Summer Series: Summer Fun and School Holiday Programs with the ellaslist What❜s On Sydney Podcast

As we head into the silly season, we're bringing you the best of Christmas preparation; we're talking fun-filled weekend events and some mega school holiday programs that the kids will love.

In the latest episode of the ellaslist What’s On Sydney Podcast, our mother-daughter Jodi and Daisy Byrne dive into a bumper line-up of all things school holidays.

Here’s a recap:

Summer Series: Summer Fun and School Holiday Programs with the ellaslist What's On Sydney Podcast

Exciting Events to Check Out This Weekend

Start your weekend with free family fun at Market City’s Christmas Candyland, where you can explore a festive wonderland. Don’t miss the City of Sydney Pools’ Summer Open Day on Saturday, offering free entry to five aquatic and leisure centres—perfect for a splash or a workout.

Experience the magic of Darling Harbour’s Rockin’ Christmas, marvel at the lights at Illuminate The Hills, and explore Sydney’s best streets decked out in stunning Christmas displays.

History buffs can dive into the fascinating Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru exhibit, stroll through fields of lavender, or even take a ride on a real-life fire engine.

Top Picks for School Holiday Programs

Jungle Float Water Park

Cool off at Clontarf or Balmoral Beach with Jungle Float, Australia’s only floating water park. Packed with trampolines, jumping platforms, a rope swing, and a waterslide, it’s a high-energy adventure perfect for confident swimmers. Lifeguards and free lifejackets are provided for safety.

Bounce Sydney Holiday Camps

Get active with Bounce Sydney’s Holiday Camps at Homebush. These 3-hour sessions are packed with trampoline fun and the chance to learn new tricks from expert staff. Camps run in January for $65 per day—perfect for dropping off the kids and taking a well-deserved break.

Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP)

Budding actors can explore their dramatic side with ATYP’s school holiday workshops. Tailored for kids from kindergarten to Year 12, these sessions boost confidence, foster creativity, and promise plenty of fun in a supportive environment.

City of Sydney Pools Summer Intensives

Dive into Sydney’s best pools this summer, including Cook & Phillip Park Pool, Gunyama, and Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, and check out their School Holiday Intensive Swim Schools. 

Manchester City Football School Holiday Clinics

Soccer enthusiasts in Years 3 to 8 can train like the pros at Waverley College with Manchester City Football Clinics. Open to all skill levels, these camps offer excellent coaching and a chance to shine on the pitch. Sessions run from December 10 to January 29.

Code Camp

Get creative with Code Camp, where kids can learn everything from coding their own games to creating YouTube videos. This summer, new Get Crafty Camps add extra sparkle with activities like bejeweling and bedazzling. Programs are available for ages 5-12 at various locations.

Speaking Schools Australasia

Help your kids find their voice with Speaking Schools Australasia. Their summer programs, running from December 18 to January 24, cater to children from kindergarten to Year 10. Classes are held at multiple locations, including Parramatta, North Sydney, and online.

Sydney Conservatorium of Music

Young music lovers can join the Kids at the Con Workshops at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Designed for ages 3-10, these sessions immerse children in singing, percussion, storytelling, and more, helping them explore the exciting world of music.

Sydney Youth Orchestra (SYO)

For budding musicians, SYO’s Holiday Programs at Santa Sabina in Strathfield are a must. With options for beginners and experienced players aged 5-18, kids will refine their skills through tutorials, rehearsals, and ensemble practice. Programs conclude with a celebratory concert at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

More Ideas for Summer Fun

Check out even more activities and programs on the ellaslist website. Whether it’s a trampoline park, drama workshop, or soccer clinic, there’s something for every interest this summer.

For the latest events, school holiday inspiration, and weekend ideas, visit ellaslist and make this summer unforgettable for the whole family!

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