School’s out. Here’s what's on across the Hunter these school holidays
The school holidays are almost here, and we’ve rounded up the best ways to keep little people entertained across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Valley.
From creative workshops and outdoor adventures to family-friendly events and plenty of things to get everyone out of the house, consider this your cheat sheet for two weeks of spring holiday fun.
Things to do
Dullboy’s Social Co.
Need somewhere to take the kids when “I’m bored” inevitably starts making the rounds? Dullboy’s Social Co. has tenpin bowling, mini-golf, arcade games and plenty more to keep the whole family entertained these spring school holidays.
Tenner Til Ten
Early risers, this one’s for you. Enjoy $10 games of tenpin bowling or mini-golf between 9am and 10am. No reservations required.
Plenty For a Twenty
One game of tenpin bowling plus a $10 arcade game card for $20pp. Available until 4pm.
Feel Alive for Fifty-Five
For $55pp, get one game of tenpin bowling, one game of mini-golf and a $30 arcade game card. Available all day.
And while you’re at Dullboy’s Warners Bay, make time for a bite at The Diner, serving up American-style classics alongside all the games. You can also take on PIXEL, Dullboy’s exclusive floor-is-lava-style game that you won’t find anywhere else around Newcastle or Lake Macquarie.
There’s more happening across the school holidays, head to dullboys.com.au for the full lineup.
Where: Dullboy’s Social Co. – 326 Hillsborough Rd, Warners Bay | 57 Shipley Dr, Rutherford
When: Deals valid 26 September – 12 October 2026. Deals cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.
What’s on these school holidays
Newcastle
Staying local? From coastal adventures to creative days out, we’ve rounded up the best ways to spend the spring school holidays in Newy.
Murray Raine’s Marvellous Marionettes | 26 Sep–11 Oct
Discover glittering characters created by Newcastle-born puppeteer Murray Raine, from Punch and Judy figures to pop-culture personalities and works from his professional career. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Museum
Mr Squiggle and Friends: The Creative World of Norman Hetherington | 26 Sep–11 Oct
Meet Mr Squiggle, Blackboard, Rocket, Bill Steamshovel and Gus the Snail through original puppets, props, sketches and an interactive squiggle-drawing experience. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Museum | 6 Workshop Way, Newcastle
Sonic Swing Fest | 26 Sep
Twelve emerging youth acts perform across a six-hour all-ages music festival, with giveaways and a round of mini golf included. Cost: Early-bird tickets $20; one supervising adult per group enters free.
Where: Rippit Golf | 20 Curley Road, Broadmeadow
Black Light Nights | 26 Sep
Use specialist UV equipment on a guided night walk to search for fluorescent scorpions, lichen, spiders and other hidden natural details. The Saturday tour is for ages eight and over. Cost: Adults $49; concessions $39; children $29.
Where: Glenrock State Conservation Area | Yuelarbah Track, Burwood Road, Highfields
Newcastle Brickfest | 26–27 Sep
Explore almost 300 tables of LEGO creations by more than 120 exhibitors, plus speed-building competitions, a children’s build area, minifigure hunts, colouring, cosplay and a Sunday sensory session. Cost: $10 per person or $35 per family online; children under three free.
Where: Newcastle Jockey Club | 100 Darling Street, Broadmeadow
Hunter Wetlands Spring Festival| 27 Sep
The wetlands’ open day features live music, market and food stalls, a jumping castle, face painting, roaming reptiles, children’s activities, walks, talks and demonstrations. Cost: Free.
Where: Hunter Wetlands Centre | 1 Wetlands Place, Shortland
Tocal Homestead Open Day | 27 Sep
Take a self-guided audio tour through the historic house, farm buildings and gardens, then picnic on the lawns or pick up refreshments. Cost: $2–$15.
Where: Tocal Homestead | 957 Tocal Road, Tocal
LEGO Challenges: Newcastle City Library | 28 Sep
Race against the clock to complete imaginative LEGO building challenges that encourage teamwork, experimentation and problem-solving. All LEGO is supplied. Runs 10:30am–11:30am for ages 5–12. Cost: Free; drop in without booking.
Where: Newcastle City Library
Dan Froshams’s Newcastle Surf School I 28 Sep–9 Oct
Dive into an epic surf camp in the school holidays and ride the waves like a pro! Designed for beginner and intermediate surfers aged 7–13, this 4 day camp is packed with 2 surf sessions a day, fun beach games, daily activities, and all meals included. Bring your sleeping gear and get ready for sun, surf, and non-stop fun! Head to Newcastle’s surf school for detailed information and bookings.
