winter school holidays!
• Farmer for a Day (Tue 2 Jul – Thu 4 Jul & Mon 9 Jul – Thu 11 Jul) – learn all about what it takes to keep a busy Community Farm humming and what Collingwood Children’s Farm does to take care of their animals as well as the land that we all rely on.
• Kindness Club (Wed 3 Jul – Sat 13 Jul) – A unique, hands-on and interactive experience for children aged 6-12 to engage with the animals and philosophy of farmed animal sanctuary, Edgar’s Mission.
• Flower Power Roller Disco (Sun 30 Jun) – Get ready to boogie on down at the most groovy event of the year – the Flower Power Roller Disco! Mark your calendars for 30th of June 2024 and roll on over to the vrdl Factory at 2 Stott Street, Preston.

• Naomi Gnomey: Kids’ Sushi-Making Class (Tue 2 Jul) – A fun way for kids to learn some basic cooking skills in a safe and supervised environment.
• Tracey Lister: Kids’ Dumpling Making Class (Wed 3 Jul) – A fun way for kids to learn some basic cooking skills in a safe and supervised environment.
• Winter Light Spectacular Diamond Valley Railway (Wed 3 Jul) – You’ll journey through the bushland of Eltham Lower Park, lit by the light shows, passing signals and locomotive headlights.
• Night of Crime (Wed 3 Jul) – Michael Brissenden and Jane Sullivan talk about their new page turners with Adrian Hyland
• Tracey Lister: Kids’ Ice Cream Making (Thu 4 Jul) – What better dish to learn and enjoy regardless of the season! In this 2-hour class your child will learn how to prepare chocolate parfait, summer fruit sorbet and granita in a fun and safe environment.
• Triceratops: Fate of the Dinosaurs (Daily) – An immersive voyage into a lost world, where visitors will explore the landscapes of the Cretaceous and get to know the creatures that thrived there.

• Kids: Jon & Jero: The Forgotten Tales (Thu 4 Jul – Sun 7 Jul) – Get ready for a truly wondrous exploration of imagination filled with big characters, music, clowning and physical comedy. The Forgotten Tales is perfect for kids 5 and up!
• Naomi Gnomey: Kids’ Sushi-Making Class (Tue 9 Jul) – This class allows your kids to roll up their sleeves and explore their culinary creativity through making their own sushi.
• Kids craft – Aboriginal Rock Painting (Tue 9 Jul) – Bring your kids to Eltham Mall on Tuesday, 9th July, at 11am for a captivating Kids Craft session featuring Aboriginal Rock Painting! 
• Tracey Lister: Kids’ Biscuit Class (Wed 10 Jul) – This class allows your kids to roll up their sleeves and explore their culinary creativity through making double chocolate Snickerdoodles, Melting Moments, Jammy Dodgers and Kingston Biscuits with Chocolate Ganache
• Snip, Snip, Hooray Collage Holiday Workshops (Mon 1 Jul, Wed 3 Jul, Thu 4 Jul, and Fri 5 Jul) – Ever heard of contemporary collage? Screen-free and PERFECT for friends, siblings, kids & parents, these mini family-friendly holiday collage art sessions will take place in Eltham Town Mall this July!

• Aboriginal Housing Victoria’s annual NAIDOC Family Day (Wed 10 Jul) -The theme of NAIDOC Week 2024, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,” celebrates the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture, with fire symbolizing connection to Country, community, and traditions
• Tracey Lister: Kids’ Ice Cream Making (Thu 11 Jul) – What better dish to learn and enjoy regardless of the season! In this 2-hour class your child will learn how to prepare chocolate parfait, summer fruit sorbet and granita in a fun and safe environment.
• Eltham Town Square (Thu 11 Jul) – Join us for an exciting Photography Workshop – Capturing Your Memories, hosted by Little Things Photography on Thursday, 11th July at 11.00am, specifically designed for teenagers!
• Dinos at the Zoo (Until 14 July 2024) – Have a ROAR-some time exploring the new trail of dinosaurs at Melbourne Zoo for a limited time only.
• Dinos After Dark (Fri 5, Sat 6, Fri 12, Sat 13 July 2024) – Melbourne Zoo is transforming into a world where prehistoric creatures come to life at night!

• Keeper Kids Melbourne Zoo (Ongoing) – Educator-led daily activities that promote learning through storytelling, craft, and play at Keeper Kids Melbourne Zoo.
• Dinosaur Walk (Daily) – Check out the real dinosaur bones at Melbourne Museum’s permanent exhibition featuring ten dinosaur skeletons, three pterosaurs, and other select megafauna artefacts such as huge teeth!
• Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery (Daily) – Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery – A world-class immersive learning and play experience – and a wonderland for little learners! The exhibition combines hands-on exploration and discovery, open-ended play-based learning, extraordinary immersive environments and unique museum collection objects.
• The District Makers Market (Last Sunday of every month) – enjoy entertainment and shop fine arts, crafts, jewellery, and artisan goods.
• Diamond Railway Twilight Run (Sundays) – Journey through the bushland of Eltham Lower Park as it is lit by the light shows, passing signals and locomotive headlights.
• VU Play Coburg pop-up playspaces (Tuesdays – Saturdays) – Victoria University Early Childhood pre-service teachers create pop-up play spaces for children to play.
• The Rose Street Artists’ Market (Saturdays and Sundays) – Shop directly from Melbourne’s best artists, designers, crafters and makers at Fitzroy’s iconic Rose Street Market.
• Junior Ranger (Ongoing) – Participate in activities that encourage kids to explore Victoria’s amazing parks

• The Fitzroy Market (Saturdays) – a one-stop hub for everything produce, food, artisan, handcrafted, vintage, second hand and local.
• Diamond Valley Railway (Sundays) – miniature railway with a playground next door. Read the Diamond Valley Railway Review
• Mini Mega Model Museum (ongoing) – an exhibition featuring small and big things at Melbourne Museum. Read the Mini Mega Model Museum review. 
• YMCA School Holiday Programs (ongoing) – Explore YMCA’s school holiday programs for kids. Find a location near you. Fun-filled activities for children.
• Mini Twitchers Heide (Ongoing) – Be a twitcher for a day and spot some beautiful birds in the Heide Sculpture park! Use a map to locate each area where the twelve painted birds are hidden in trees in the sculpture park.
• Heide Gallery Kids (ongoing) – Join Art Therapist Tanis Douglas, who supports pre-school children and their carers to gain confidence observing artworks in a small group.

• Sensory Tray Sessions (ongoing) – Sensory Tray Session (Various dates) – Pour, scoop, splash and more at our sensory tray sessions!
• Heide Gallery Kids (ongoing) – Join Art Therapist Tanis Douglas, who supports pre-school children and their carers to gain confidence observing artworks in a small group.
• Inspiring Minds (Various days, Term 2 2024) – Workshops with hands-on activities to strengthen fine motor skills, explore STEM concepts, develop resilience and foster a love of learning. Held at both Essendon and Preston venues.
• Under 5s Art Classes (ongoing) – Sessions will explore the elements of art such as colour, shape, texture and pattern through material exploration and experimentation.

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE’S SOUTH / SOUTH-EAST / BAYSIDE

Roola Boola Children’s Arts Festival (Tue 2 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – An interactive and dynamic program featuring performance and workshops in magic, puppetry, circus, dance, music, theatre and craft. Featured Event

Family Fiesta Monash Performing Arts Centre (Wed 3 Jul – Sat 6 Jul) – launch into space these school holidays at MPAC! Stellar live and participatory art and performance for 0-12 year-olds and their families. Featured Event

• Creative Indoor School Holiday Fun at the Robert Gordon Outlet (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – The Robert Gordon Outlet is perfect for getting creative. Enjoy a Paint Your Own Pottery session, lunch at Nancy Café and shop the outlet.
• Springvale Snow Fest (Fri 28 Jun) – Join in on the seasonal festivities as Springvale transforms into a magical winter wonderland on Sunday 28 July 12pm-7pm.
• Glad Movement Open Day (Sat 29 Jun) – Starting every 30 minutes from 11:00 AM, our expert guides will ensure you have the knowledge and confidence to explore our ninja gym facility.
• JUSTICE LEAGUE HERO ACADEMY (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Unleash your inner JUSTICE LEAGUE Super Hero and visit Chadstone – The Fashion Capital these school holidays.
• Multi Sport School Holidays Program (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Discover school holiday activities at Springvale Indoor Sports. Exciting programs for kids. Fun, active, and inclusive.
• NAIDOC Week 2024 Dandenong Market (Sun 7 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Recognising the history and achievement of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander peoples, this event contributes to the movement for our elders and original owners of the land both past and present.

