The Spring school holidays are always bursting with arts entertainment for Sydney kids and families. From the raucous Sydney Fringe lineup, to packed stages across town, as well as music, art and a bevy of bookish goodness, there’s more than enough arts and creativity to fill up the whole break.
Festival Season!
Sydney Fringe Kids
“Fringe Kids lights up with family-friendly shows across the Festival, then doubles the fun with a dedicated two-week program during the October school holidays! With events at The Entertainment Quarter and beyond, little Fringers can enjoy music, magic, bubbles, science and more. Don’t miss ABC Kids favourites Lah-Lah with the Sydney Youth Orchestra for one special night at Turner Hall. Filled with giggles and gasp-worthy moments, Fringe Kids is your go-to destination for big imaginations, curious minds and unforgettable memories.”
Spot On Children’s Festival (Riverside Theatres, Parramatta)
“This spring school holidays, experience an unforgettable line-up of family-friendly performances, high-energy circus acts, and immersive artworks as Riverside Theatres’ annual Spot On Children’s Festival takes over from 30th September to 9th October. Featuring four jam-packed shows with six artists, this extraordinary celebration of imagination, creativity and curiosity brings together the best in local and national talent for a thrilling week of family fun.”
On Stage
Moss Piglet
“A new Australian work from Windmill Theatre that explores the world of tardigrades, also known as “moss piglets” or “water bears”. These curious microscopic creatures are known for surviving multiple extinction periods and extreme environments – including outer space! The production uses puppetry, movement, live video and green screen to introduce young audiences to the science and mystery behind these resilient organisms.”
Where: Sydney Opera House
When: 26 – 28 September
Recommended Age: 5+
Tickets: $39
The Smeds and the Smoos
“Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler (also seen in the TV animation on ABC Kids). On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?”
Where: Seymour Centre
When: 27 – 29 September
Recommended Age: 3+
Tickets: $39
Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies
“In an enchanting world of song and dance, the adventurous Tinkerbell meets up with the fairies from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Together, the cheeky Mustardseed, fluttery Moth, daring Cobweb and sweet Peaseblossom go on a magical quest with Tinkerbell. The audience is invited to dress up and join in the fun! Come as a fairy, an elf, a Jedi, a pirate or even a superhero! Everyone is welcome to join this sparkling adventure with a special visit to ‘Bubble Land’ to help Tinkerbell and her new fairy friends find her lost wings.”
Where: Royal Botanic Garden
When: 27 September – 12 October
Tickets: $25 – $30
Gardener’s Apprentice
“A one-of-a-kind intergenerational experience, this hybrid performance-workshop is designed for partners of one child and their nanna, yeye, aka, pop or favourite grown-up. Each pair is invited to share stories and explore movement with props, music, and projection, adventuring together as the garden becomes a place of play, transformation, and imagination. As the garden grows, so does the connection. From the quiet of winter to the joy of spring, Gardener’s Apprentice celebrates life with a promise that growth continues as long as we share our stories.” See our preview of Force Majeure’s Gardener’s Apprentice on Instagram
Where: Carriageworks
When: 1 – 4 October
Recommended Age: 5+
Tickets: $15 – $80
Bottom’s Dream
“Join us these school holidays for an immersive, interactive introduction to Shakespeare with live performances and hands-on activities based on the show! In this adventurous, hilarious and heart-warming show, we explore the magic and mayhem of Shakespeare’s classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Take Bottom’s hand and help him piece together his strange dream through key scenes from the original play, playing with Shakespeare’s language and characters along the way. … A magical introduction to Shakespeare for primary students.”
Where: The Seed, Pier 2/3
When: 1 – 4 October
Tickets: $30
Murmur
“An Australian premiere combining circus, physical theatre, acrobatics and sound art from Belgium’s Grensgevalt Theatre. Murmur follows a character who creates a soundscape from everyday objects and movements. The performance includes interactive elements, rustling sound backpacks and a landscape of speakers, transforming the theatre into a multi-sensory environment.”
Where: Sydney Opera House
When: 1 – 8 October
Recommended Age: 4+
Tickets: $42
The Adventures of Snugglepot & Cuddlepie
“May Gibbs’ quintessentially Australian classics have fascinated and delighted children for generations, introducing them to the wonder and magic of the Australian bush. In this new outdoor adaptation created by seasoned, environmentally focused children’s entertainment troupe Eaton Gorge Theatre Company, the iconic Tales of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie come to life for contemporary audiences in a funny and interactive 60-minute performance staged in beautiful outdoor locations.”
Centennial Parklands – 1 October
Parramatta Park – 2 October
Mario The Maker Magician
“Direct from NYC, magic’s punk rock Peter Pan philosopher arrives in Sydney with a show that blends DIY robotics, inventive slapstick and sleight of hand with inspirational art and science, and a message to “do what you love, use what you have and have fun!”. Mario has appeared on Sesame Street and Jimmy Fallon’s The Tonight Show and is described by David Blaine as “the best kids’ magician in the world.”
Where: Sydney Opera House
When: 2 – 12 October
Recommended Age: 4+
Tickets: $39.95
Dog Man: The Musical
“With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of Dav Pilkey’s beloved characters.”