Ninja Parc School Holiday Camp I 28 Sep-9 Oct
Adventure awaits at Ninja Parc these school holidays! Book in for supervised full- and half-day sessions for kids aged 6-14, to experience Ninja Parc’s epic course and learn new skills. Morning and afternoon snacks and a ninja headband are included, with lunch available to purchase.
Where: Ninja Park Newcastle | Crn Tooke & Brooks St, Cooks Hill
High Speed Rail School Holiday Activities | Weekdays, 28 Sep–9 Oct
Children and carers can drop in to build a train, try hands-on activities and learn about the proposed high-speed rail connection between Newcastle and Sydney. Cost: Free; no booking required.
Where: High Speed Rail Authority Newcastle Hub | 175 Scott Street, Newcastle
Discover Sport Spring Holiday Camp | 28 Sep-9 Oct
Looking for a way to keep your kids active, happy, and new skills these school holidays? Book in to Discover Sports Group’s Spring Holiday Camp. Enjoy three sports in one camp – tennis, pickleball, and put putt – packed with variety, fun, and expert coaching. All ages and abilities welcome. Camp hours: 8.30am-3.00pm (early drop-off from 8.00am and late pick-up until 4.00pm). Cost: $95 per day.
Where: District Park Tennis Centre, Broadmeadow
NuSport Holiday Camps I 28 Sep-9 Oct
Newcastle University’s holiday camps are the perfect way for your child to stay active, learn new skills, and make new friends. Each session mixes fun games with sports practice, finishing with a cool-down in the splash zone. With 8 sports to choose from, including oztag, basketball and netball, there’s something for everyone! When: 8.30am-5.00pm. Ages: 6 -12 years.
Where: University Drive, Callaghan. Active kids vouchers can be used. For detailed information and bookings, head to Nusport.org.au
Basketball Beginner Camp (5-14 years) | 28 Sep
Book in for a foundational basketball skills program with a focus on skill development in a fun, positive and inclusive environment for all participants. When: 8.30am - 2.30pm.
Where: 27 Young Rd, Broadmeadow
Junior Ranger: Glenrock Coastal Adventure | 28 Sep
Young explorers aged 5–14 can join a ranger-led coastal walk featuring local wildlife, coastal landscapes and Glenrock’s fossilised forest. The approximately 3km walk is graded medium. Cost: $18 per child; accompanying adults free.
Where: Bombala Walking Track, Glenrock State Conservation Area | Dudley Beach, Dudley
Newcastle Jets Holiday Clinics | 28 Sep–9 Oct
Young footballers can choose from community clinics, girls-only sessions, a mini World Cup and a goalkeeper masterclass at venues across the Hunter. Cost: Varies by clinic.
Where: Various Hunter venues
Riverlights Bricks 4 Kidz | 28 Sep
Children aged five to 12 can build Riverlights-inspired LEGO creations during a two-hour afternoon workshop. Cost: Not listed.
Where: Rutherford Library | Arthur Street, Rutherford
Motiv8 Sports Summer Camps | 28 Sep–9 Oct
Motiv8sports Lake Macquarie and Newcastle treat kids like rockstars! They get them excited about sport and help them learn about teamwork and sportsmanship in an environment where fun is king. For ages Kindy to Year 6. Time: 8.30am-3.30pm. Cost: Varies per event. Active/Creative Kids vouchers are accepted.
Where: Locations include Belmont High, Jesmond, Macquarie College, and Merewether High.
Newcastle Transport Big Day Out | 29 Sep–1 Oct
Children aged four to 12 and their carers learn to use light rail, ferry and bus services before travelling to Stockton for playground time. Each child receives a $10 Child Opal card and activity pack. Cost: Free; bookings required.
Where: Newcastle Interchange | Stewart Avenue, Wickham
Museum Kids: Toys from the Past | 29 Sep
Children aged 7–10 can investigate toys from different eras, try traditional games and create a toy-inspired craft to take home. An adult must remain with children under ten. Cost: $15 plus booking fee.
Where: Sugar Valley Library Museum kirantakamyari | 156 Portland Drive, Cameron Park
Escucha! A Spanish Sound Adventure | 29 Sep
Explore the sounds made by everyday objects, learn simple Spanish words through music and play, and create a recycled-material instrument to take home. Children also receive a sound-hunt activity for the journey home. Runs 10:30am–11:30am for ages 5–8. Bookings required; the session was waitlist-only when checked.
Where: Newcastle City Library
Paper Flower Craft: Wallsend Library/Newcastle City Library | 29 Sep & 8 Oct
Children can use paper, colour and imagination to make bright flowers inspired by nature during this one-hour afternoon craft session. Runs 2pm–3pm. Cost: Free; bookings essential.
