School Holiday Activities in Sydney: The Best for Spring 2024

Spring has sprung and the spring school holidays in Sydney are officially here!

It's time to shake off the winter blues, pack away the jumpers, and dive into a world of sunshine and fun. From outdoor adventures to creative workshops, Sydney is bursting with school holiday activities that will keep the kids entertained and the whole family smiling. So, grab your sunnies and get ready for a spring break filled with unforgettable memories!

When Are the Spring School Holidays in NSW?

Mark your calendars, NSW parents! Spring school holidays in NSW run from Monday 30 September to Friday 11 October 2024 with most students returning to class on Monday 14 October.

Things To Do During the School Holidays in Sydney

1. Sydney Opera House

This spring, the Sydney Opera House presents a full calendar of family-friendly entertainment, with a range of exciting shows and interactive experiences for audiences of all ages, from heartwarming animal adventures to jaw-dropping circus performances and magical journeys. Your little ones can explore self-discovery with Edward the Emu, be captivated by the awe-inspiring feats of the Flying Fruit Fly Circus in Big Sky, experience an immersive introduction to Torres Strait Islander culture with Bangarra’s Waru – Journey of the Small Turtle, or get transported to a musical wonderland at Kids Music Playtime, a live music experience designed for toddlers and their families.

Plus, the free Creative Play workshops are an absolute must for hands-on fun, as kids can create their own turtle artwork using recycled materials inspired by Torres Strait Islander artists.

Where:  Sydney Opera House
When:   From 20 September
Cost:     From $25 | $8.95 booking fee applies to all transactions

RELATED:
The Best School Holiday Programs to Book This Spring

2. Australian National Maritime Museum

There's something for the whole family to enjoy when you sail for adventure at the Australian National Maritime Museum during these school holidays. From the latest exhibitions and hands-on creative workshops to exploring historic vessels, the whole family can dive into a day of interactive learning and fun. Kids will love the immersive experiences, themed activities, performances, films, and the chance to get creative in the Kids On Deck maker space.

Whether you're navigating the museum's fleet, uncovering treasures in the Cabinet of Curiosities, or relaxing in the Mermaid Melody book nook, the museum promises a full day of discovery, including special highlights like the Sneaky Sharks activity trail, underwater drone sessions, and torchlight tours, ensuring endless excitement for kids of all ages and an action-packed spring holiday program guarantees an unforgettable family adventure.

Where:    Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, Sydney
When:     Throughout the spring school holidays
Cost:       Museum Entry is $25 per adult, $15 per child under 15, and Under 4s FREE. Some workshops may incur additional costs.

3. School Holidays at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

Enjoy an exciting day out at the MCA with the magical works of Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, plus unleash your creative spirit with art-making activities, interactive experiences and tours specially created for families.

Dive into a world of colour, shadow, and reflection as you experiment with refracted light at the MCA's FREE Family Space: Light Lab. Inspired by artist Hiroshi Sugimoto's Opticks photographic series, explore the wonders of light in a special studio where you can 'paint with photons', open every day of the holidays.

Don't miss the fun-filled Family Day on Saturday 5 October and free drop-in making activities and tours throughout the School Holidays from 9 – 12 October.

Where:    Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 140 George St, The Rocks
When:     Throughout the school holidays
Cost:       General admission and Family Space are FREE, no bookings are required

4. Campbelltown Billabong Parklands

Campbelltown Billabong Parklands is the place to be for thrilling family fun and outdoor activities during the spring school holidays. This impressive water recreation park offers an interactive splash zone for kids to cool off, as well as pools that are open on weekends, making it the perfect spot to enjoy sunny spring weather. In addition to water play, a jam-packed schedule of activities will keep your pocket rockets entertained with scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, magic shows, and more.

Highlights include inflatable fun days where kids can tackle thrilling obstacle courses, as well as meet-and-greet sessions with park mascots. There’s also the chance to explore the parklands on a hidden creatures scavenger hunt or get creative with paper plane workshops. With so much on offer, Campbelltown Billabong Parklands promises a fantastic day out for families looking to make the most of the spring break.

Where:      Campbelltown Billabong Parklands, The Pkwy, Bradbury
When:       Monday 30 September - Friday 11 October 2024
Cost:         Inflatable Fun Day - $7.80 per child. Free entry for parents/guardians. All other events are FREE but bookings are essential

5. Monster Jump Sydney

Ready, Set, Bounce! Monster Jump is the ultimate school holiday adventure for kids aged 3 and up. Packed with over 30 thrilling obstacles and stretching a whopping 280 metres, it's sure to keep Sydney families entertained and energised.