• Super Stars Camp 7-10 year old program (Mon 1 Ju – Mon 8 Jul) – Experience a day filled with excitement as you participate in fully supervised cricket-based activities and games designed to enhance your skills and make you shine like a star!
• Escalate (Tue 2 Jul) – Experience the pinnacle of juggling at Bunjil Place with Throw Catch Collective—award-nominated artists transforming rhythm into a thrilling, high-energy performance for all. Ages 8+.
• Winter Family Films: Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy (Wed 3 Jul) – Snuggle up in the Bunjil Place Studio to enjoy this family film, presented as part of the HYBYCOZO Deep Thought program.
• Children’s International Film Festival (CHIFF) (Sat 8 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – a festival of the best new kids’ films from across the world.
• Gumbuya-dreaming (Sat 8 Jun – Sun 21 Jul) – ‍Prepare to be transported to a realm of wonder and awe as Gumbuya World Theme Park proudly presents ‘Gumbuya Dreaming’, a mesmerising digital light experience created by acclaimed Indigenous artist Wayne Quilliam.
• Lightscape (Fri 14 Jun – Sun 4 Aug) – An immersive, after-dark experience comes to Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne this winter. Iconic tree canopies will be drenched in colour, vibrant bursts of light will tumble from the undergrowth and run up trees like fizzing fireworks.

• STEMBuddy Coding and Robotics for kids (Mon 1 Jul – Thu 8 Jul) – STEM Buddy’s school holiday program is a thrilling experience where kids engage in coding, robotics, and fun games.
• Winter Family Films: Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Wed 3 Jul) – Over the Winter School Holidays, as part of the HYBYCOZO Deep Thought program, we present the film Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.
• Hybycozo – Deep Thought Installation (Fri 28 Jun) – Experience Hybycozo’s Deep Thought—a fusion of geometry and art, transforming Bunjil Place into a winter wonderland of peace with five world-class sculptures in our Plaza.
• BOUNCE Keysborough Holiday Camp (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join BOUNCE Holiday Camps for a morning filled with 3-hours of indoor adrenaline fun throughout the holiday period!
• BOUNCE Glen Iris Holiday Camp (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join BOUNCE Holiday Camps for a morning filled with 3-hours of indoor adrenaline fun throughout the holiday period!
• Frosted – A Winter Spectacular Tickets (Fri 21 Jun – Sun 21 Jul) – Embark on a journey into an enchanted frost-laden realm at Frosted – A Winter Spectacular. Celebrating Christmas in July

• The Southeast Area Throwdown (Sat 29 Jun) – Back for another year The Southeast Sessions are bringing an afternoon of vibrant and dynamic street dance culture for all ages
• Prehistoric Bayside Exhibition (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 25 Aug) – Prehistoric Bayside is an immersive family-friendly exhibition showcasing the tumultuous lives of bizarre beasts dating back roughly 5-6 million years.
• Kids Breakin Workshop (Sat 29 Jun) – Join Demi Sorono for a deep dive into Breakin’ for kids. Learn basic popping, locking and fun dance steps accessible to all age groups and dance abilities
• National Steam Centre (Sun 29 Jun) – The museum engines are fired up and can be seen running on the last Sunday of each month.
• Toon Creations Kids Cartooning Caufield (Wed 3 Jul – Fri 5 Jul) – Kids will have a blast learning to draw all their favourite cartoon characters. They incorporate fun games and activities and kids will take home lots of new tips and techniques to improve their drawing skills
• Max and The Wild Things (Mon 8 Jul) – Max and The Wild Things – an Interactive Theatre Show based on Maurice Sendak’s beloved book, that invites children to Max’s wild world where big emotions rule!
• Bunnings D.I.Y Kids Workshop (Mon 8 Jul – Tue 9 Jul) – Get your kids to build their own crate for free in stores where they’ll be rewarded with a ‘License To D.I.Y’ certificate once their masterpiece is complete!

• FREE School Holiday Fun! (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Enjoy Free School Holiday Fun, where kids can participate in an interactive ‘Kids in the Kitchen’ workshop during week 1, followed by a week of engaging mindful activities such as kids yoga, coloring, and bead craft in week 2.
• GRUG (Tue 9 Jul – Wed 10 Jul) – Grug is a Windmill Theatre Company production. Originally produced in association with Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s Out of the Box Festival.
• School Holiday Drop-in session – Flesh and Bones Drawing Activity (Wed 10 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Children will be provided clues to reconstruct some of the most famous animals that have ever lived in Bayside. Suitable for ages 5+
• DAVID WALLIAMS’ Ratburger (Thu 11 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – The team behind The 13-, 26-, 52-, 78- and 91-Storey Treehouses, Mr Stink and The Midnight Gang bring David Walliams’ screamingly funny Number One bestselling book to life on stage for children 6+ and their families.
• Linden New Art’s NAIDOC Week Community Day (Sun 14 Jul) – Linden New Art’s NAIDOC Week Community Day promises an engaging blend of cultural immersion and community building.
• School Holiday Drop-Off Programs at Activate by Hard Rock (Until Fri 7 Jul) – Explore an array of thrilling and convenient school holiday drop-off programs, including the exhilarating climbing program and more.
• The South East Area Throwdown (Sat 29 Jun) – The Southeast Sessions are bringing an afternoon of vibrant and dynamic street dance culture to Bunjil Place for all ages.

• Seek and Find Nature Cards (Until Sun 31 Dec) Set your young ones on an adventure exploring nature with our Seek and Find Nature Cards to be used at Melbourne Gardens or download the cards and go exploring in your own neighbourhood.
• Aboriginal Heritage Walk (Until Tue 31 Dec) – Journey into Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, a significant cultural site for the local Kulin Nation, with a First Peoples guide.
• Young At Art (Tuesdays) – With the guidance of an experienced early childhood educator, participants work on a different hands-on creative activity every week, using materials from the take-home art materials box supplied each session.
• The Fitzroy Market (Saturdays) – a one-stop hub for everything produce, food, artisan, handcrafted, vintage, second hand and local.
• Gembrook Market (4th Sunday of Each Month) – a country market with a sustainable living focus located only 20 minutes from the south eastern suburbs.

• Bentleigh Sunday Market (Sundays) – plants, clothing, cosmetics, jewellery, books, videos, tools, antiques, crafts, pre-loved goods and more! Every Sunday. 
• Mornington Railway (Sundays) – Climb aboard the Mornington Railway steam train for a fun-filled outing.
• Gasworks Farmers’ Market (Third Saturday of every month until Fri 15 Dec) – On Saturdays soak up the vibrant atmosphere and sample the very best of local Victorian produce, directly from Victorian farmers and specialty makers.
• Baby Pop-Up Playgroup (Fridays until 28 Jun 2024) – Come along and enjoy a range of activities for babies aged 0 to 12 months. With singing, playing and sharing activities that you and your baby could do at home whilst connecting with other families. 
• Afternoons of Awesome at LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre (Until Fri 6 Dec) – Young builders can blast out of the classroom into a world of creativity, hop on electrifying rides, and set off on epic afternoon LEGO adventure!
• Gasworks Kids Holiday Program (TBA) – Gasworks’ kids holiday programs offer creative and entertaining experiences for children aged 4 to 14 during the school holidays. Bringing together a range of energetic artists and performers who specialise in working with kids.
• Prahran Market Kids’ Activities (ongoing) – every market day Prahran Market offers face painting, an animal farm, kids dance classes and music – most activities are free and no bookings necessary.
• WIIILD Wednesdays, Gumbuya World (Ongoing) – Dive into Wildlife Wanderers, the trail of free-roaming wildlife, savor two interactive shows, and hop on junior rides! Get up close with exotic animals, connect with nature, and enjoy exciting entertainment every week!

• WIIILD Fun Nights (Ongoing) – Experience the WIIILD Fun Nights this King’s Birthday weekend at Gumbuya World! Enjoy thrilling illuminated roller coasters, up-close encounters with Australian wildlife, and captivating shows.
• LEGO Friends (Ongoing) – Visit LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne to meet your new Friends, receive fun show bags, join in a scavenger hunt activity and more!
• Little Lunies at Luna Park (Ongoing) – Discover a fantastic world of rides, attractions, and games to suit Little and Big Lunies! There’s something for everyone from old favorites like The Great Scenic Railway, Ghost Train, & Carousel to the big thrill rides like the Power Surge, Sky Rider, Twin Dragon, and more!
• Nature Play (Ongoing) – Come along to Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve for Nature Play, an outdoor, child-led playgroup session facilitated by a qualified ranger.
• Stories and Songs in the Square (Ongoing) – Stories and Songs in the Square (Mondays & Wednesdays) – Nurture your child’s early literacy skills by joining in to read aloud stories and sing action songs and rhymes.
• YMCA School Holiday Programs (ongoing) – Explore YMCA’s school holiday programs for kids. Find a location near you. Fun-filled activities for children.
• Kids Dancehall Workshops (Sat 29 Jun) – Join Jungle City for a fun exploration of Jamaican Dancehall and Afro Fusion, taking you on a dancing journey from the likkle island of Jamaica all the way to the continent of Africa and the African Diaspora

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE’S EAST

• School Holiday Program Kew Junction (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – It’s time again for our fabulous and famous school holiday program! Leave your kids with us while you enjoy a relaxing coffee, shop or beauty treatment in Kew Junction.
• Eastland school holiday activation (Mon 1 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Unleash your inner athlete at Eastland’s fun, interactive Champions Arena and meet former basketball star Andrew Gaze and swimmer Mack Horton when they drop in.
• School Holiday Fun at The Pines (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 5 Jul) – Looking for exciting ways to entertain the kids during the school holidays? This program is packed with fun activities to engage young minds and create unforgettable memories.
• Champions Arena (Mon 1 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Face off against the goalie in the penalty shoot-out to claim the top spot on the leaderboard, challenge your reflexes on the beach volleyball reaction wall or showcase your basketball skills as you compete against friends (and the clock!) in the arcade-style game you know and love.