Where: Wallsend Library (29 Sep) & Newcastle City Library (8 Oct)
Basketball Intermediate Camp | 29 Sep
Book in for an intermediate basketball camp with a focus on skill development and how to apply it to game situations at a more advanced level. When: 8.30am-2.30pm. Ages: U12s - U18s.
Where: 27 Young Rd, Broadmeadow
Lenny’s Country | 30 Sep
Worimi Elder and artist Aunty Debbie Dates leads an evening of storytelling, art and knowledge sharing, brought to life through Curious Legends’ illuminated puppets and hands-on family activities. Cost: Free; registration requested.
Where: Carrington Foreshore
Kids Bingo: Newcastle City Library/Wallsend Library | 30 Sep & 7 Oct
Play several lively rounds of bingo, line up three spaces and call out “Bingo!” for the chance to win a prize. Designed for children aged 5–12. Cost: Free; bookings essential.
Where: Newcastle City Library (30 Sep) & Wallsend Library (7 Oct)
LEGO Challenges: Wallsend Library | 30 Sep
Young builders race the clock to create imaginative LEGO models while developing teamwork and problem-solving skills. All LEGO is supplied. Runs 10:30am–11:30am for ages 5–12. Cost: Free; no booking required.
Where: Wallsend Library | 30 Bunn St, Wallsend
Air-Dry Clay Mini Bugs: Wallsend Library/Newcastle City Library | 30 Sep & 7 Oct
Shape a miniature bug from air-dry clay and take it home to dry without kiln firing. Runs 2pm–3pm for ages 5–12. Cost: $5 plus booking fees; bookings essential.
Where: Wallsend Library (30 Sep) & Newcastle City Library (7 Oct)
Ocean Rockpool Nature Tour: Glenrock | 6 Oct
Search coastal rockpools with an NPWS guide for crabs, shells, sea squirts, sponges, shark egg cases and other marine life. Suitable for ages five and over. Cost: Adults $20; concessions $17; children $14.
Where: Meeting behind Merewether Ocean Baths amenities building | Henderson Parade, Merewether
Friendship Bracelet Workshop: Newcastle City Library | 6 Oct
Create a colourful friendship bracelet using beads and thread during this guided one-hour workshop. Runs 10:30am–11:30am for ages 7–14. Cost: $5 plus booking fees; bookings essential.
Where: Newcastle City Library
Gums to Bums Science Shows | 7 Oct
Follow a mannequin’s breakfast through the digestive system, investigate poo and farts, touch a real stomach and find out whether you are a supertaster. Three 45-minute shows run from 11.15am. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Museum | 6 Workshop Way, Newcastle
Blue Gum Hills Aboriginal Cultural Tour | 7 Oct
An Aboriginal ranger shares cultural stories and explains how native plants have traditionally been used for food, shelter and medicine on a two-kilometre family walk. Suitable for ages four and over. Cost: Adults $20; concessions $17; children $14.
Where: Blue Gum Hills Regional Park main car park | Minmi Road, Minmi
The Rainbow Fish Musical | 8–11 Oct
The much-loved picture book becomes a large-cast musical about kindness, friendship, belonging and learning that generosity matters more than appearance. Cost: Ticketed; price not listed.
Where: Young People’s Theatre Newcastle
The Secret Life of Plants at Awabakal | 8 Oct
Join a local guide for a three-kilometre wildflower walk through Awabakal Nature Reserve, learning about local biodiversity and significant plants. Suitable for ages five and over. Cost: Adults $20; concessions $17; children $14.
Where: Awabakal Nature Reserve | End of Ocean Street, Dudley
Marionette Melodrama | 8–9 Oct
Young people aged nine to 14 spend day one creating a recycled-material marionette, then co-write and perform a script with their puppet on day two. Cost: $50 total plus fees; bookings essential.
Where: Newcastle Museum | 6 Workshop Way, Newcastle
Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical | 10–11 Oct
Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven come to life with a live orchestra, elaborate sets, special effects and songs from the film plus numbers written for the stage. Recommended for ages five and over. Cost: Weekend tickets from $89; four-ticket bundles from $54 per person.
Where: Civic Theatre
Festival of Sweets & Treats | 11 Oct
Dessert makers, chocolatiers, lolly stalls, food trucks and dietary-friendly vendors gather with demonstrations, live music, markets, competitions and children’s entertainment. Cost: Ticketed; price not listed.
Where: The Station Newcastle
Feeling arty? See what’s on at New Annual for the kids, with plenty of creative ways to get little imaginations moving.
Bloom | 26 Sep–11 Oct
Wander through an immersive oversized garden filled with colourful foliage and whimsical three-dimensional characters, created for visitors of all ages. Cost: Free.