Where: Seymour Centre
When: 7 – 9 October
Recommended Age: 6+
Tickets: $44
The Bogong’s Song
A new work for children by Bangarra Dance Theatre. “The Bogong’s Song is a rich blend of storytelling, shadow puppetry, dance, and song created especially for primary-aged children. As the children open their hearts to the stories of their ancestors, we are all invited to experience connection to Country and discover that even the smallest creatures have a vital role to play. “
Where: The Studio Theatre at Bangarra
When: 8 – 19 October
Recommended Age: 5+
Tickets: $45
Spot
“Spot and his friends are off on a new adventure to visit Spot’s Dad on the farm and meet the farm animals. But when they arrive, all the animals are lost! Can Spot and his friends find them all? They might need a little help from their new friends in the audience… Eric Hill’s beloved puppy comes to life on stage in a show that’s fun for the whole family, with puppetry, songs, and puzzles for children aged 18 months to 7 and their adults.”
Where: Seymour Centre
When: 10 – 12 October
Recommended Age: 18 months – 7 years
Tickets: $39
What the Ocean Said
“ From local Sydney artist James Brown, an immersive installation of light and sound, this guided meditation invites children and their carers to follow the underwater journey of a humpback whale. Designed to introduce younger audiences to mindfulness and sensory storytelling.”
Where: Sydney Opera House
When: 11 – 12 October
Recommended Age: 4+
Tickets: $25
&Juliet
For older kids – “What if Shakespeare’s Juliet didn’t end it all for Romeo? What if she got a second chance at life, love, and her own happily-ever-after? … Bursting with heart, humour, and spectacular staging, & Juliet is powered by a playlist of pop anthems from Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Celine Dion, The Backstreet Boys, and more.”
Where: Riverside Theatres (Parramatta)
When: 3 – 19 October
Recommended Age: 10+
Tickets: From $71.50
Back to the Future
“Take an electrifying ride back in time with London’s Olivier Award-winning best new musical, adapted for the stage by the creators of the original movie trilogy. … Welcome to Hill Valley! When Marty McFly finds himself transported back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown, he accidentally changes the course of history. Now he’s in a race against time to fix the present, escape the past and send himself… back to the future.”
Where: Lyric Theatre
When: From 26 September
Recommended Age: 6+
Tickets: From $65
Music
Where to Hide a Star
“Experience Oliver Jeffers’ heartwarming new tale of starry wonder, magical adventure and the power of friendship – beautifully staged with live music by an Australian Chamber Orchestra string quartet.”
Where: ACO on the Pier – The Neilson
When: 1 – 11 October
Recommended Age: 3 – 8
Tickets: $39
Emma Memma
Emma Memma’s “Dance Island Party” dances its way into Sydney. “Coconut dancing, seahorse singing, wombat rolling, and a whole lot of twirling.” Tickets to these dates here.
5 October – Sutherland – The Pavilion
7 October – Penrith – Evan Theatre
8 October – Chatswood – The Concourse
The Vegetable Plot
The Vegetable Plot brings their “award winning musical comedy show … packed full of veggie bangers” The Pajamazon Jungle, as well as their songwriting workshop The Magic Garden, to Bondi Pavillion. These experiences may be booked separately or together.
When: 10 – 11 October
Recommended age for show is 3+
Recommended age for songwriting workshop is 5 – 9
Tickets – Pajamazon Jungle – $30
Tickets – The Magic Garden – $15
Book Lovers
State Library of NSW
“Join us for a hands-on, imagination-fuelled workshop for children that explores architectural ideas, presented in partnership with the NSW Architects Registration Board. Come on a guided tour of the new exhibition The Curious World of Pamela Allen and draw inspiration from her whimsical worlds to create your own.”
When: 29 and 30 September
Recommended Age: 8 – 12
Tickets: $20
Russ the Story Bus
“Hop aboard Russ the Story Bus, the traveling library from the Sydney Writers’ Festival! This isn’t just any bus—it’s covered in vibrant illustrations and filled with books waiting for you to borrow. Step inside this welcoming space where kids can cosy up with a book or join special storytime sessions featuring authors and illustrators who bring stories to life.”
Where: Darling Harbour, Pier Street Underpass
When: 2 – 5 October, 10:30a.m. – 12:15p.m.
Love Your Bookshop Day
“Love Your Bookshop Day is an annual celebration of everything that makes local bookshops special—from knowledgeable staff and handpicked book selections to fun events that bring authors, readers, and stories together. Join the festivities! Bookshops around the country will be hosting exciting events, competitions, and activities to bring the joy of books and reading to life. Come along and discover all your local bookshop has to offer—meet authors, find new reads, and be part of a community that shares your love of books!”
Love Your Bookshop day is 11 October. Check your local bookshop to see how they will celebrate.
Local Libraries
Be sure to check the listings at your local library to see what free and low cost activities they are offering for school holidays!
Art Kids
Art Gallery of NSW
“Enjoy two new interactive exhibitions, workshops, kids tours and storytime these school holidays.”
Find the full schedule of school holidays activities at Art Gallery of NSW here.
Art Activities at Darling Harbour
“These spring school holidays, step into a vibrant world where imagination takes centre stage and creativity knows no bounds. It’s a season to dream big, build boldly, and let your inner adventurer shine. Expect a space-themed twist across Darling Harbour: think rocket making, cosmic painting and astronaut fun.”
You can always find ideas for family arts activities happening around Sydney on the Artsplorers Calendar of Events. And, follow on Instagram for “What’s On Wednesday” updates and all sorts of arts for kids content.