Winter school holidays are almost here, and keeping children and teens busy, active and entertained can be a full-time job. Luckily, Sydney has plenty on offer this July, from creative workshops and circus shows to swimming lessons, film festivals and teen-friendly adventures.
For most NSW students, school holidays run from Tuesday 7 July to Friday 17 July, making it the perfect time to book in a few fun activities and experiences.
Here are some great ideas for kids of all ages.
For Primary School-Aged Children
Children’s International Film Festival
Take the kids on a global big-screen adventure at the Children’s International Film Festival, featuring 30 family-friendly films from around the world. The program is designed to spark imagination, curiosity and a love of storytelling, making it a great winter holiday outing for young movie lovers.
Pay No Attention
Full of energy, laughs and impressive tricks, Pay No Attention is a fast-paced circus performance created by young artists. Expect a playful mix of comedy, acrobatics and illusion in a dazzling show that will keep kids entertained from start to finish.
Swimming Intensives at Cook + Phillip Park Pool
The school holidays are a great time to build water confidence, and swimming intensives at Cook + Phillip Park Pool are designed to help children fast-track their skills. Held in a heated indoor pool, the daily lessons cater to a range of levels and are ideal for keeping kids active during winter.
Monoprint for Kids
Creative kids aged 9 to 13 years can try their hand at printmaking in this colourful Monoprint for Kids workshop. Children will learn simple monoprint techniques, experiment with texture and create one-of-a-kind artworks to take home.
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
Step into a world of whimsy with Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, a Wonderland-inspired circus cabaret filled with acrobatics, music and interactive fun. Playful, imaginative and full of surprises, it is a great option for families looking for something a little magical these school holidays.
Ceramics Wheel Throwing for Kids
Children aged 9 to 12 years can get hands-on with clay in this ceramics wheel-throwing workshop. Guided by an expert tutor, kids will learn the basics of using a pottery wheel and shape their own clay creations in a fun and supportive setting.
For High School Students
Youth in the City
Designed for teens aged 13 to 18 years, Youth in the City offers a varied school holiday program with activities such as movies, rock climbing, ice skating and wildlife encounters. It is a great way for teenagers to try something new, get out of the house and connect with others during the break.
SongLab Songwriting Workshop
Budding musicians and young creatives can take part in the SongLab Songwriting Workshop, where they will create and record an original track. The hands-on studio session introduces participants to songwriting, melody and music production in a fun and practical environment.
Junk Journals
For teens aged 13 to 17 years, the Junk Journals workshop is all about turning everyday materials into personal keepsakes. With a focus on storytelling and self-expression, it offers a relaxed and creative way for young people to make something unique.
The Identity Lab
In The Identity Lab, teens can explore identity through collage, portrait-making and layered artworks. This creative workshop encourages self-expression while introducing participants to bold visual techniques and new ways of thinking about portraiture.
Plan a School Holiday Adventure
Whether your child loves performing arts, making things, being active or trying something completely new, Sydney has plenty to keep them entertained this winter. From film and circus to swimming, ceramics and teen workshops, these school holidays are a great chance to get creative, stay active and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
More information on the City of Sydney website
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