• Toon Creations Kids Cartooning Malvern (Wed 3 Jul – Thu 4 Jul) – Kids will have a blast learning to draw all their favourite cartoon characters. They incorporate fun games and activities and kids will take home lots of new tips and techniques to improve their drawing skills
• Circus Royale Wantirna South (Fri 14 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Melbourne’s Favourite Circus Spectacular is coming to the State Basketball Centre in Wantirna South with Australia’s #1 action-packed circus event and animatronic zoo.
• Ladder Art Space School Holiday Family Sessions (Sat 22 Jun – Fri 6 Sep) – Invite your buddies and family members for a paint party at Ladder Art Space. This class is designed for all levels of painters, including beginners.
• The Children’s International Film Festival | Lido and Cameo Cinemas (Fri 8 Jun – Sun 7 Jul) – A festival of the best new kids’ films from across the world. See the Moomins, a four-legged adventurer Titina, and more!

• KNOX events, activities and festivals for everyone (Mon 26 Jun – Tue 26 Sep) – Explore a wide range of activities, festivals, and events happening near you. Join in the fun and embrace the vibrant community spirit.
• School Holiday Programs Maroondah Leisure (Mon 26 Jun – Fri 30 Jun) – Experience a wide variety of holiday programs at The Rings and Maroondah Nets, catering to children aged 5 to 14. Keep your child active, entertained, and engaged during school holidays, regardless of the weather.
• Silvers Circus Spectacular (Fri 28 Jun) – Silvers Circus has returned with a 90-minute spectacular by elite artists from around the globe, including the Walison Muh as seen on Australia’s Got Talent.
• BOUNCE Blackburn Holiday Camp (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join BOUNCE Holiday Camps for a morning filled with 3-hours of indoor adrenaline fun throughout the holiday period!
• Winter Wonderland (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 5 Jul) – Join the fun at our free winter themed school holidays! Sensory craft, an igloo photobooth and even a scavenger hunt.

• Ladder Art Space School Holiday (Sat 29 Jun – Sat 13 Jul) – At Ladder Art Space, they offer an exciting and enriching school holiday experience for children aged 5 to 12 years old. Their holiday program is designed to inspire creativity, foster imagination, and provide a fun-filled learning environment for young artists.
• JOIN AUSTRALIA’S MOST EXCITING HOLIDAY CAMP! (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Book your BOUNCE Holiday Camp for a 3-hour session filled with indoor adrenaline fun throughout the holiday period!
• The Mini Mart (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 2 Jul) – Discover a school holiday adventure at the Mini Mart, featuring bowling, mini golf, prizes, and more! Don’t miss out!
• Play Unstoppable (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 21 Jul) – Dive into a bricktastic adventure of unstoppable play and creativity! Build LEGO® flowers at the Flower Cart and watch NEW 4D LEGO Friends movie!
• Lake Mountain (June – September but dates will vary depending on snow season) – toboggan, cross country skiing and snow play 2 hours from Melbourne. Read my tips on visiting Lake Mountain with kids

• Ruccis Circus School Holiday Program (Sat 29 Jun – Thu 9 Jul) – Discover new skills, be mesmerized by show-stopping performances, and engage in interactive circus experiences.
• A Little Bit of Blue (Thu 11 Jul) – A Little Bit of Blue is an interactive detective show for families, told with puppetry.
• Heide Art Babies (Tuesdays) – 30 minutes of sensory play in the gallery, looking, thinking and talking about art. Read the Heide Art Babies review.
• Ninja Parc School Holiday Program (Weekdays) – plenty of running, climbing and balancing activities to keep your kids moving and having fun during the holidays
• Mt Baw Baw (June – September but dates will vary depending on snow season) – Melbourne’s closest downhill ski resort open for winter season. Read my tips on visiting Mt Baw Baw with kids

• Auburn Kids Sunday Funday (Sundays) – Petting zoo, fairies, mermaids, superheroes, face painting and balloon animals galore!
• ECOSS Valley Market (Fridays) – Experience the vibrant Valley Markets, connecting local growers, artisans, and musicians in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
• Yarra Valley Railway (Sundays) – take a trip on the historic Walker RM22 Railmotor from Healesville to Tunnel Hill. Read the Yarra Valley Railway review
• Camberwell Sunday Market (Sundays) – second-hand retro, vintage, antique, fashion and collectible goods you just can’t find anywhere else
• Belgrave Big Dreams Market (2nd Sunday of the Month) – discover original and bespoke design pieces, some of the yummiest and freshest produce the area has to offer, live music, a bouncy castle and face painting for the kids.

• Box Hill Miniature Railway (3rd Sunday of the Month) – Ride this wonderful Miniature Railway, the track winds through the picturesque surrounds of Elgar Park. Read the Box Hill Miniature Railway Review
• Mooroolbark Miniature Railway (Runs 4th Sunday each month) – miniature rail running every 4th Sunday.
• Bounce Playdates (Weekdays During Term Time) – Extended toddler sessions offer little adrenaline hunters time to explore and play, while parents can choose to join in, or watch on from nearby.
• Spirits of the Sky (Daily) – See the natural behaviours of a variety of native birds which may include the Wedge-tailed Eagle, Black-breasted Buzzard, Barking Owl, magnificent parrots and more.
• Wurundjeri Storytime (Fridays) – Join Rebecca from Wurundjeri Council in an interactive online storytelling session for kinders, early years groups and families aged 0 to 5 years. Children will learn about Wurundjeri culture, Woi-wurrung language and Dreaming stories through storytelling, rhyme and song. Please register each class group attending.
• Dinos at Healesville Sanctuary (Until 14 July 2024) – Let your imagination run wild as you explore a new trail of animatronic dinosaurs coming to life before your eyes for a limited time only.

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE’S WEST

Scienceworks Winter School Holiday Program (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Experience a blend of education and entertainment at Scienceworks these winter school holidays. Engage in hands-on activities at Air Playground, witness the power of air in the Air-Palooza show, embark on guided tours of museum treasures, and more.

Featured Event. 

• Winter Art Fun at Little Big Art (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Keep your child entertained during the winter break with fun, colourful and creative art classes, parties, events and much more for little to big artists.
• It’s Not Rocket Science (Thu 20 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join The Expedition! All ages can be space-age explorers at It’s Not Rocket Science by ENESS because you’re never too young or old to be beguiled by the universe.
• Adventure Park – Winter Glow (Fri 22 Jun – Sun 21 July) – Discover a glowing winter wonderland of snow, lights, fire and ice.
• Eynesbury Winter Festival (Thur 27 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – The perfect winter outing for the entire family! Hit the ice rink, enjoy some tasty winter food & drinks and more
• Newport Folk Festival (Fri 28 Jun – Sat 29 Jun) – Discover the vibrant Newport Folk Festival, a celebration of music, community, and artistic performances in Newport.
• Grazeland (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 30 Jul)- Melburnians are invited to rug up and head to Grazeland as the food precinct transforms into a winter wonderland each weekend. Read the Grazeland Review
• THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride – Queenscliff (Sat 29 Jun) – Get ready to take a magical journey as THE POLAR EXPRESS stops at Queenscliff this winter in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the film.

• Winter Wonderland at Grazeland (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 28 Jul) – Farewell the winter blues at Grazeland’s annual Winter Wonderland! Melbourne’s foodie playground is heating up with an array of food, drink and entertainment.
• The 13-Storey Treehouse (Sat 29 Jun, Sun 30 Jun, and Mon 1 Jul) – A play by Richard Tulloch. Adapted from the multi-award winning book by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton.
• EID @ FOOTSCRAY (Sat 29 Jun) – Immerse yourself in the vibrant Eid festivities of the many Muslim cultures that enrich multicultural Maribyrnong. Experience: food samplings, Ethiopian coffee, Henna, interactive arts, communal prayers and Qawwali.
• Winter School holiday fun in Moonee Valley (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Discover a whole range of hands-on activities for kids of all ages.

• Aa is for Art Holiday Programs (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Discover the exciting holiday programs at AA is for Art. Engage in art activities, unleash your creativity, and have fun in a vibrant and inspiring environment.
• Victoria Hotel Yarraville (Tue 2 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – Free School Holiday Activities – These Holidays Victoria Hotel we will be holding free activities for the kids on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 11:30am! Visit our website!
• Unleash your inner Superstar (Tue 2 Jul – Fri 5 Jul) – Spark your child’s creativity this winter at Footscray Community Arts! Join professional musicians Isobel, Bianca, and Max for a music-filled adventure. Unleash their talent through singing, band formation, and creative exploration.
• Kids: Jon & Jero: The Forgotten Tales (Thu 4 Jul – Sun 7 Jul) – Get ready for a truly wondrous exploration of imagination filled with big characters, music, clowning and physical comedy. The Forgotten Tales is perfect for kids 5 and up!
• Firefly Night Market (Sat 6 Jul) – fun for the whole family with roving performers, interactive art, street food, artisan stalls, cultural activities and live performances
• Super-Hero High Tea (Thu 4 Jul) – The perfect family day out; delicious food, an assortment of games and activities suited to all ages, a photobooth, Witchmount sweet cart!