Little adventurers will be worn out by the endless fun, with obstacles such as giant slides, climbing walls, and bouncy fun galore on offer. Plus, there is a NEW Monster Sports Jam Inflatable. Book your session now and spring into action-packed fun. Race you there...

Where:   The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park
When:    28 September to 6 October 2024
Cost:      $35 per ticket for a 2-hour pass (5 years to Adult)
               $45 per 2-hour toddler pass (Under 5, Includes Adult)
               Include the brand-new Monster Sports Jam for an additional $10 on either pass

6. School Holidays at the Museums of History NSW

These spring school holidays, be immersed in a world of history and fun with free entry to all Museums of History NSW’s museums and historic houses, and with extended hours at select sites, there's plenty of time to enjoy their engaging events and activities this spring.

Elizabeth Farm and Vaucluse House are hosting History Kids in the Garden where little adventurers can get their hands dirty exploring Indigenous plants, playing scavenger hunts, and cooking up a feast fit for a time-travelling guest. They'll dress up and experience life as it was 200 years ago, with traditional treats to wrap up your adventure. Across town at the Museum of Sydney, a feast of free creative activities is on offer with storytime sessions and craft workshops inspired by current exhibitions.

7. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel 

This spring, Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is offering a range of exciting activities for kids, set against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Families can head to this picturesque Sydney icon for a mix of fun and creativity that will keep little ones entertained throughout the school holidays. From outdoor yoga sessions to pizza-making masterclasses, there’s an activity for every budding yogi or young chef to enjoy.

In addition to yoga and cooking, kids can explore their artistic talents by decorating terracotta pots and crafting pipe cleaner flowers. Each activity is designed to be engaging and hands-on, allowing children to create something special to take home, making Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel the perfect spot to enjoy a family day out by the water while keeping the kids entertained.

Where:        Watsons Bay Hotel, 10 Marine Parade, Watsons Bay
When:         From October 1 on selected dates during the spring school holidays
Cost:           From $14 per child including meal

8. Puppeteria

With its long association with puppetry, Jackie and John Lewis' company, Jeral Puppets, has been performing professionally since 1966.

The Jeral Puppets have plenty of exciting performances taking place during the spring school holidays from an extensive list of shows; including The Three Little Pigs, Who’s New At The Zoo? and The Reluctant Dragon plus Rapunzel. Tickets for Puppeteria's shows can be booked online by visiting TryBooking.com.

Where:     Puppeteria Theatre, 12H Denawen Ave, Castle Cove.
When:      Throughout the holidays
Cost:        Admission is $13 per child and $16 per adult.

9. Stamp your Aussie Animal Passport at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium & WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

Prepare to take off on an extraordinary animal adventure across land and sea! These school holidays, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo are taking you on a journey with your very own Aussie Animal Passport. Embark on your intrepid voyage around Australia, discovering unique and iconic creatures and stamping your passport as you go!

There are also new and exclusive SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo trading cards to collect plus you can make a real conservation difference by adopting a seahorse and helping to recover this endangered species.

Where:     SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium & WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
                 Darling Harbour, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney
When:      Open Daily | 10 am - 5 pm. Last entry 4 pm
Cost:        Aussie Animal Passport - 2 Attraction Pass - Adult $68, Child $50
                 Under 2 FREE

10. Cockatoo Island

Make the most of the school holidays with an exciting adventure to Cockatoo Island. Enjoy additional tours on Tuesdays and Fridays, perfect for families and curious minds.

Explore the island’s layered history with the Island Highlights Tour, uncover 134 years of maritime history on the Historic Dockyard Tour or delve into the island’s turbulent penal history with the Convict Prison Tour. Plus, on Tuesday 1 October enjoy FREE heritage steam crane demonstrations from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Don’t miss this opportunity for fun Cockatoo Island spring school holiday tours in the heart of Sydney Harbour.

Where:    Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour
When:      Tuesday 1 October to Sunday 13 October 2024
Cost:       $25 Adult | $16 Child (12 and under)

11. Marrickville Metro Soccer Studio 

 

Soccer lovers win big these spring school holidays with Marrickville Metro introducing an exciting, free football event. The Soccer Studio is a unique fun activity where footwork meets artwork as kids get to immerse themselves in Aussie football and make their very own custom mini soccer ball.

