Summer Series: School Holiday Activities with the ellaslist What❜s On Sydney Podcast

As we head into the silly season, we're bringing you the best of Christmas and summer holiday preparation. 

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 school holiday activities to keep the kids occupied all summer long.

Here’s a recap:

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

Top Picks for School Holiday Activities

Hive Festival at Art Gallery of NSW

Head to the Art Gallery of NSW for Hive Festival this summer; a dedicated festival for kids and families that's full to the brim with kid-approved activities. This FREE festival is the perfect opportunity to visit one of Sydney's favourite galleries where art-making, performances, and the magic of storytelling collide. The main attraction of this year's Hive Festival is Sydney-based artists Claire Healy and Sean Cordeiro's Flights of Fancy project which invites all viewers to join in the magic of kites, flight, and daydreaming.

Sydney Zoo Christmas Spectacular

The whole family will love the Sydney Zoo Christmas Spectacular. Enjoy a Christmas Show with Santa and the elves will be live on stage, sing along to classic carols and learn about the amazing animals who call Sydney Zoo home. You can also capture special moments at the Santa Photo Zone, where you can meet Santa in person, plus create something special at the Craft Zone, where you can decorate your own Christmas bauble and write a letter to Santa.

School Holidays at Museums of History NSW

Looking for educational and screen-free fun these school holidays? Museums of History NSW offers fantastic programs at Elizabeth Farm and Vaucluse House that are perfect for a digital detox. At Elizabeth Farm, kids can join History Kids – Explore the House, while at Vaucluse House, they’ll dive into History Kids – Explore Vaucluse House. These engaging programs bring history to life with hands-on activities like dressing up as a servant and exploring historic homes.

Marrickville Metro

Head to Marrickville Metro for some festive fun this December! When you book a Marrickville Metro Santa Photo Package from now until 15 December, you'll receive a bonus $25 restaurant voucher to spend at participating venues within Marrickville Metro. 

Australian National Maritime Museum

Summer holidays at the Australian National Maritime Museum bring the waterfront and galleries alive with play, discovery and fun for kids of all ages. The creative-packed summer program includes new exhibitions, experiences, and performances with all your favourite school holiday activities. Explore the newest exhibitions including James Cameron – Challenging the Deep, Ocean Photographer of the Year and Ultimate Depth – A Journey to the Bottom of the Sea alongside a diverse range of activities for every age and interest.

Sydney Opera House

Catch a show this summer at the beautiful Sydney Opera House. Get ready to follow the adventures of Grug as he explores the world around him in Grug and the Rainbow. Meet Josephine the kangaroo who just loves to dance in Josephine Wants to Dance.

The London International Animation Festival is transforming The Playhouse into a cinema for families to enjoy the best of independent animation from across the globe, including stop-motion, claymation, 2D, and 3D CGI. Plus, Dr Chris and Dr Xand are returning to the stage for their most explosive adventure yet in Operation Ouch! Live.

Cockatoo Island

Enjoy family tours throughout December and January at Cockatoo Island, perfect for families and curious minds. You can explore the island's layered history with the Island Highlights Tour, uncover 134 years of maritime history on the Historic Dockyard Tour or delve into the island's turbulent penal history with the Convict Prison Tour. Plus, there are heritage steam crane demonstrations from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm in December. 

Taronga Zoo Amphibian and Reptile Experience

Enter the dragon's den and get up close to curious creatures that jump, slither, and crawl at Taronga Zoo's NEW Amphibian and Reptile experience, ARC. This brand-new experience will take you on a journey through six immersive zones, transporting you from the frosty alpines to the scorching desert and to many other habitats in between.

Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru Exhibition 

Don't miss the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru exhibition at the Australian Museum. Step into a world of over 130 ancient treasures, including stunning jewellery, royal tomb artefacts, and one of the most impressive gold collections to ever tour the globe. These remarkable pieces showcase ancient Peru's artistic brilliance and cultural richness, offering a deep dive into their daily lives, spiritual beliefs, and extraordinary achievements.

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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