• Get adventurous with Extreme Arts (Tue 9 Jul – Thur 11 Jul) – Get ready for an unforgettable school holiday experience filled with hat-making, experimental music, and circus fun using recycled materials.
• Metro Comic Con (Sat 13 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Step into a world of excitement and fun at Metro Comic Con, the ultimate destination for fans of film, TV, animation, gaming, cosplay, collectibles, publishing, and comics.
• 100 Story Building (Dates TBC) – Let your imagination run wild with holiday fun with 100 Story Building. Explore different story making activities, from game design, character creation and world building.
• SciencePlay Kids Holiday classes 4-12yo (Dates TBA) – SciencePlay offers engaging kids classes for 4-12-year-olds. Explore science through hands-on experiments, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and STEM skills in a fun and messy way.
• Art in the garden (Last Friday of the month) – It’s a combination of nature play, sensory play, process art, and playgroup. Run by ‘The Fun In Art’.
• Bulla Railway (3rd Sunday of each month) – Ride the dinosaur trail on the miniature railway. Read the Bulla Railway review.

• Tarneit Makers and Growers Market (3rd Friday of each month) – a free market experience featuring high quality hand-made or designed textiles, stationery, ceramics, homewares & jewellery, locally grown produce & authentic culinary experiences.
• Enterprize Sail Williamstown (usually sails the third Sunday of every month) – go for a one hour sail on tall ship Enterprize in Williamstown
• Sunday Funday Station Hotel (Sundays) – Every Sunday The Station Hotel prepares an animal farm and other entertaining activities to keep the little ones busy, while you sit back and relax, Read the Station Hotel review
• Altona Homestead (recurring 1st Sunday of the month) – Experience the renowned Devonshire Tea at Altona Homestead on the first Sunday of every month. Reserve your spot in advance for a delightful time.
• Altona Beach Market (recurring weekly every Tuesdays) – Experience Melbourne’s popular Altona Beach market, a weekly street market held on Pier Street, featuring fresh food stalls, unique crafts, and a scenic seaside backdrop, attracting both local residents and visitors from all over the city
• 100 Story Building Winter Holiday Program (Tue 9 Jul – Wed 10 Jul100 Story Building is offering two immersive all-day workshops for kids aged 8-12. Dive into the world filled with creativity, imagination and hands-on activities!

• Altona Miniature Railway (3rd Sunday of the month) – between 10 am and 3 pm, ride this wonderful Miniature Railway. Read the Altona Miniature Railway review.
• Werribee Open Range Zoo (Daily) – Stroll through the Zoo spotting lions, hippos, cheetahs, monkeys, gorillas and more, catch the safari bus tour or explore the Ranger Kids indoor play space and Village Kids outdoor playground.
• Air Playground (Daily) – Air Playground has launched at Scienceworks. Levitate objects, engineer paper planes, & learn the physics of airflow.
• Melbourne Planetarium (Daily) – Sit back and enjoy the wonder of the stars regardless of the time of day – or the weather!

• Ground Up: Building Big Ideas, Together (Daily) – An exhibition for babies to five-year-olds where curiosity is rewarded around each bend with surprising and intriguing sights, sounds and touch sensations.
• Playnastics (Wednesdays + Thursdays) – Casual open play sessions using a selection of Preschool Gymnastics equipment and resources, as well as puzzles, blocks and more. ​Read our review here.
• Toddler and Kids Art Classes (Thurs + Fridays) – The Fun In Art’ provides art classes for toddlers and kids where they’re more about the fun of creation and less about the outcome of the artwork.
• Clocktower Centre Children’s Space (Daily) – Parents and carers can sit back and relax with a coffee and a snack from the Clocktower Café while the kids explore the space, watch the trams go by or listen to their favourite book with the interactive Storytime Pod.
• A Little Bit of Blue puppetry performance and workshop (Tue 2 Jul) – An interactive puppetry show inviting children and families to become detectives for a day. Then test out your creative ideas in a Paper Puppetry workshop.

Click here for the best indoor play centres in Melbourne

Click here for indoor rock climbing centres in Melbourne for kids

Top places to go Ice Skating in Melbourne with Family and Friends

The post Melbourne School Holidays Winter – Friday 28 June to Sunday 14 July 2024 appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

To make sure you don’t miss out on the fun, we’ve created this mega list of school holiday events and activities in Melbourne CBD for the winter school holidays, including free, affordable low-cost events and family attractions.

If you’re looking for events and activities happening in Melbourne’s suburbs, go to Melbourne Winter School Holidays – Suburbs.

Note that this post is regularly updated so make sure to check back for new events.

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE CBD/DOCKLANDS

Featured Event

Taylor Swift Singalong Port Phillip Ferries ​(Tue 2 Jul + Tue 9 Jul) – Get ready to shake it off with an unforgettable afternoon on the water dedicated to the music of Taylor Swift!

Featured Event

Immigration Museum Winter School Holidays (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Join a guided tour of the Joy exhibition and explore the power of joy, connection, and celebration in this unique and enchanting family-friendly tour.

WHAT’S ON – MELBOURNE CBD/DOCKLANDS

• Leonardo Da Vinci (Sat 16 Mar – Sun 16 Sept) – Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius promises to be THE LUME Melbourne’s most ambitious, immersive and breathtaking experience yet.
• History of the Library Tour (Wed 1 May – Sat 31 Aug) – Discover the fascinating history of State Library Victoria and explore some of the many iconic spaces with a one-hour tour hosted by our friendly and passionate volunteers.
• BEINGS By Universal Everything​ (Wed 22 May – Sun 29 Sep 2024) – A playful family adventure at ACMI filled with vibrant and playful digital art.
• Winter Night Market (Wed 5 Jun – Wed 28 Aug) – Rug up in your winter woollies and head to the Market for Melbourne’s best street food trucks and stalls, local brewers and distillers, shopping and lively entertainment.
• Hop into the boots of SEA LIFE Melbourne’s penguin keepers this winter (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 21 Jul) – Enjoy keeper talks and an interactive trail where guests will dive into the world of penguins, gaining knowledge about feeding, habitat, enrichment and conservation.

• Children’s International Film Festival (CHIFF) (Sat 8 Jun – Wed 7 Jul) – The Children’s International Film Festival is back with a month-long celebration of cinema throughout winter school holidays at Classic Cinemas, Lido Cinemas and Cameo Cinemas.
• The Art of Banksy – Australia: “Without Limits” Exhibition” (Wed 12 Jun – Sat 3 Aug) – The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” is a stunning street art exhibition of museum quality featuring over 150 artworks, such as certified art, prints on different kinds of materials, photos, sculptures, installations, digital installations, murals, mapping shows, and more.
• T.REX 3D (Fri 21 Jun – Sat 21 Dec) – Narrated by Sam Neill, experience the iconic T. rex come to life on the world’s biggest, best screen in this thrilling IMAX 3D documentary!
• Millie Mak Craft: Paper Dolls (Sat 29 Jun – Tue 2 Jul) – Create your own paper doll in this drop-in craft activity, inspired by Alice Pung and Sher Rill Ng’s book, Millie Mak the Maker.
• TEDDY BEAR PICNIC TEA PARTY (Mon 1 Jul – Fri 12 Jul) – “Bring your favourite Teddy Bear for a delightful and charming tea party. Set in a cozy room with miniature kids tea party treats and sweets!”
• Care Bears Afternoon Tea, The Langham (Mon 8 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – A joy-filled experience for families, during the July school holidays, this heartwarming event will bring the beloved Care Bears to life in a magical setting.

• Firelight Festival (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 30 Jun) – Over three fiery nights, Melbourne’s epic winter festival, Firelight, takes over Docklands with fire pits, mesmerising light shows, live music, pop-up foodie feasts and more.
• School Holidays at MONOPOLY DREAMS Melbourne (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Upon entry, each child will receive a new activity pack, with fun tasks to complete during their visit and to continue the fun at home.
• Fitzroy Gardens Winter Wander: Cottage Detective Quest (Sat 29 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – Starting off at Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre, kids can collect their activity booklet and head to Cooks’ Cottage. Once there, they’ll meet eight of Kylie’s animal friends on their search for the missing hat. After answering all the questions, they can head back to the visitor centre to collect a prize.
• Firelight Labyrinth (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 14 Jul) – This winter, a subterranean space underneath Melbourne’s iconic Marvel Stadium will be transformed into a mythical labyrinth of light and sound. Interact with state-of-the-art technology, offering an unprecedented experience unlike anything witnessed in Australia before.