Little Kickers will also be coming to the Marrickville Metro Soccer Studio and encouraging kids of all abilities to have fun with football and hone their soccer skills.

Where:  Marrickville Metro, 20 Smidmore Street, Marrickville
When:  Monday 30 September - Saturday 12 October 2024 (excludes Sundays)
Cost:    FREE but booking is essential due to limited availability

12. Meet Bluey & Bingo at The Australian Reptile Park

Wow your little one with a chance to meet their favourite tv character in person at the Australian Reptile Park. This Bluey live interactive experience is just one of many fantastic activities the Park has planned for the spring school holidays. Kids can join the fun with classic holiday games like Keepy Uppy and Magic Asparagus while roving keepers wow the crowd with captivating reptiles and adorable mammals. Kids big and small are invited to pet the animals and learn fascinating facts.

The Park's Kids 2 Keeper Program is perfect for parents looking to give their children a standout holiday experience and a deeper understanding of conservation. It's the ultimate hands-on adventure amd invites the next generation of keepers to join feeding sessions, enrichment activities, and habitat care.

Where:   Australian Reptile Park, Pacific Hwy, Somersby
When:   Saturday 28 September - Sunday 13 October 2024 | 9 am – 5 pm
Cost:    Bluey Live Interactive Experience is FREE with your Park entry ticket
             General Admission: Adult - $54.99; Child $34.99; Children under 3 FREE. Family Pass $149.99. SAVE when purchasing online.

13. Darling Harbour

 

Spring has sprung, and Darling Harbour is bursting with excitement and imagination. From open-air roller skating by the harbour and fireworks to a line-up of free creative workshops and the spectacular fireworks at Cockle Bay every Saturday night.

There is so much happening for kids during the spring school holidays at Darling Harbour across the board, including aquatic and wildlife adventures at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo with their Aussie Animal Passport, oceanic expeditions at the Australian National Maritime Museum and creative workshops at the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

Where:  Darling Harbour
When:  Saturday 28 September - Sunday 13 October 2024
Cost:    Various depending on activity, lots of FREE activities on offer For the full spring school holiday program head to Darling Harbour

14. Art Gallery of NSW

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a hive of activity for the spring school holidays as art lovers of all ages are invited to explore a world of imagination with FREE drop-in workshops and roving art-making tours. There is so much to see and do throughout the school holidays for children of all ages and entry is FREE.

The new exhibition Kwatja Kngarritja Tnyirlalhama (Big Rain Falling) has been unveiled at the gallery featuring an immersive art-making activity designed in collaboration with Grace Kemarre Robinya and artists from Tangentyere Artists and Yarrenyty Arltere Artists art centres in Mparntwe/Alice Springs.

Where:  Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney
When:  Open daily | 10 am – 5 pm and until 10 pm Wednesdays School holiday activities - 30 September - 11 October
Cost:    Entry and all activities are FREE

15. Bounce Into BOUNCE Sydney

Immerse yourself in the high-energy, gravity-defying fun of BOUNCE Sydney these school holidays. This trampoline park and activity hub is an exhilarating haven for fun-seekers of all ages, with a dynamic atmosphere and diverse range of attractions tailored to maximize both fun and physical fitness across every age and skill level.

BOUNCE Holiday Camps are a super fun, healthy way to keep kids entertained and away from screens during the holidays. Delivered in a safe environment, these sessions are the perfect opportunity for kids to meet new friends and try new skills.

Where:  BOUNCE Homebush, U 2/3 201 Parramatta Road, Homebush West
When:  30 September – 4 October and 7 – 11 October 2024
Cost:    $65 per child per day

 16. TRANSFORMERS ONE Hits Cinemas

Hitting cinemas in time for the spring school holidays, TRANSFORMERS ONE takes us back to where it all began—on the legendary planet of Cybertron! This time, we're diving deep into the origins of Optimus Prime and Megatron, witnessing the brotherhood that once united them before their fateful rift ignited the endless battle between Autobots and Decepticons.

With stunning animation, an all-star voice cast, and a fresh take on the iconic franchise, TRANSFORMERS ONE promises to be an action-packed, emotional journey that fans won’t want to miss.

Where:   Cinemas across Australia
When:    From 19 September 2024
Cost:      Price dependent on location

Check out more family movies coming to cinemas these holidays. 

17. Spot On Children's Festival at Riverside Theatres

A seriously fun activity for thespians, Riverside Theatres' Spot On Children's Festival is back with one of the biggest lineups ever!