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson Street, Charlestown
SOAK: Live at the Baths | 26–27 Sep & 2–3 Oct
Bring a picnic or swimmers for sunset concerts featuring Hermitude and Claire O’Brien, Newcastle jazz and soul artists, Kobie Dee with 92WRLD, and Karen Lee Andrews. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Ocean Baths | Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle East
Cavitation: Hands-On Making Workshops | 26 Sep & 3 Oct
Families can respond creatively to Izabela Pluta’s ocean-focused exhibition in two hands-on Saturday making sessions. Cost: Free; bookings required.
Where: The Lock-Up | 90 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Cavitation: Breathing Ocean | 26 Sep–4 Oct
Found sea floats gather, separate and shift with the tide in an all-ages installation that visitors can view or swim beside in Newcastle’s Canoe Pool. Children must be supervised. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Canoe Pool | Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle East
Curtain Call: Strut Your Stuff | 26–27 Sep & 3–4 Oct
Transform discarded textiles into wearable art, watch hourly Saturday runway shows or visit on Sunday for a quieter low-sensory session. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Museum Park and McIntyre Theatrette | 430 Hunter Street, Newcastle
At Sea | 26–29 Sep & 1–4 Oct
Dancers respond to the tide, wind and sand in a free 30-minute morning performance at the water’s edge, followed by a relaxed public movement workshop requiring no dance experience. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Canoe Pool | Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle East
Press Play | 1–3 Oct
Fifty young actors race to open a show in 50 minutes while audience-operated buttons alter the action in this relaxed, interactive family production. Cost: Adults $20; under 18s $15.
Where: The Playhouse, Civic Theatre
NM:PM: PUNK! | 1 Oct
An all-ages celebration of Newcastle punk combines live sets with DIY zines, posters, badges, fashion and a human-sized claw machine. Loud music, smoke, concert lighting and possible coarse language apply. Cost: Free.
Where: Newcastle Museum
Global Table | 2–3 Oct
Two family-friendly evenings celebrate Asian and South American food and culture through chef demonstrations, music, dance, lantern making and Day of the Dead art workshops. Cost: Free.
Where: Wheeler Place | Hunter Street, Newcastle
Port Stephens
Fancy a day trip out to the Bay? From meeting marine life to getting crafty and exploring the coast, Port Stephens has plenty in store.
Free Daily Fish Feeding | 26 Sep–11 Oct
Watch local marine life gather at the marina boardwalk and take part in the daily 10.30am feeding session. Cost: Free.
Where: d’Albora Marinas Nelson Bay | 6 Teramby Road, Nelson Bay
Shoal Bay Country Club Spring School Holiday Activities | 27 & 29 Sep, 1, 4, 6, 8 Oct
The free program includes Bricks 4 Kidz, pony rides and a petting zoo, magic shows, slime and ball making, Australian wildlife, a kids’ disco, projector games and prizes. Cost: Free.
Where: Shoal Bay Country Club | 35–45 Shoal Bay Road, Shoal Bay
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants | 28 Sep
Enjoy a free family screening of the PG-rated SpongeBob adventure, with a 10am session at Tomaree Library and a 2pm session at Raymond Terrace Library. Cost: Free; bookings required.
Where: Tomaree Library and Raymond Terrace Library
PCYC Port Stephens School Holiday Program | 28 Sep–2 Oct & 6–9 Oct
Children aged five to 12 can spend full days rotating through gymnastics, team sports, obstacle courses, STEM, craft, dance, circus skills, LEGO and laser tag. Cost: $55 per day; book three days and receive the fourth free.
Where: PCYC Nelson Bay & PCYC Raymond Terrace
Collage Pollinators: Tomaree | 29 Sep
Children aged seven to 12 create a three-dimensional butterfly or skipper collage with Hunter artist Gemma Kirschner while learning about regional pollinators. Cost: $10.
Where: Tomaree Library & Community Centre
Base Zero Rock Climbing Wall | 30 Sep–7 Oct
Young climbers can test their skills, build confidence and burn off energy on a holiday climbing wall operating daily from 10am–4pm. Cost: Not listed.
Where: d’Albora Marinas Nelson Bay
Bee Hotels | 1 Oct
Children aged eight to 12 build a bee hotel with Port Stephens Community Woodworkers and take it home with pollinator-friendly seeds. Cost: $10.
Where: Tomaree Library & Community Centre
Recycled Bird Craft | 2 Oct
Children aged five to 13 create spring birds from recycled cardboard and mixed craft materials at concurrent library sessions. Cost: $5.
