Stretched budgets don’t have to mean boring school holidays! We’ve done the legwork and found lots of fun and FREE events to keep kids and their mums entertained over the break.
🌳 Outdoor & Nature Fun
The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden: A great spot for a relaxed picnic and play in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Entry is free and perfect for kids to run around and explore nature. Find out more here.
Risk Playground: Let the kids loose at the Risk Playground on the corner of Southbank Boulevard and Kavanagh Street in Southbank. The nature inspired play equipment includes climbable bluestone boulders, fake pavers, and a slide that gives the illusion of being held down by a rope. Although appearing risky, the playground is actually very safe.
Park & Nature Walks Across Victoria: Victoria’s parks offer free nature activities during holidays, including ranger‑led Junior Ranger programs (nature walks, wildlife spotting and interactive tasks). Spots often fill fast, so bookings are recommended.
🖼️ Free Cultural & Museum Activities
ACMI & NGV Exhibitions – Many exhibitions and interactive displays are free for families visiting over the holidays. Explore art, film, games and creative spaces designed for kids.
Free Museum Entry for Kids: Many museum venues in Melbourne offer free entry for children under 16 during school holiday periods, including Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks, and the Immigration Museum.
🎉 Easter & Community Events
Kids Day Out Festival: The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will be transformed into a free fun filled family festival, with activities ranging from carnival rides, the popular Teddy Bear Hospital and art and crafts, to the Woolworths Festival Stage, classic cars show, and the brand new the Kids Day Out games supported by Bunnings. With all abilities options, chill out rooms and yummy food and drinks, it’s the perfect way to spend your Good Friday!
Queen Victoria Market Easter Fun: Free Easter holiday experiences, including Kids Passport activities, gardening activities, and Easter Bunny visits in early April (booking required for some activities).
📚 Local Libraries & Community Programs
Local Library Holiday Programs: Most public libraries across Victoria run free school‑holiday activities — from craft sessions to book adventures and scavenger hunts. Check your local library’s events calendar.
🧺 Chill & Play Spots
Fed Square: Open public plaza with street performances, occasional free workshops and space to let the kids explore.
Abbotsford Convent: Beautiful heritage site with open lawns and occasional free events (ideal for picnics, art trails and relaxed family days out).
Tips to save time and money
- Check local council websites for free Easter egg hunts and community events.
- Pack snacks and water for outdoor days to avoid extra costs.
- Check the websites for free holiday workshops or drop‑in craft sessions at local shopping centres and community hubs scheduled over Easter.
0 Comments