• Academy at Arts Centre Melbourne (Mon 1 Jul – Sat 13 Jul) – Unleash your potential at Arts Centre Melbourne’s The Channel, discovering the strengths within you through the captivating stories of successful artists.
• Melbourne Magic Festival (Mon 1 Jul – Sat 13 Jul) – See over 130 performances of 30 different shows including top international guest magicians from all over Australia.
• Millie Mak Workshop: Scrunchies and Bags (Mon 1 Jul – Sat 7 Sep) – Turn old clothes into something new in our DIY workshops with Alice Pung and Sher Rill Ng.
• Winter School Holidays at Queen Victoria Market (Tue 2 Jul, Thu 4 Jul, Tue 9 Jul, and Thu 11 Jul) – Get ready for a giant tumble of geometric planks, where little ones can explore their creativity and collaboration as they create giant shapes to craft larger-than-life snowflakes.
• Paper Planet workshops (Thu 4 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Join a unique school holiday activity of paper play and making.
• VCES School Holiday Workshop: LEGO® Robotics – Build Me a Story (Thu 4 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Armed with a passion for LEGO® brick building, your primary schooler (5–8-year-olds) and family members will work together to create and code a LEGO® brick robot while learning about the Library’s collection items.
• Winter Kids Takeover (Wed 3 Jul) – Let your kids take charge at this one-day winter extravaganza, where they get to run the show at the Library. From arts and crafts workshops to hip-hop classes and magical performances, there’s something for every child.

• The World Is Lava, Please Calm Down (Thu 4 Jul – Sun 7 Jul) – Jump into a physical challenge obstacle course experience followed by a playful investigation of calming techniques
• NAIDOC Week Oration by Uncle Charles Pakana (Mon 8 Jul) – This year Moonee Valley’s NAIDOC Week events will commence with a NAIDOC-themed oration delivered by Uncle Charles Pakana at the Incinerator Gallery.
• NAIDOC Week Children’s Craft Workshops (Tue 9 Jul) – Join for FREE NAIDOC Week children’s craft workshops. Let the kids enjoy painting and colouring during these school holidays.
• NAIDOC Week: Indigenous Cultural Presentation on Fire (Tue 9 Jul) – Discover the importance of fire and smoke in this educational Indigenous presentation.
• Josh Deane: Crackle of the Cockatoos (Wed 10 Jul – Tue 16 Jul) – This intriguing installation by Palawa contemporary artist Josh Deane features a group of paper mache cockatoos, with each sculpture incorporating paper as a tribute to the library environment.
• Inside Out – Dinosaur Dreams (Thu 11 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Explore a different idea and activity each time you visit; make a dinosaur sculpture out of cushions or felt; then turn it into a fabulous home for your fossils. Draw your favourite dinosaur’s food or wrap and weave a nest for them using ribbon and rope. 
• NAIDOC Week: The Little Long Walk at EF (Thu 11 Jul) – For the third year, join us this NAIDOC Week for the Little Long Walk at Essendon Fields.
• NAIDOC Exhibition Opening: Keep The Fire Burning (Thu 11 Jul) – Bluethumb is pleased to announce its annual NAIDOC week exhibition, ‘Keep The Fire Burning,’ which is dedicated to supporting the creative endeavours of Indigenous artists.
• BLAKtivism. Build Blak Power. Fight for Change​ (Thu 11 Jul) – At this reflective and provocative panel event, Bebe Oliver discusses the currency of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander activism, guided by Laniyuk, Apryl Day and Iluka Sax-Williams.
• Haus of Dizzy Charm Bracelet Workshop​ (Thu 11 Jul) – Welcome to the ultimate bling-tastic workshop with self-confessed ‘Queen of Bling’, Wiradjuri designer Kristy Dickinson of Haus of Dizzy. Kristy’s jewellery celebrates and honours Aboriginal culture through bold and statement-making accessories.
• Junior Ranger Bush Food and Bizarre Bugs​​ (Sun 14 Jul) – Kids! Why are bugs important to the world? What is bush food? Discover the answer to these questions and more in these activities led by City of Melbourne Park Rangers and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

• NAIDOC in the City​​ (Fri 12 Jul) – Following the annual NAIDOC march, NAIDOC in the City is an exciting celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, achievements and talents.
• NAIDOC 2024 KHT NAIDOC Market (Fri 12 Jul – Sat 13 Jul) – The 2024 NAIDOC Week theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud, and Proud,” symbolizing the enduring strength, vitality, and traditions of First Peoples cultures.
• Bastille Day French Festival (Sat 13 Jul – Sun 14 Jul) – Shop from local French stallholders, indulge in mouth-watering delicacies, plus delight in traditional dance and musical performances from French jazz, Mauritian bands and mime artists!
• NAIDOC WEEK CELEBRATION 2024 (Sat 13 Jul) – Each year NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia to acknowledge the rich history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Melbourne Zoo Com​munity Day (Sun 14 Jul) – Join us to close out NAIDOC week with a range of First Nations led activities for children, young people and families. A collaboration by Aboriginal Melbourne and Melbourne Zoo.
• SEALIFE Melbourne Aquarium (Open daily) – See some of the world’s most incredible animals, including penguins, a 6-metre-long crocodile and thousands of tropical fish, plus the newly reopened oceanarium.

• Polly Woodside (First Sunday of the Month) – Come aboard for a tour of the ship and discover what life was like on a tall ship sailing the seven seas. Read the Polly Woodside review.
• Kids Passport Queen Victoria Market (Every market day) – Collect your passport, then journey around the Market collecting stamps from our friendly traders, before making your way to the Queen Victoria Market Visitor Hub to claim your prize.
• Christmas in July Winter Night Market (Every Wednesday) – The Winter Night Market returns to Queen Victoria Market! Indulge in incredible street food, spiced Milo, mulled wine, specialty shopping offering unique and one-of-a-kind treasures, crackling fires and live entertainment. 
• Aboriginal Heritage Walk (Until Tue 31 Dec) – Journey into Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, a significant cultural site for the local Kulin Nation, with a First Peoples guide.
• Silvers Circus Spectacular (Fri 28 Jun – Sun 21 Jul) – Silvers Circus has returned with a 90-minute spectacular by elite artists from around the globe, including the Walison Muh as seen on Australia’s Got Talent.

• Escape the Gaol (Ongoing) – At Old Melbourne Gaol, kids can become inmates on a mission to hatch the perfect escape plan. Read my Old Melbourne Gaol review.
• NGV TEENS: DROP BY AND MAKE A BUSH FLOWER WITH SOPHIE HONESS (Daily) – This school holidays, join artist Sophie Honess in a free workshop making a bush flower inspired pom-pom to decorate your school bag. Together with the NGV Teen Council, meet like-minded people and develop your skills at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Fed Square
• The Explorer – Melbourne Gardens (Until Tue 31 Dec) Discover the beauty of this inner-city oasis and enjoy live commentary in the comfort of an open-air minibus.
• Winter Igloo Garden Wharf Hotel (Daily until September 2024) – get back outside and cosy up beneath a sky of twinkling fairy lights on the banks of the Yarra. Feast on a grazing board in your own private winter wonderland. Read the Wharf Hotel igloos review.

• CRFT* WRK (Last Saturday of every month) – one of the best Melbourne June events if you love craft markets, Crft*Wrk celebrates contemporary locally-made crafts under the iconic open-air sheds at Queen Victoria Market.
• Melbourne Book Market (Saturdays & Sundays) – curated collection of more than 5,000 new and pre-loved titles selected and presented by 15 of Melbourne’s most experienced booksellers.
• Arts Centre Sunday Market (Sundays) – find unique, quirky and handmade items at the stalls. There are always some yummy treats too!
• The Story of the Moving Image (ongoing) – Journey through the past, present and future of the moving image through interactive experiences, digital innovation and captivating stories. ACMI review.
• Into the Music – Composition Workshop 2024 (ongoing) – Participants in Into the Music – Composition Workshop will explore technology and techniques used to create the music they hear every day.
• Melbourne Town Hall Tours (every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) – Take a free guided tour of Melbourne’s historic Melbourne Town Hall, one of the city’s most iconic buildings and the site of many of Melbourne’s proudest moments.
• Shrine Kids (Daily) – The Shrine of Remembrance is the National War Memorial of Victoria and it makes for an educational (and sobering) outing for families. 

What’s on in All Melbourne Suburbs for the Winter School Holidays

Click here for the best indoor play centres in Melbourne

Click here for indoor rock climbing centres in Melbourne for kids

Top 5 Places to go Ice Skating in Melbourne with Family and Friends

The post Winter School Holidays Melbourne CBD – Friday 28 June to Sunday 14 July 2024 appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

These dates are set for Australian public schools – Catholic, private and independent schools may have slightly different dates. 