From 28 September to 20 October 2024, Riverside Theatres will present a program full of joy and wonder, hosting MAGICAL theatre and musical performances, workshops, and many more entertaining events for the whole family! Check out the full lineup of shows and kids' activities.

Where:     Riverside Theatres, Corner Church and Market Streets, Parramatta
When:      28 September to 20 October 2024
Cost:        Various | See individual events for ticket prices

18. City of Sydney School Holiday Intensives

Make a splash these school holidays with the Fast Track Intensive Swimming Program, available at select City of Sydney pools.

This program is an exceptional opportunity for your child to rapidly enhance their swimming skills and boost their confidence in the water. To secure a spot in this sought-after program, contact  The Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Cook + Phillip Park Pool or Gunyama Park Pool.

Where:      All six City of Sydney Aquatic and Leisure Centres:
                  Cook + Phillip Park Pool - 4 College St, Sydney 
                  Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre - 458 Harris St, Ultimo
                  Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre - 17 Zetland Avenue, Zetland
                  Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool - 1C Mrs Macquaries Road, The Domain
                  Prince Alfred Park Pool - 105 Chalmers Street, Surry Hills
                  Victoria Park Pool - City Road (cnr Parramatta Road), Camperdown
When:       Enquire for swim intensive program dates
Cost:         Enquire for pricing details at the time of booking

19. Creatures of the Ice Age at Sydney Zoo

Step into the Ice Age and come face to face with giant, roaring creatures on a prehistoric adventure at Sydney Zoo. Grab your map and embark on an adventure through the icy landscape in search of life-size, moving beasts that once ruled our frozen planet. Get up close to the mighty mammoth, ferocious sabre-toothed tiger, playful polar bear, woolly rhino, and many more! Plus, for the first time in Australia, marvel at the giant jaws of the massive megalodon shark.

Creatures of the Ice Age is FREE with your zoo ticket.

Where:  Sydney Zoo, 700 Great Western Highway, Bungarribee
When:   Saturday 28 September – Sunday 13 October 2024 | 9 am - 5 pm
Cost:     FREE with your Sydney Zoo day ticket, Unlimited Pass, Platinum Pass  or Membership
              Day Tickets Online - Adult $44.99 | Child $19.99 |& Under 3s FREE
              Unlimited Pass Online - Adult $54.98 | Child (3-15 years) $34.98
              Platinum Pass Online& - Adult $109.99 | Child (3-15 years) $79.99

20. Discover ARC at Taronga Zoo

Enter the dragon's den and get up close to curious creatures that jump, slither, and crawl at Taronga Zoo's new Amphibian and Reptile experience, ARC. 

This brand-new experience will take you on a journey through six immersive zones, transporting you from the frosty alpines to the scorching desert and to many other habitats in between. The perfect school holiday activity that combines excitement with education.

Where:    Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman
When:      Daily | 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Cost:        Zoo Entry: Adults $44.10 | Children (4 - 15 yrs) $26.10 | Concession $35.10
                 Under 4s FREE
                 Annual Membership:
                 Family Membership $110 per adult with children under 16 yrs from the same household included free.
                 Individual Memberships $99 per adult. Concession memberships $79.

21. Sydney Fringe Kids

The Sydney Fringe Festival will coincide with the spring school holidays in Sydney this year so families can dive into sensory displays, interactive music, bubble magic, mad science, and more!

Sydney Fringe Kids is always a highlight of the Sydney Fringe Festival and this year's lineup is no different. From magical bubble shows to The Giant Balloon Show, KABOOM!, and loads more, kids and adults will be captivated by theatre, science, magic, and adventure.

Where:       Darling Quarter, Sydney + other locations throughout the city
When:        1 September to 6 October 2024
Cost:          Various depending on the event 

22. Spark Magic With Disney Princesses at Westfield 

Calling all princes and princesses, grab your tiaras and get ready to spark magic with your favourite Disney Princesses at Westfield this spring!

Westfield is rolling out the red carpet for a month-long celebration of all things Disney Princess, and it's the perfect way to add a sprinkle of magic to your family's school holidays. Get ready for Spark Magic Stations, Cinderella Meet-and-Greets, Disney Princess Adventure, plus, the chance to Win a Dream Trip to Walt Disney World!

