School Holidays Sydney – July 2023 – Programs and Activities

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Hello and welcome, you’ve found this page whilst searching for fun school holiday activities and programs in Sydney for your kids.

The question is, where to start?

There are literally hundreds and hundreds of fun things to do each and every school holidays.

Sydney in School Holidays

Each Sydney school holidays is different, from mermaid courses over the long summer holidays to the Easter Show and then winter and spring breaks. Each has its own special events and fun activities.

If you are a family coming to visit Sydney during the school holidays then Hello Sydney Kids. You don’t have to trawl through the internet. The information you need is all there.

NB If you need to know the dates of Sydney school holidays, just click here on the NSW Education website.

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Saving money during kids school holidays

The holidays can be a real drain on the family purse so it is essential to find out free and cheap activities, events and places to go.

On this website there are detailed posts on literally hundreds of places in Sydney which you can visit at no cost and which make for great school holiday fun.

Check out the following posts:

Top 10 Free and Low Cost Things To Do in Sydney in School Holidays

Free School Holiday Activities Western Sydney

Deals on Boobobutt

Lock in great fun these school holidays with a great deal on Boobobutt! Book today to secure a place!

Build a bear Lollipops

School Holiday Programs

Code Camp Programs

Find CODING & CREATIVE HOLIDAY PROGRAMS for kids 5-13!

Let Code Camp inspire your children to get creative with technology these holidays, learn some valuable new skills, have fun and make new friends. With a wide range of programs and online camps available, there really is something for everyone. Choose from beginner to advanced coding camps, stop-motion animation, DJing, video production and so much more!

Code Camp Program

What’s New? Code Camp is launching a brand-new Minecraft Engineers program for Winter. Kids will love this exciting blend of engineering and creativity within the wonderful world of Minecraft! Plus a brand-new Design Camp for kids with an eye for design. Over three days your child can learn design fundamentals, fashion design, interior design and more!

Roblox Legends, a game design camp, has been incredibly popular since it launched over summer and Code Camp is bringing it back for the Winter holidays. Plus Jurassic World and Minions camps return; code your own Jurassic World or Minions game (for kids 7-12 years) or create an animated stop-motion movie starring your favourite dinosaurs or Minions characters (for kids 5-7 years).

Find a great camp near you!

Sydney’s Best School Holiday Activities for Kids

Do you feel a tinge of worry creeping in as the school holidays approach, wondering how to keep your kids entertained and engaged? Are you getting overwhelmed by the soaring expectations your kids have for their school holiday activities?

We’ve all been there, where our children’s eyes sparkle with excitement, longing for something new and different to do each day on the holiday. 

Plus, saying “No” can be particularly tough, especially when we want them to have the best experiences while creating precious memories together. 

Thankfully, Sydney, with its wealth of opportunities, ensures that we always have options. Whether it’s exploring captivating museums, immersing themselves in the wonders of nature, or unleashing their creativity through hands-on workshops, Sydney has it all.

But these activities are more than just entertainment. They are invaluable opportunities for our children to learn and grow. From discovering new interests to acquiring new skills, these experiences in Sydney open doors to a world of knowledge and discovery. 

Moreover, when we actively participate alongside our kids, we create cherished moments that strengthen our bond. 

That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best activities in Sydney, offering an enriching and unforgettable holiday experience for your little ones.

Join us as we delve into Sydney’s vibrant cityscape, unlocking the potential for adventure, laughter, and growth. 

National Indigenous Art Fair 

Are you searching for an exciting and educational activity to engage your kids during the school holidays? 

Look no further than the National Indigenous Art Fair (NIAF), where a world of fun and culture awaits! It’s one of the best kid’s holiday activities Sydney offers in 2023.

This vibrant event, taking place at the Overseas Passenger Terminal from the 1st to the 2nd of July, offers a fantastic opportunity for kids to immerse themselves in the rich and ancient Indigenous culture. 

At the NIAF, your children can embark on a captivating journey of discovery through colourful dance performances, storytelling sessions, cultural adornment workshops, and more. 

They’ll have the chance to join in the festivities, participating in the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony procession. 

