Melbourne School Holidays Winter – Friday 28 June to Sunday 14 July 2024

Melbourne is getting ready for some seriously fun and exciting events these winter school holidays, running from Friday 28 June to Sunday 14 July 2024.

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.

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