VICTORIA School Holidays & Public Holidays 2024, 2025, 2026

VICTORIA School Term Dates 2024

VICTORIA School Term Dates 2025

VICTORIA School Term Dates 2026

VICTORIA School Holidays 2024, 2025, 2026

VICTORIA Public Holidays 2024

• Monday 11 March 2024: Labour Day
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday 10 June: King’s Birthday
• TBA: AFL Grand Final Friday
• Tuesday, 5 November: Melbourne Cup Day *
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

VICTORIA Public Holidays 2025

• Monday 10 March 2025: Labour Day
• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday 9 June 2025: King’s Birthday
• TBA: AFL Grand Final Friday
• Tuesday 4 November 2025: Melbourne Cup Day *
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

VICTORIA Public Holidays 2026

• Monday 9 March 2026: Labour Day
• Sunday 5 April 2026 Easter
• Monday 8 June 2026: King’s Birthday
• TBA: AFL Grand Final Friday
• Tuesday 3 November 2026: Melbourne Cup Day *
• Friday 25 December 2026 Christmas Day

*Melbourne metropolitan only – regional areas may differ

NEW SOUTH WALES School Holidays & Public Holidays 2024, 2025, 2026

NEW SOUTH WALES School Term Dates 2024

NEW SOUTH WALES School Term Dates 2025

NEW SOUTH WALES School Term Dates 2026

NEW SOUTH WALES School Holidays 2024 to 2026

NEW SOUTH WALES Public holidays 2024

• Monday 10 June: King’s Birthday
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday 7 October: Labour Day
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

NEW SOUTH WALES Public holidays 2025

• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday 9 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday 6 October: Labour Day
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

NEW SOUTH WALES Public holidays 2026

• Sunday 5 April Easter
• Monday 8 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday 5 October: Labour Day
• Friday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

QUEENSLAND School Holidays & Public Holidays 2024, 2025, 2026

QUEENSLAND School Term Dates 2024

QUEENSLAND School Term Dates 2025

QUEENSLAND School Term Dates 2026 (TBA)

QUEENSLAND School Holidays 2024 to 2026

QUEENSLAND Public holidays 2024

• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday 6 May: Labour Day
• Wednesday 14 August: Ekka Wednesday*
• Monday 7 October: King’s Birthday
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

QUEENSLAND Public holidays 2025

• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday 5 May: Labour Day
• Wednesday 13 August: Ekka Wednesday*
• Monday 6 October: King’s Birthday
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

QUEENSLAND Public holidays 2026

• Sunday 5 April 2026 Easter
• Monday 4 May: Labour Day
• Wednesday 12 August: Ekka Wednesday*
• Monday 5 October: King’s Birthday
• Friday 25 December 2026 Christmas Day

*Brisbane only

WESTERN AUSTRALIA SCHOOL HOLIDAYS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2024, 2025, 2026

WESTERN AUSTRALIA School Term Dates 2024

WESTERN AUSTRALIA School Term Dates 2025

WESTERN AUSTRALIA School Term Dates 2026

WESTERN AUSTRALIA School Holidays 2024 to 2026

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Public holidays 2024

• Monday 4 March: Labour Day
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday 3 June: Western Australia Day
• Monday 23 September: King’s Birthday*
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Public holidays 2025

• Monday 3 March: Labour Day
• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday 2 June: Western Australia Day
• Monday 29 September: King’s Birthday
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Public holidays 2026

• Monday 3 March: Labour Day
• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday 2 June: Western Australia Day
• Monday 29 September: King’s Birthday
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

*Regional areas in Western Australia may celebrate the King’s Birthday Public Holiday on an alternative date

SOUTH AUSTRALIA SCHOOL HOLIDAYS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2024, 2025, 2026

SOUTH AUSTRALIA School Term Dates 2024

SOUTH AUSTRALIA School Term Dates 2025

SOUTH AUSTRALIA School Term Dates 2026 (TBA)

SOUTH AUSTRALIA School Holidays 2024 to 2026

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Public holidays 2024

• Monday, 11 March: Adelaide Cup Day
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday, 10 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 7 October: Labour Day
• Thursday, 26 December: Proclamation Day
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Public holidays 2025

• Monday, 10 March: Adelaide Cup Day
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday, 10 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 7 October: Labour Day
• Thursday, 26 December: Proclamation Day
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Public holidays 2026

• Monday, 9 March: Adelaide Cup Day
• Monday 6 April 2025 Easter
• Monday, 8 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 5 October: Labour Day
• Saturday, 26 December: Proclamation Day
• Friday, 25 December 2026 Christmas Day

Australia Capital Territory School Holidays & Public Holidays 2024, 2025, 2026

Australia Capital Territory School Term Dates 2024

Australia Capital Territory School Term Dates 2025

Australia Capital Territory School Term Dates 2026 (TBA)

Australia Capital Territory School Holidays 2024 to 2026

Australia Capital Territory Public holidays 2024

• Monday, 11 March: Canberra Day
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday, 27 May: Reconciliation Day
• Monday, 10 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 7 October: Labour Day
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

Australia Capital Territory Public holidays 2025

• Monday, 10 March: Canberra Day
• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday, 2 June: Reconciliation Day
• Monday, 9 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 6 October: Labour Day
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

Australia Capital Territory Public holidays 2026

• Monday, 9 March: Canberra Day
• Sunday 5 April 2026 Easter
• Monday, 1 June: Reconciliation Day
• Monday, 8 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 5 October: Labour Day
• Friday, 25 December 2026 Christmas Day

TASMANIA School Holidays & Public Holidays 2024, 2025, 2026

TASMANIA School Term Dates 2024

TASMANIA School Term Dates 2025 (TBA)

TASMANIA School Term Dates 2026

TASMANIA School Holidays 2024 to 2025

TASMANIA Public holidays 2024

• Monday, 11 March: Eight Hours Day
• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Tuesday, 2 April: Easter Tuesday *
• Monday, 10 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 4 November: Recreation Day
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

TASMANIA Public holidays 2025

• Monday, 10 March: Eight Hours Day
• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Tuesday, 22 April: Easter Tuesday
• Monday, 9 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 3 November: Recreation Day
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

TASMANIA Public holidays 2026

• Monday, 9 March: Eight Hours Day
• Monday, 6 April 2026 Easter
• Tuesday, 7 April: Easter Tuesday
• Monday, 8 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 2 November: Recreation Day
• Friday, 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

NORTHERN TERRITORY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2024, 2025, 2026

NORTHERN TERRITORY School Term Dates 2024

NORTHERN TERRITORY School Term Dates 2025

NORTHERN TERRITORY School Term Dates 2026

NORTHERN TERRITORY School Holidays 2024 to 2026

NORTHERN TERRITORY Public holidays 2024

• Sunday 31 March 2024 Easter
• Monday, 6 May: May Day
• Monday, 10 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 5 August: Picnic Day
• Wednesday 25 December 2024 Christmas Day

NORTHERN TERRITORY Public holidays 2025

• Monday, 5 May: May Day
• Sunday 20 April 2025 Easter
• Monday, 9 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 4 August: Picnic Day
• Thursday 25 December 2025 Christmas Day

NORTHERN TERRITORY Public holidays 2026

• Monday, 4 May: May Day
• Monday, 6 April 2026 Easter
• Monday, 8 June: King’s Birthday
• Monday, 3 August: Picnic Day
• Friday 25 December 2026 Christmas Day

Australia National Public Holidays 2024 to 2026

Victorian Holiday Destinations

Here are my top local holiday ideas within Victoria, from Melbourne day trips to overnight stays. Some of these locations are bushfire affected communities, so that’s even more reason to take an emptysky and go on a road trip for good!

• Things to do in Geelong with kids
• Things to do in the Yarra Valley with kids
• Things to do in the Mornington Peninsula with kids
• Things to do in Ballarat with kids
• Things to do in Bendigo with kids
• Things to do in Macedon Ranges with kids 
• Things to do in Lorne with kids
• Things to do in Warrnambool with kids
• Things to do in East Gippsland with kids
• Things to do in Swan Hill with kids
• Things to do in Castlemaine and Maldon with kids
• Things to do in Beechworth with kids
• Things to do in Bright with kids

The post Australian School Holidays & Public Holidays 2024, 2025 & 2026 appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

Expect a magical day out in Sovereign Hill Winter Wonderlights, where you get to experience an olden-day Ballarat winter wonderland with snowfalls, Christmas decorations and stunning light projections!

It’s a super popular event so make sure you book your Sovereign Hill Entry Ticket ahead of time – there’s no extra charge for the Winter Wonderlights Sovereign Hill night show.

Over the winter school holidays, you can experience a Sovereign Hill Christmas in July, where Victorian buildings are lit up with festive yuletide animations, faux snowfalls happen throughout the day, and over 15km of fairy lights make sure the Sovereign Hill light show give the entire township a golden glow.

sovereign hill ballarat

Wondering what is Sovereign Hill? It’s one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations and a place to immerse yourself in the history of gold-rush era Ballarat of the 1850s.

There’s so much to do there that we’ve never been able to see it all in over 3 visits!

Must-dos include panning for gold, the underground mine tour (the 40 minute Secret Chamber tour is excellent) and of course the famous raspberry drops from the old-fashioned lolly shop.  (Full review).

winter wonderlights ballarat

During Winter Wonderlights Sovereign Hill the whole outdoor museum is festooned with Christmas decorations, with wreaths at every shop front, Christmas trees and the sounds of carolling along the main streets.