National Indigenous Art Fair
Source: National Indigenous Art Fair

From energetic and inclusive dance performances by Djiriba Waagura Aboriginal Dance Group to traditional and contemporary Torres Strait Island dances by Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam Dance Group, your kids will be enthralled by the rhythm and beauty of Indigenous art. 

Moreover, they’ll have the chance to hear captivating stories from Larry Brandy, a proud Wiradjuri storyteller and author, and even become kangaroos, emus, and hunters as they learn about Indigenous hunting and food-sourcing techniques. 

Additionally, there will be weaving workshops, interactive dance sessions, cultural adornment workshops, and even bush tucker cooking demonstrations, where your young ones can explore the flavours and spices of Australian bush foods. 

Mark your calendars for the NIAF and create unforgettable memories with your family while supporting remote artists.

Visit to Sydney Zoo

Living in Australia, one of the most diverse countries on Earth, we would want our kids to appreciate the incredible variety of wildlife and cultures that make Australia so special. 

This school holiday, let’s spark their curiosity with a trip to Sydney Zoo. Join us on an exciting adventure where your family can learn about our country’s natural and cultural heritage. 

Situated in the heart of Sydney, Sydney Zoo offers an amazing opportunity for children to discover Australia’s astonishing range of wildlife. 

Sydney Zoo

As your family explores the zoo’s fascinating exhibits, your kids will come face to face with iconic Australian animals like kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. 

They can observe these incredible creatures up close, developing a deep connection and appreciation for their role in Australia’s delicate ecosystem. 

At Sydney Zoo, they celebrate not only Australian wildlife but also the multicultural tapestry that defines Australia. 

Through themed sections like the African Boardwalk and Primate Boulevard, kids can explore different cultures from around the world. Through this experience, Sydney Zoo will become a window into the diverse heritage that shapes our country, teaching your children the values of respect, understanding, and embracing differences.

So, join us for an adventure this holiday at Sydney Zoo, where your kids will explore the magic of Australia’s natural and cultural heritage. Let their imaginations soar as they learn about the incredible diversity that surrounds them every day. 

Indoor Rock Climbing

Are you ready to take your family on an unforgettable adventure that combines physical activity, fun, and a chance to conquer new heights? Look no further than indoor rock climbing and bouldering in Sydney! 

As the school holidays approach, give your kids a thrilling experience they’ll never forget while fostering their fitness, confidence, and problem-solving abilities. Discover the best climbing gyms in Sydney, where you and your little ones can embark on an exciting journey together.

Picture the excitement on your kids’ faces as they conquer their fears, reach new heights, and celebrate their accomplishments. 

Indoor Rock Climbing

Indoor rock climbing and bouldering provide the perfect opportunity for your family to bond, support one another, and cheer each other on. Watch as your children develop strength, agility, and resilience, all while having a blast and creating lasting memories. 

So, why not add some adventure to your school holiday plans and introduce your kids to the exhilarating world of indoor rock climbing in Sydney? Let the thrill and excitement begin!

Trampoline Jumping

Are you tired of hearing those familiar words from your kids during school holidays, “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do”? We’ve all been there, desperately trying to find activities that will keep them entertained and active. Well, here’s an exciting solution that will have your kids jumping for joy – trampoline parks in Sydney! 

These indoor wonderlands are not just your ordinary trampolines. They are massive, adrenaline-pumping playgrounds that offer a wide range of trampolines and attractions to keep your little ones engaged and entertained for hours. Say goodbye to boredom and hello to endless fun this school holiday!

Get ready for a world of bouncing, flipping, and soaring through the air as your kids experience the thrill of trampoline parks. These parks are specifically designed to provide a safe and exhilarating environment where children can unleash their energy and show off their acrobatic skills. 

Trampoline Jumping

Trampoline Jumping For Kids

From traditional trampolines to foam pits, dodgeball courts, and even ninja warrior courses, there’s something for everyone. Not only will your kids have an absolute blast, but they’ll also improve their coordination, balance, and strength. 

So, why not give them a break from screens and treat them to an action-packed day at one of Sydney’s best trampoline parks? It’s the perfect way to create unforgettable memories and keep them active during the school holidays. Let the fun begin!