Where: Tomaree Library and Raymond Terrace Library
Fairy Garden | 7 Oct
Children aged eight to 14 create a miniature fairy garden complete with their own clay decorations at concurrent library sessions. Cost: $5.
Where: Tomaree Library and Raymond Terrace Library
Junior Ranger: Tomaree Coastal Adventure | 8 Oct
Children aged four and over explore angophora forest and Little Kingsley Beach with a Discovery ranger on a two-hour coastal adventure. Cost: $18 per child; accompanying adult free.
Where: Tomaree National Park entrance | Corner Pacific and High Streets, Fishermans Bay
Ocean Rockpool Nature Tour: Tomaree | 9 Oct
Join a ranger to search for crabs, shark egg cases, shells, sponges and other wildlife on a one-kilometre rockpool walk. Suitable for ages five and over. Cost: Adults $20; concessions $17; children $14.
Where: Fishermans Bay Foreshore | Pacific Street, Fishermans Bay
Tea and Trinkets | 9 Oct
Teens aged 12–18 can create keychains, earrings and bags while enjoying bubble tea at concurrent library sessions. Cost: $5.
Where: Tomaree Library and Raymond Terrace Library
Junior Ranger: Shorebirds and Mangroves | 10 Oct
Children aged five and over explore Stockton sandspit with a ranger, photograph shorebirds and learn about mangrove habitat through hands-on activities. Cost: $18 per child; accompanying adult required.
Where: Stockton Sandspit, Hunter Wetlands National Park | Fullerton Street, Stockton
Hunter Valley
From clay workshops and bird walks to outdoor cinema and Riverlights, there’s plenty happening across the Hunter Valley these school holidays.
World Rivers Day in Upriver Downriver | 28 Sep
Celebrate river biodiversity with a family presentation and an exclusive exploration of the Upriver Downriver exhibition. Best suited to ages five to 14, with all ages welcome. Cost: Free.
Where: Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Huntlee Tavern School Holiday Activities | 28 Sep–9 Oct
The tavern’s holiday program includes children’s movies and popcorn, LEGO activities, colouring, an ice-cream bar and selected face-painting and balloon sessions. Check the organiser’s program for session times and meal conditions. Cost: Selected activities free or included with a meal.
Where: Huntlee Tavern | 3 Empire Street, North Rothbury
Leaf Imprinting with Air-Dry Clay: Cessnock | 29 Sep
Young makers use natural leaf forms to create textured impressions in air-dry clay. Recommended for ages 10–16. Cost: Not listed.
Where: Cessnock City Library
Family Clay Play Workshop | 29 Sep
Families with children aged three and over can learn pinching, coiling and slab-building techniques, with all materials supplied. Cost: From $30 per family group.
Where: Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Tawny Frogmouth Bird Walk | 29 Sep
Join a family bird walk, talk and craft session focused on the tawny frogmouth and local habitat. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: Free.
Where: East Maitland Library
Imaginaturalists Workshop | 29 Sep
Explore fungi through science and art before creating fungi-inspired watercolour paintings and polymer-clay sculptures. Runs 2pm–3pm for ages 8+. Cost: $5 per person; bookings and parental supervision required.
Where: Singleton Public Library
Springtime Fairy Wands | 30 Sep
Children can paint and decorate a colourful paddle-pop-stick fairy wand during this relaxed school holiday craft session. Cost: Free; bookings required.
Where: Performance Arts Culture Cessnock | 198–202 Vincent Street, Cessnock
Film and Craft | 30 Sep
Settle in for a family animated film, snacks and a take-home craft activity during this afternoon holiday session. Cost: Not listed.
Where: Branxton Community Hall
Drawing Workshops for Tweens and Teens | 30 Sep
Two guided workshops cover practical drawing techniques: tweens meet from 10am–12pm, followed by observational drawing for ages 12–16 from 1.30pm–3.30pm. Cost: $30 per workshop; materials supplied.
Where: Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Paper Embroidery Workshop | 30 Sep
Discover paper embroidery by following a supplied pattern or designing an original stitched artwork using colour, texture and personal details. Runs 11:30am–12:30pm for ages 8+. Cost: Free; bookings and parental guidance required.
Where: Singleton Public Library
Create Your Own Paper Squishy | 1 Oct
Design the shape and colours of a sensory paper squishy, then construct it from simple craft materials to take home. Runs 10am–11am for ages 5+. Cost: Free; bookings and parental guidance required.
Where: Singleton Public Library
Wizarding Movie Marathon | 2 & 6 Oct
Come in pyjamas or house colours, bring a wand, blanket or beanbag and settle in for four wizarding films, beginning with a cereal breakfast at 8am. Sessions run at 8am, 11am, 2pm and 5pm, with snacks supplied. The first three films are PG and the fourth is rated M. Cost: Free; bookings are required for each film attended.