It is a really magical atmosphere, especially when the snow falls (look at the timetable and plan to get your cameras out).

In addition to regular attractions and programming, there is a Christmas in July at Sovereign Hill-themed theatrical program and festive stalls selling Christmas themed arts and crafts.

Stock up on traditional Christmas decorations, treat yourself to a toffee apple or gather around the Diggings for a mulled wine.

If you’re visiting Sovereign Hill for just a Ballarat day trip, and for the first time, then it’s a good idea to plan your schedule so you don’t miss out on any of the special activities.

As we have been to Sovereign Hill several times and it is VERY busy on our visit (school holidays weekend) we opt not to bother with any of the Sovereign Hill Wonderlights scheduled activities and just to wander where the crowds, kids and fairy lights take us.

We also BYO marshmallows for roasting. I’m not sure why they haven’t cottoned on to marshmallow toasting as an activity but every second person asked us where we got our marshmallows from. I buy a giant box of marshmallows made by Ballarat company Grounded Pleasures at a local cafe Higher Society Eatery and they are perfect because they’re larger than normal (good for skewering) and very delicious.

The unmissable highlight during Sovereign Hill Xmas in July is when the Main Street lights up with a rainbow of moving projections by Electric Canvas, the team behind some of the stunning projections at White Night Melbourne.

We take up a position at 5:30pm at the top of the hill, which is less crowded than the rest of Main Street. It also means that you avoid most of the crowding (generally near New York Bakery) and you can walk down Main Street towards, rather than away from, the exit.

At 5:45pm the Sovereign Hill Christmas large-scale moving light projections start under a flurry of fake snowfall and music.

We admire the Ballarat light show at various locations on Main Street, with projections appearing to run on a loop. Note that the Gingerbread Man doesn’t feature this year (much to my kids’ disappointment), but it’s still a wonderful show.

We leave by about 6:30pm, with the projections finishing at 7pm.

Winter Wonderlights is a magical experience for young and old and well worth a day trip or even a mini-break to Ballarat. We are there from 2:30pm-6:30pm but you can easily stay for longer, especially if you’ve never been to Sovereign Hill before and want to see all the sights.

Sovereign Hill Winter Wonderlights is part of Ballarat’s Winter Festival which is also running in July 2024. The festival program generally includes ice skating, music, family-friendly shows and more!

winter wonderlights 2024 Ticket prices

With large crowds expected this year I recommend you pre-book your Sovereign Hill Entry Ticket to avoid missing out.

Ticket prices for Winter Wonderlights operate differently from standard Sovereign Hill tickets.

• Winter Wonderlights 10am – 7pm tickets are available every day from the evening of Friday 28 June through to Sunday 21 July 2024.  These tickets give you the full day at Sovereign Hill with all your favourites plus the spectacular Winter Wonderlights display which starts once the sun goes down at 5.45pm.
• Winter Wonderlights 5pm – 7pm tickets are available only for Saturday 6 July, Saturday 13 July and Saturday 20 July 2024. These tickets give you access to the spectacular Winter Wonderlights night time display which starts once the sun goes down at 5.45pm.

Tips for Sovereign Hill Winter Wonderlights:

• Peak times are school holidays and weekends;
• Parking is free on-site, though on busy days you may have to park in the Gold Museum or down the hill;
• BYO snacks and water so you don’t have to wait in line when hunger and thirst strike. Eateries get crowded, especially around lunch and dinner time. I actually like to bring a thermos of hot food;
• If having a period photograph, riding in a horse-drawn carriage, watching a gold pour or going on a mine tour is high on your to-do list then get there early and put your name down/buy a ticket as soon as you arrive. Everything except the mine tour was sold out by the time we arrive at 3pm;
• The mine tour has 90 seconds of complete darkness as you descend, which can be really scary for little kids;
• Some of the popular experiences such as candle-making are actually open until 7pm this year, so you can wait to do them after other experiences/shops have closed at 5pm;
• Instead of waiting in line at the Lolly Shop you can buy Raspberry Drops at various locations and get the award-winning pies and sausages rolls from the Hope Bakery within the Sovereign Hill cafe, although without the Victorian-era atmosphere;
• If you want a sit-down dinner you’ll need to book in advance;
• You can get a pass out if you need. For instance, if you arrive at opening time 10am then you may want to have a rest in the afternoon before returning to see the Winter Wonderlights.
• You can also get a pass out in order to have an early dinner elsewhere – The Forge Pizzeria is in town and recommended (you’ll need to drive) and a reader also suggests the Japanese restaurant across the road from Sovereign Hill;
• Most of Sovereign Hill’s attractions are outdoors so wear lots of warm gear. Ballarat experiences harsh winters and once the sun goes down it is really cold (although Sovereign Hill snow is generally not real). We dress in merino underlayers top and bottom, a jumper and a waterproof jacket, plus beanies, scarves and gloves. ;
• Gumboots are a good idea as the pathways get muddy, even on a dry day (plus if you have kids who love gold panning they WILL walk into the water). Do NOT wear white sneakers! I highly recommend the super comfortable, waterproof Merry People boots for women and kids;
• Bring a torch/glow sticks for added fun;
• Projections start at 5:45pm though the fairy lights switch on a bit earlier at 5:30pm;
• Sovereign Hill hours during Winter Wonderlights are 10am – 7pm;
• The best position for when the projections start is to start at the top of Main Street and then head down the hill, towards the exit. The momentum of the crowd means that you’ll be unable to push your way up the hill;
• All the shops take EFTPOS (even for small amounts). There is an ATM at the entrance, Sovereign Hill cafe and the post office;
• Melbourne to Sovereign Hill is a comfortable 90-minute drive along the Western Highway;
• train and tour coach services operate daily from Melbourne; and
• pre-book your Sovereign Hill Entry Ticket to avoid missing out.

Click here to find out what Sovereign Hill is like the rest of the year, including a review of the evening light show AURA

Click here for more things to do in Ballarat with kids

Best tips for visiting Lake Mountain

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The post Winter Wonderlights, Sovereign Hill Ballarat is the ultimate Christmas in July! appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

Here’s a list of the best places to enjoy snow play, skiing and ice skating in the city of Melbourne and beyond in Regional Victoria.

When is 2024 Snow Season in Melbourne & Victoria?

The Victorian snow season usually starts on the Kings Birthday long weekend, which will be Saturday 8 June 2024. It usually ends around September.

Closest snow to Melbourne

1. Mt Donna Buang

The summit of Mt Donna Buang is a great first experience of snow, because it’s close to Melbourne at 1 hour 45 minute drive and free.

There are three toboggan runs plus three moderate walking trails and a scenic lookout. Facilities at the summit include a covered picnic area, gas BBQs, and outdoor picnic tables.

Click here for the snow report.

VICTORIAN ALPINE RESORTS

2. Lake Mountain

Lake Mountain is only 2 hours drive from Melbourne, so it’s doable in a day. It’s great for families, international visitors short on time and now first-timers.

The mountain offers snow play, tobogganing, cross country skiing, snowboard lessons for kids and snow-shoeing. Read my top 8 tips for visiting Lake Mountain with kids.

Click here for the snow report.

3. Mt Baw Baw

As the closest downhill alpine snow resort to Melbourne (only 2.5 hours away) and with a third of the terrain dedicated to beginners, Mt Baw Baw is the perfect holiday destination for families, especially those with little ones. Read my full review. 

They have a huge array of snow activities from skiing to boarding, to husky dog sled tours and various events throughout the season. They’ve recently adopted two dingoes as their environmental ambassadors and visitors can also meet them and go on guided walks with Rudy and Warragul.

The mountain has a snow factory, which guarantees snow for the season from the opening weekend through to September 2024, even if the natural snowfall is light.

Click here for the snow report.

4. Mt Stirling

Mt Stirling is a cross-country alpine reserve and is relatively cheap compared to other ski resorts. You can also go snow-shoeing and enjoy snow play.

Click here for the snow report.

5. Mt Buller

Mt Buller is also possible as a day trip (I’ve done it!) but it is a 3 hour drive there and back, making it a very long and tiring day for little ones. I think it’s far better to stay the night – there are a wide range of hostels, lodges, luxury hotels and private chalets. Read my tips for visiting Mt Buller with kids.

To make up for the longer drive Mt Buller generally has the best conditions of the closer resorts. It also has the largest ski lift network in Victoria, with 22 lifts covering 300 hectares of skiable terrain, plus more than 40 cafes, bars and restaurants and Australia’s highest cinema. The Buller Kids’ Centre caters for children from just three months old.

The kids will make the most of slope of Bourke Street (now with new 6-seater Bourke Street Express chair lift) and there are two toboggan parks. A new ‘mini’ SnowFactory will top up the cover in the snowplay parks and the learner areas at the Ski and Snowboard School.

Click here for the snow report.