Ice Skating

Are you dreading those inevitable words from your kids during school holidays, “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do”? We know how challenging it can be to find the perfect activity to keep them entertained and active. 

Well, get ready to glide into excitement and create magical memories with your kids at the ice skating rinks in Sydney

Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, these frosty wonderlands offer an exhilarating experience that will have your little ones twirling, spinning, and laughing with joy. Say goodbye to boredom and hello to a cool adventure this school holiday!

Ice Skating

Go Ice Skating This Holiday!

Step onto the glistening ice of Sydney’s ice skating rinks, where your kids can embrace their inner grace and discover a whole new world of fun. 

From world-class Olympic-sized arenas to charming outdoor pop-up rinks, there’s a skating experience for every level of skill and interest. 

Beginners can take their first wobbly steps with the help of friendly instructors, while seasoned skaters can show off their dazzling moves. Not only will your kids improve their balance and coordination, but ice skating also provides an excellent cardiovascular workout. 

So, why not lace up those skates and immerse yourselves in the magical atmosphere of Sydney’s ice skating rinks? It’s the perfect activity to beat the holiday blues and create precious moments together. Let the ice-skating adventure begin!

Visit a Free Museum

Are you on the lookout for budget-friendly activities to keep your little ones entertained and engaged during the school holidays? We understand the struggle to find affordable options that offer both educational value and fun. 

Well, here’s a fantastic idea that won’t cost a lot – visiting free museums in Sydney! Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery, exploration, and imagination as you and your little ones dive into the captivating world of art, history, and science. It’s time to unlock the treasures of knowledge without spending a dime!

From the Museum of Contemporary Art, where contemporary masterpieces inspire young minds, to the Chau Chak Wing Museum, where ancient artefacts reveal stories of the past, there’s a world of wonder waiting to be explored. 

Let your kids’ curiosity run wild as they immerse themselves in the fascinating exhibitions and interactive presentations at the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Australian Museum

Australian National Maritime Museum
Source: Australian National Maritime Museum

Best of all, these museums offer a range of child-friendly activities, workshops, and events, ensuring that your little ones will have an unforgettable and enriching experience.

So, why not treat your kids to a day of discovery and imagination at one of Sydney’s free museums? It’s the perfect opportunity to spark their creativity, broaden their horizons, and foster a love for learning. Plus, the best part is that it won’t cost you a cent! 

Let’s make this school holiday a memorable one filled with knowledge, inspiration, and quality time with your family. Let the museum adventure begin!

Experience the Thrill of Indoor Skydiving

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to fly? Well, wonder no more because, at Sydney’s only indoor skydiving centre iFly, even kids as young as three can experience the thrill of defying gravity this holiday!

Picture this: you’re standing outside the airlock-style door, anticipating building as you prepare to enter the massive wind tunnel at iFly. With a leap of faith, you lean forward, and suddenly, the powerful wind catches you, simulating the exhilarating sensation of free-falling from a jaw-dropping 14,000 feet!

As you soar through the air, your instructor guides you with simple hand signals, which you quickly grasp. It’s incredible how swiftly you gain control over your movements, adjusting your speed and navigating the wind tunnel like a pro.


Indoor Skydiving
Source: iFly

And the best part? The indoor skydiving action takes place behind glass, making it a thrilling spectacle for parents to witness. Cameras capture every moment of your “dive,” allowing you to relive your most impressive poses and cheek-flapping excitement.

Not only is this experience a source of pure adrenaline, but it also holds a fascinating element. The facility is frequently used by the local military for training simulations, giving you a taste of the incredible skills and grace of advanced divers. 

It’s like watching majestic magpies in a captivating test tube.

As the adventure comes to an end, brace yourself for an exhilarating spin to the top of the tunnel and back down, guided by the expert grip of your instructor. Even with a hairnet and helmet, your heart will be racing!

Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a comb or hairbrush for some post-flight styling. After all, this high-flying adventure is all about creating unforgettable memories and experiencing the thrill of flight like never before. So, get ready to soar with your family this school holiday at Sydney’s indoor skydiving centre!

Sydney’s Ultimate Guide to Unforgettable School Holiday Adventures for Kids

In conclusion, Sydney offers a plethora of exciting and enriching activities to keep your kids entertained and engaged during the school holidays. 