Where: Singleton Public Library
Cinema Under the Stars: Maitland | 3 Oct
Arrive from 4.30pm for family activities, live music, food and free popcorn before an outdoor screening of How to Train Your Dragon begins at sundown. Cost: Free.
Where: Maitland Park | Les Darcy Drive, Maitland
Riverlights Lantern Workshop | 6–9 Oct
Make a paper lantern to carry in the Riverlights flotilla, with sessions running daily from 10am–1pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: Not listed.
Where: Maitland Regional Art Gallery | 230 High Street, Maitland
Wizardry Workshop | 6 Oct
Children aged five to 13 can learn interactive magic tricks with Trace of Magic in a playful one-hour workshop. Cost: $5 per child; accompanying adults free.
Where: Maitland Town Hall
Music Bingo | 6 Oct
Children identify songs from favourite films and family music to complete their bingo cards. Recommended for ages six to 12. Cost: Not listed.
Where: Cessnock City Library
Fireworks Paper Embroidery | 7 Oct
Young people aged 10 and over can stitch a fireworks-inspired paper design and take home a starter pack, with afternoon tea included. Cost: $5.
Where: East Maitland Library
Spin Poi Workshop | 7 Oct
Learn the basics of poi spinning in an all-ages workshop connected to Maitland’s Week of Riverlights program. Cost: Not listed; bookings essential.
Where: Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Cardboard Flower Bowl Workshop | 7 Oct
Create a practical low-mess cardboard bowl, then decorate it with colourful flower designs ready to hold small treasures and trinkets. Runs 1:30pm–2:30pm for ages 5+. Cost: Free; bookings and parental guidance required.
Where: Singleton Public Library
School Holiday Rock Painting | 7 Oct
Decorate rocks with colourful artwork and positive messages during one of two creative holiday sessions. Cost: Free; bookings required.
Where: Performance Arts Culture Cessnock | 198–202 Vincent Street, Cessnock
Dungeons & Dragons: The Black Parade | 8 Oct
Teens aged 12–17 can join a beginner-friendly cooperative Dungeons & Dragons adventure, with afternoon tea provided. Cost: Free.
Where: East Maitland Library
Compost Culture Workshop | 8 Oct
Learn how organic waste breaks down and discover the organisms that help create healthy soil. Participants can explore worm farms, tumblers, bins, cages and compost bays. Runs 10am–11am for ages 7–12. Cost: Free; bookings and parental supervision required.
Where: Singleton Community Garden | 46 Bathurst St, Singleton
Silent Disco | 8 Oct
Children aged five to 12 can dance with wireless headsets, play movement games and try a glowing hula hoop with a professional children’s entertainer. Cost: From $0.
Where: Branxton Community Hall
Riverlights Crafty Cinema: The Tiger’s Apprentice | 8 Oct
Watch the PG-rated film with some lights left on for BYO craft; basic snacks and craft materials are supplied. Cost: Free.
Where: East Maitland Library | 3 Garnett Road, East Maitland
Bengali Storytime: Bonobibi and the Sundarbans| 9 Oct
Share Bengali folklore, then help build a collaborative mangrove model and make paper boats during this family storytime. Cost: Free.
Where: Rutherford Library
Nature’s Night Gardeners | 9 Oct
Explore connections between wildlife, flowers and forests through pollination games, wildlife photography and hands-on art. Children can paint a nocturnal animal, try origami and learn how flying foxes support healthy ecosystems, with an activity book and stickers to take home. Runs 10am–12pm. Cost: Free; bookings and parental supervision required.
Where: Singleton Public Library
Enchanted Forest Workshop | 9 Oct
Children can create clay woodland creatures, magical homes, crowns, masks and potions, then play garden games in the Secret Garden. Cost: Check organiser page.
Where: Leaves & Fishes | 737 Lovedale Road, Lovedale
Catapult STEM Challenge | 9 Oct
Put engineering skills to the test by designing, building and improving a miniature working catapult from simple materials before seeing how well it launches. Runs 3pm–4:30pm for ages 8+. Cost: Free; bookings and parental supervision required.
Where: Singleton Public Library
Maitland Riverlights | 10 Oct
More than 40 cultures come together through live music, dance, a language lounge, food demonstrations, cultural villages, a parade, lantern flotilla and finale. Cost: Free.
Where: The Levee | High Street, Maitland
Lake Macquarie
Get creative at the gallery, hit the sporting field or hop aboard a miniature train in Lake Macquarie.
MAP mima Rocks | 26 Sep
Five local bands bring alternative, indie and grunge sounds to a free all-ages afternoon and evening beside Lake Macquarie. Cost: Free.
Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima | 96 Creek Reserve Road, Speers Point
Macquarie Football School Holiday Clinic | 28 Sep–1 Oct
Players aged five to 12 of all abilities can build passing, dribbling, defending and goal-scoring skills through four mornings of small-sided football activities. Cost: $45 for one day; multi-day packages from $75.
Where: Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility | 13 Park Road, Speers Point
Cinema Under the Stars: Lake Macquarie | 10 Oct
Pack a picnic for a free outdoor screening of How to Train Your Dragon, with live music, children’s games, food vans and free popcorn before the film begins at sundown. Cost: Free.
Where: Speers Point Park | Park Road, Speers Point
Draw Yourself as an Animal | 30 Sep
Young artists aged 10–16 will combine a self-portrait with features from a native Australian animal using drawing and pastel techniques inspired by the exhibition Of This Earth. Cost: Check booking page.
Where: Museum of Art and Culture yapang
Gone Buggo Show | 7 Oct
Science communicator Steven Gill combines live animals, playful LEGO photography and colourful storytelling in an all-ages exploration of Australian biodiversity. Recommended for ages five and over. Cost: $10 plus booking fee or $15 at the door.
Where: Rathmines Theatre | 25 Stilling Street, Rathmines
Dungeons & Dragons School Holiday Adventure | 6–7 Oct
Players aged 10–16 can tackle a two-day fantasy quest designed for young people who already understand the game’s basic rules. Cost: $30 plus booking fee; Lake Mac Libraries members $27.
Where: Windale Hub bilyabayi | 20 Lake Street, Windale
PCYC Lake Macquarie Holiday Program | 28 Sep–2 Oct & 6–9 Oct
Children aged five to 12 can spend full days rotating through gymnastics, team sports, obstacle courses, STEM, craft, dance, circus skills, LEGO and laser tag. Cost: $55 per day; book three days and receive the fourth free.
Where: PCYC Lake Macquarie
Make Your Own Fabric Monster Plushie or Keyring | 30 Sep
Use fabric offcuts and recycled clothing to design a one-of-a-kind monster plushie or keyring, with hand and machine-sewing options available. Children aged 12 and under require an accompanying adult. Cost: Check booking page.
Where: Toronto Library tirrabiyangba
Edgeworth Miniature Trains | 27 Sep
Take the family for an afternoon of miniature railway rides around the Lake Macquarie Live Steam Locomotive Society grounds. Enclosed shoes are required and rides operate weather permitting. Cost: $3 per ride; children under two ride free.
Where: Lake Macquarie Live Steam Locomotive Society | 31 Velinda Street, Edgeworth
Spirit Animal Sculptures | 7 Oct
Young people aged 10–16 can design a symbolic animal sculpture in air-dry clay, drawing inspiration from native wildlife and the exhibition Of This Earth. Cost: $20 plus booking fee; members $16.
Where: Museum of Art and Culture yapang
Places
Spring School Holidays at Hunter Valley Gardens
Step inside the butterfly house, meet baby lambs, make lanterns and daisy chains, watch bee and koi demonstrations, try face and wood painting, and add amusement rides to the day. Open daily 9am–5pm. Cost: Adults $42; children 4–15 $31; ages three and under free; rides extra.
Where: Hunter Valley Gardens | 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin
Spring School Holidays at Hunter Wetlands
A bird-themed program combines daily bird bingo, quizzes and a photo display with guided bird walks, Wednesday dip-netting and crafts, reptile encounters and selected after-dark wildlife tours. Cost: From free with entry to $15, plus admission where stated.
Where: Hunter Wetlands Centre | 1 Wetlands Place, Shortland
Australian Reptile Park
Enjoy live entertaining shows, themed exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours. Learn about conservation work and their lifesaving snake and spider venom collection work!
Where: Pacific Hwy, Somersby
Blackbutt Reserve
Blackbutt Reserve is a haven for nature-loving kids. Visit the animal exhibits, have a picnic on the grass, or go exploring on one of the many walking trails through the bush.
Where: Carnley Ave, Kotara
Charlestown Square Entertainment Pass
Be warned! There’s more fun than most people can handle in their Entertainment Passes: bowling, mini golf, games, and food all crammed into one massive day.
Where: 30 Pearson St, Charlestown
CoastXP
Get the kids outdoors these school holidays and explore the Hunter coastline and spot some whales and other marine life with CoastXP.
Fighter World
For the lovers of planes! There’s plenty to see and do with many improvements and some new displays.
Where: 49 Medowie Rd, Williamtown
Go Karts Go
Do the kids like racing? Well, Newcastle’s biggest, fastest, and most exciting 4-stroke go-kart track at Go Karts Go Broadmeadow is open and ready and raring to go!