6. Mount Hotham

Mt Hotham is 5.5 hours from Melbourne. It offers 320 hectares of ski terrain for beginners, intermediate and advanced abilities, with 14 lifts. At 1,861 metres above sea level, Mt Hotham is Australia’s highest alpine village and is the one for serious skiers and snow adventurers.

For families, it offers daycare for kids 3 months to 5 years, free tobogganing and snow play areas, kids snowmobile rides and sled dog tours. Also kids 5 and under ski free and if one parent purchases a full day or half day lift pass, the second parent can purchase the Parents’ Pass – a 3 hour lift pass for only $74.

Dinner Plain is a relaxed village at the bottom of Mt Hotham. There’s no fee for getting on the mountain. Dinner Plain is great for families looking for an easy snow adventure and shuttle buses take skiers on the 10 minute drive to Mt Hotham.

Click here for the snow report.

Find Accommodation in Mount Hotham

7. Falls Creek

Falls Creek is a 5 hour drive from Melbourne and is Victoria’s largest skiable terrain.  It boasts 92 alpine runs and 21 cross country trails, 14 ski lifts, plenty of retail and rental and more than 35 cafes, restaurants and bars. A large proportion of the ski runs are suitable for beginners. A bonus is that they offer childcare for kids aged 12 weeks to 5 years old.

Click here for the snow report.

ice skating melbourne

Find your closest Melbourne ice rink for skating fun! Aren’t we so lucky to be surrounded by so many places to go ice skating in the city?

8. Winter Festival Eynesbury

The Eynesbury Winter Festival is a winter celebration from Friday 23 June running until Sunday 9 July. It’s the perfect place to go ice skating in the city and enjoy some tasty winter food & drinks from Ms Peacock and Birdy & Co. There’ll be so much to see and do, it’s the perfect winter outing for the entire family and should be added to your list of the best ice skating rinks in Melbourne.

It’s FREE to enter the Eynesbury Winter Festival but you will need to pre-book tickets for the ice rink.

Stay tuned for the schedule of exciting events!

9. O’Brien Icehouse, Docklands

Australia’s premier Olympic ice sports venue is open all year round for skating.

As a result, it’s a HUGE rink with great facilities – so anytime you’re looking for a Docklands skating recommendation, this indoors Docklands ice skating rink is one that I’d happily suggest.

10. Olympic Ice Skating Centre, Oakleigh

The training ground for future Olympians has public skating sessions with ample free parking and free skate hire. It one of the nicest ice skating places around that should definitely be checked out by the entire family.

Olympic Ice Skating Centre, 1080 Centre Road, Oakleigh South VIC 3167 03 9579 3755

11. Ice HQ, Reservoir

Ice HQ is an indoor Ice Skating Rink that was once Puckhandlers inline hockey stadium. Now it’s been transformed into a state-of-the-art ice skating centre for ice hockey games, lessons and general ice skating sessions, open 7 days a week. 

Ice HQ, 1 Blake St, Reservoir VIC, 3073  03 9478 2876

ice skating victoria

12. Ballarat Winter Festival

Ice skating is back in Ballarat this winter as part of the Ballarat Winter Festival from 24 June to 16 July 2023!

Take the time to visit the Sovereign Hill Winter Wonderlights as well as eating and drinking your way through Ballarat’s burgeoning food scene.

Click here for my 10 tips for a family ski trip or snow holiday

6 Best Places to go Ice Skating in Melbourne with Family and Friends

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The post 12 Places to Ski, Enjoy Snow Play and Ice Skating in Melbourne & Victoria appeared first on TOT: HOT OR NOT

Are you ready for some Lake Mountain snow? Lake Mountain is a Victorian ski resort that’s only 2 hours from Melbourne, making it a doable day trip with kids.

It offers cross-country skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing and general snow play fun!

If you’re only wanting to toboggan and snow play then here are my tips for making the most of your visit to Lake Mountain.

For downhill skiing, you’ll need to go to Mt Baw Baw, the next closest ski resort, or further afield again to Mt Buller.

When is 2024 Ski Season in Melbourne & Victoria?

The ski season usually starts on the Kings Birthday long weekend, which will be Saturday 8 June 2024. It usually ends around September.

Lake MouNtain SNOW Tips

1. Where to stay at Lake Mountain

There is no on-mountain accommodation at Lake Mountain. The nearest towns with accommodation are Marysville which is 25 minutes away, Narbethong (35 minutes away) and Healesville (60 minutes away).

Marysville is a small town and accommodation is limited, especially during peak periods such as weekends and school holidays. As such, even the most basic accommodation can be relatively expensive.

Find Accommodation near Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

Given that there is no downhill skiing at Lake Mountain my view is that you can do it in a day from Melbourne, or even just half a day if you don’t want to do any cross-country skiing either.

The resort also offers adventure activities such as laser skirmish and orienteering but at an additional cost.

(Note that some of the adventure activities such as the flying fox are currently unavailable. Keep an eye out on their Facebook and Instagram pages to be notified of when it opens up again.)

2. Hire your gear in advance

There is only one rental shop on the mountain so I recommend hiring your ski gear in Marysville or elsewhere in advance to save money and time.

For those who live in Melbourne’s inner west, I use Melly’s Inner West Melbourne Snow Hire based in Williamstown. The prices are cheap and the range is large. For instance, I hire 2 toboggans at $11 each vs $18 each on-mountain and 3 pairs of snow boots at $11 each vs $20 each on-mountain. Check out the price list.

On a separate note – wear snow boots. When I’m not downhill skiing I usually find gumboots are ok because I’m just walking around the village when I’m not in ski boots. But for tobogganing and snow play you really need purpose-made snow boots that are insulated and won’t trap snow and ice as easily inside.

The only thing I don’t hire in advance are snow chains because I am not certain that I need them. Turns out I do need to carry them on the day but fortunately don’t need to actually fit them!

3. Drive rather than take public transport or a tour

The best way to get to Lake Mountain is by car.

However, if you’re not confident in driving up there yourself, Lake Mountain has got you covered with a shuttle bus from Lake Mountain Visitor Centre to the resort. The shuttle bus runs on weekends and throughout the school holidays. The following times are available for the shuttle bus: 9 am departure from Marysville with a 1:30 pm departure from the resort, or a 10:30 am departure from Marysville with a 3 pm departure from the resort.

Tours often try to squeeze in Marysville, Steavenson Falls, Healesville, Yarra Valley.

Don’t do this!

In my view, that itinerary is too much for little kids.

With my kids we spend 3 hours (10am-1pm) at Lake Mountain and are pooped by the end. The other advantage of self-driving is that you can pack in food, drinks, spare clothes (see below).

4. Get there early

The resort opens at 8:30 am and the earlier you arrive, the shorter the line to get in, the better the carpark availability and the better the snow conditions.

If you arrive too late and it’s busy you’ll be directed to the lower carpark and then have to wait for a shuttle bus to take you up the mountain. This wastes time and energy better spent on the slopes!

The upper carpark is on the doorstep of the first toboggan run (Village Toboggan Run), the cafe and ski shop. If you get a car park close enough that means you can leave a lot of your gear and food inside the car and you don’t have to carry it all with you (you can see how close the carpark is to the snow in the photo below). There are no lockers on the mountain.

We arrive at 10 am (I was aiming for 9 am but the road was blocked due to an accident) and our car is 2 rows away from the edge of the snow. By the time we leave at 1 pm, the cars are parked all the way down the entry road.

5. Prepurchase your resort entry

As of 2023 car resort entry is $55.80 ( pre-booked online) or $62 at the gate. The price includes everyone in the vehicle, so long as there are no more than 9 seats.

Please note that as of this update, resort entry tickets need to be pre-purchased prior to your arrival. If you do not have a ticket, you will not be permitted to enter.

You can also buy an early bird season pass during autumn every year. By the time the snow season opens, you won’t be able to buy an early-bird pass. 

6. Just pay for the magic carpet

There is a magic carpet for the Village toboggan run and it’s especially worth the price if you have young kids.

Trekking up the hill can be hard work for little legs and will exhaust them before they even get to slide down. Children up to the age of 4 years need to be supervised by an adult.

7. BYO food and drinks, maybe play tools

There is only the Lake Mountain Bistro on the mountain and I had been warned that the range was limited and expensive. As such, I pack four thermoses of hot food, a fifth thermos of miso soup, fruit and a whole lot of chocolate.

I carry some of this in a backpack and leave the rest in the car. This approach saves us time and money.

Oh and don’t forget to BYO carrot for your snowman! I advise bringing some plastic tools and buckets for snow play too.

8. Pack spare socks and gloves

If you have spare socks and gloves, take them with you and leave them in the car. Eventually, someone will whine about having wet feet or wet hands, and being able to alleviate the discomfort immediately means that you’ll be able to stay out in the snow for longer.

If you need, take spare pants as well, though my kids just strip out of their ski pants into their merino tights for the ride home.

Finally – The key to all successful snow trips is to be prepared, be patient and remember to smile!

10 tips for a family ski trip or snow holiday

Visiting Mt Buller with kids and Mt Baw Baw with kids

Where to ski, enjoy snow play and ice skate in Melbourne and surrounds

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