From cultural events like the National Indigenous Art Fair to wildlife adventures at Sydney Zoo, and from thrilling experiences like indoor rock climbing and trampoline jumping to the magical world of ice skating, there is something for every child’s interest and energy level.

These activities not only provide entertainment but also valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and family bonding. Whether it’s exploring diverse cultures, developing physical skills, or nurturing a love for art and knowledge, Sydney’s school holiday activities offer a well-rounded experience.

Moreover, many of these activities can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors, ensuring that the unpredictable weather doesn’t dampen the holiday spirit. Sydney’s best indoor play centres and outdoor playgrounds provide endless fun, with an array of attractions to suit every child’s preferences and age group.

So, why not make this school holiday a truly memorable one for your kids? Dive into the vibrant cityscape of Sydney, create precious memories together, and let your children’s imagination soar. 

Whether they’re immersing themselves in Indigenous culture, discovering the wonders of wildlife, conquering new heights, bouncing with joy, gliding on ice, exploring museums, or experiencing the thrill of indoor skydiving, Sydney has it all.

10 Tips to Select the Best School Holiday Activities to do With Kids

School holidays are a wonderful opportunity for families to spend quality time together, explore new experiences, and create lasting memories. With an abundance of activities available, choosing the perfect ones to enjoy with your children can sometimes be overwhelming.

To make the most of your time in Sydney, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential tips to help you select the best school holiday activities. It will not only entertain your kids but also foster their learning and personal growth.

So, let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to planning an unforgettable holiday experience that the whole family will cherish.

1. Consider Your Child’s Interests

Taking your child’s interests into account when selecting school holiday activities is essential for ensuring their enjoyment and engagement.

By tailoring the activities to their hobbies and passions, you not only spark their curiosity but also create an environment where they can thrive and learn. Whether your child is passionate about art, nature, sports, or science, Sydney offers a wide range of attractions and events that cater to all interests.

2. Set a Budget

Before selecting activities, establish a budget for the holiday period. This will help you narrow down options and ensure you can enjoy a variety of experiences without breaking the bank.

3. Research Local Events

Keep an eye out for special events, festivals, and workshops happening in Sydney during the school holidays. Many of these events are free or low-cost and can provide unique experiences for the whole family.

4. Involve Your Children in The Decision-Making Process

Involving your children in the decision-making process when selecting school holiday activities is a great way to ensure their enthusiasm and engagement.

By including them in the planning stage, you empower them to express their interests and preferences. As a result, they’ll get a more personalised and satisfying experience.

Furthermore, this collaborative approach encourages open communication and strengthens family bonds. This is because it demonstrates that their opinions are valued and respected.

5. Balance Indoor and Outdoor Activities

Sydney offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor attractions. Mix up your holiday plans by including both, so you can enjoy the beautiful weather and have a backup plan in case of rain.

6. Prioritise Educational Experiences

Choose activities that are both entertaining and educational. This could include museums, zoos, or interactive workshops that allow children to learn new skills and expand their knowledge.

7. Look for Group Discounts

Many attractions offer discounted rates for families or groups. Make the most of these deals by planning outings with friends or other families.

8. Consider the Age of Your Children

Sydney offers a plethora of options suitable for various age groups, from interactive exhibits for young children to more complex workshops and events for older kids.

Always remember that by considering your child’s age, you create a holiday experience that is both entertaining and beneficial to their personal growth.

By choosing activities that cater to your child’s developmental stage and abilities, you minimise the risk of boredom or frustration and promote an engaging, enjoyable environment.

9. Plan Ahead

Planning beforehand is crucial when selecting the best school holiday activities to do with kids. By researching and organising your itinerary in advance, you can secure spots in popular attractions, take advantage of early bird discounts, and ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience.

Additionally, planning ahead allows you to create a balanced schedule that caters to your children’s interests, ensuring a variety of engaging experiences throughout the holidays.

10. Create a Flexible Schedule

While planning is important, remember to be flexible. Leave room in your schedule for spontaneous adventures or relaxation time. This will help keep the holidays enjoyable and stress-free for both you and your children.

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