Where: McDonald Jones Stadium | Turton Rd and Griffiths Rd, Broadmeadow
Hunter Ice Skating Stadium
Escape the heat, and take the kids for a skate on the ice. Head along to Hunter Ice Skating Stadium at Warners Bay for a whole new world of frozen fun.
Where: 230 Macquarie Rd, Warners Bay
Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
Feed the free-roaming animals or listen in on one of the daily shows!
Where: 138 Lomas Ln, Nulkaba
Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters
Explore the large lagoons with sandy shores, rocky reefs, caves, crevices, and holes, and have a shark and ray experience like no other. The Irukandji Shark & Ray Centre in Anna Bay is one of the best family-friendly experiences and is ideal for the school holidays.
Where: 2 Jessie Rd, Anna Bay
Ninja Parc
Kids climbing the walls? Let them climb at Ninja Parc instead! Ninja Parc Newcastle will be running 3-hour, fully supervised school holiday programs for kids aged 6-14 years on weekdays throughout the school holidays.
Where: Ninja Parc | Cnr Tooke and Brooks St, Cooks Hill
Oakvale Wildlife Park
Head along with the family and explore the free-roaming animals, keeper talks, feeding shows, playground, BBQ facilities as well as an onsite cafe.
Where: 3 Oakvale Dr, Salt Ash
Pick your own oranges
Open every day during the school holidays, head on down to Dooralong on the Central Coast and enjoy a day out picking your own oranges.
Where: 48 Dittons Rd, Dooralong
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Stay overnight in the sanctuary in a glamping-style tent or a motel suite and wake up with koalas in their spectacular natural bushland setting!
Where: 562 Gan Gan Rd, One Mile
Pulse Climbing
Can’t get the kids to stop climbing? Head to the indoor rock-climbing space, Pulse Climbing. With two locations in Newcastle; Adamstown and Warners Bay, as well as one on the Central Coast at Gosford, and one at Maitland!
Revolution Sports Park
Located in Maryville, Revolution Sports Park is home to THREE major areas of fun; trampoline park, inflatables park, and the bubble soccer area. What a great way for the kids to burn off some energy whilst you can relax for a minute or two.
Where: 55 The Ave, Maryville
Rippit
Take the kids to Broadmeadow to tackle the 18-hole mini-golf course that comes complete with a unique design, with no walls or barriers in the way of your shots, plus two levels per hole to allow for a fun challenge.
Where: 20 Curley Rd, Broadmeadow
Sandboarding on Stockton Dunes
Get the adrenaline pumping and sandboard down Stockton sand dunes. It’s a great experience for the whole family and the Sand Safari team operates six separate sessions every Saturday and Sunday.
Toboggan Hill Park
Take on the challenge of the 1km Toboggan Run reaching speeds up to 50km p/h. With lots of other activities available at the centre; you can spend a whole day there!
Where: 16 Aquatic Cl, Nelson Bay
Treetops Adventure Park
Head along to either the Newcastle or Central Coast Locations and experience the iconic Australian bush like never before. Get up close and personal with native Australian flora and fauna as you climb, weave, and fly through the treetops on self-guided rope courses. On the Central Coast, kids can also experience NetWorld.
Urth Fitness
Urth Fitness is offering free gym memberships to 14–18-year-olds across the Summer school holidays. The Good-Will Gym Program aims to boost teens’ physical, mental, and social wellbeing by encouraging healthy movement and reducing screen time. Kids receive almost six weeks of free access across all three Urth Fitness locations: Lambton, Charlestown, and Belmont.
Westfield Kotara Mini or Mega Kids Pass
Grab a Mini or Mega Kids Pass for hours of fun at Westfield Kotara. For $30, kids aged 12 and younger can enjoy EMF Junior, a donut from Donut King, a smoothie from Boost Juice, and a Little Golden Book from Harry Hartog. For $46, kids aged 16 and younger get a ticket to Event Cinemas VMAX, 30 minutes all you can play in Timezone, a burger from Grill’d, and an ice cream from Cold Rock Ice Creamery.
Where: Cnr Park Ave & Northcott Dr, Kotara
Winmark Wines Sculpture Walk
Winmark invites you to a family-friendly Sculpture Walk suitable for the entire family. Enjoy a stroll amongst the vineyard as you take in the spectacular array of sculptures from large to small, everywhere you look you’ll be enthralled as you seek the next one. The kids will have their own A3 colouring maps with crayons to capture their creativity as they stop and draw what they see.
Where: 229 Wollombi Rd, Broke
Have we missed somewhere? Email us!
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