Where:   Select Westfields across Sydney (see below)
When:    23 September to 13 October 2024 during Westfield opening hours
               Bondi Junction: 23 September to 6 October
               Mt Druitt: 28 September to 4 October
               Parramatta: 30 September to 4 October
               Liverpool: 3-6 October
               Penrith: 5-11 October 
               Eastgardens: 7-10 October
               Miranda: 7-13 October
               Kotara: 7-13 October
               Westfield Sydney: 11-13 October
               Warringah Mall: 6-13 October
Cost:      The Spark Magic Stations are FREE | A $5 booking fee applies to Cinderella Meet-and-Greet that goes towards Make-A-Wish Australia 

23. Step Back in Time at The Transport Heritage Expo

The Transport Heritage Expo is a treasure trove of experiences to transport you back to yesteryears. From vintage steam trains to classic buses and historic steamboat cruises, this event has it all. Departing from Central Station, these rides offer a unique way to explore Sydney while reliving the past.

Don't miss the iconic Central Station Clock Tower tours and the delightful 1960s dining carriage experience, complete with a cosy tea service.

Where:      Central Station Grand Concourse, Railway Colonnade Drive, Sydney.
When:       5-7 October 2024
Cost:         Varies depending on the activity.

24. Enter A Prehistoric World at Dinos Alive

This one is for all the dinosaur fans out there! Dinosaurs are roaring into Sydney these spring school holidays for a roar-some adventure!

At Dinos Alive, you'll get to see what it’s like to stand in the shadows of the largest creatures to have walked the earth and meet over 80 life-sized specimens from both famous and lesser-known species such as the T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Velociraptor, and Suchomimus. With its breathtaking replicas and immersive environment, Dinos Alive is an experience loved by dino fans of all ages. 

Where:    Sydney Olympic Park, Fever Pavilion
When:     From Sunday 27 September 2024 | time slots every 30 minutes
Cost:       TBA

25. DIY Doughnut Decorating at Krispy Kreme

Get into the yummy spirit of the spring school holidays with Krispy Kreme's Doughnut Decorating workshops!

Get your creative Krispy Kreme paper hat on and be ready to decorate two Original Glazed® doughnuts with a whole range of fun and funky toppings these school holidays. This sweet experience is available at selected stores in NSW for just $9.50. 

Where:    Select NSW Krispy Kreme stores (see below)
When:     30 September to 9 October - see stores below for individual sessions
                Auburn
                Chatswood
                George Street
                Liverpool
                Mascot
                Miranda
                Parramatta Westfield
                Penrith
Cost:      $9.50 per participant

26. Explore Lavender Lane at the Grounds of Alexandria

Feel like treating yourself and the kids? Treat your eyes and your tastebuds at the magical Lavender Lane at the Grounds of Alexandria.

The newest installation at The Grounds has opened just in time for the spring school holidays in Sydney so families can step into a purple paradise covered with fresh blooms, lush greenery, and canopies of colourful flowers. Before grabbing a coffee or a delicious themed treat at The Cafe, The Garden or The Potting Shed, wander through a purple paradise filled with lavender, wisteria, and jacaranda, all emitting a heavenly scent. Divine!

Where:    The Grounds of Alexandria
When:     On now until late October 2024
Cost:       FREE entry for diners at one of The Grounds venues

27. Enter a Real-Life Upside Down House at House Down Under

House Down Under is unlike any experience we've seen in Sydney because it's a house… just UPSIDE DOWN! How is that possible?

Get ready to explore topsy-turvy rooms and upside-down interiors on one seriously kooky day out with the family - you'll be talking about the pictures for years to come!

Where:       Market Square, Rouse Hill Town Centre, Rouse Hill 
When:        Throughout the holidays
Cost:          Adults $27, Kids(4-15 years) $19, Concession (students and seniors with ID) $23, Family Pass (1 Adult + 2 Kids) $52, Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Kids) $74, Family Pass (2 Adults + 1 Kid) $59.ney

28. Awesome Kids' Shows in Sydney

Sydney is loaded with incredible theatre performances for all ages, and the month of spring is lining up to be epic!

From Tinkerbell & The Dream Fairies to Emma Memma, Edward the Emu, and There's a Sea In My Bedroom, grab your tickets to one of the many awesome kids' shows happening these school holidays in Sydney.

Where:     Various theatres across Sydney
When:      Throughout the holidays
Cost:        Various depending on the show

More Spring Events in Sydney

Spring in Sydney 2024: Events, Flowers, Festivals & Family Fun
Tulip Time 2024 Brings 80,000 Tulips to Life
Secret Garden: Lavender Lane at the Grounds 

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