Spring at the MCA Australia

This spring, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) is the ultimate spot for creative family adventures during the school holidays. Whether your kiddos are budding Picassos or just love a splash of colour, there's something to ignite everyone's imagination. And the best part? It's FREE for families of all ages!

MCA's dedicated family space is where creativity and family fun collide. From blockbuster exhibitions (FREE for kids under 18!) to hands-on art-making and more, spring school holidays are the perfect time to visit.

Spring at the MCA Australia

The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) is the perfect spot to inspire little minds and big imaginations this season. With MCA Art Play, free activities for kids, world-class exhibitions, special family-friendly programs, and a stunning harbourside location, it’s a great way to spend a day together these school holidays.

MCA Art Play for Under 5s

If you’ve got toddlers or preschoolers, MCA Art Play is a must-do. These free, drop-in open-play sessions for children aged 0 to 5 are designed around the Reggio Emilia principles of creativity and curiosity. Kids are free to explore at their own pace, experiment with materials, and let their imaginations lead the way. Parents will love that on MCA Art Play days, accompanying adults receive 20% off General Admission tickets to current exhibitions. Entry is always free for MCA Members and children under 18.

Keep an eye out for the special outdoor MCA Art Play session on Tallawoladah Lawn, where little ones can get creative surrounded by the new Thomas J Price sculpture.

MCA Art Play is supported by Faber-Castell.

Cerith Wyn Evans .... in light of the visible

Families can experience the MCA’s major international exhibition, Cerith Wyn Evans .... in light of the visible before it closes on 19 October. This immersive exhibition combines light, sound and movement in ways that capture the imagination of both kids and adults. Enhance your visit with the free MCA app, which includes family-friendly conversation starters, an interactive screen space and music to deepen your connection with the artworks. Free for MCA Members and children under 18.

Stories Under the Fig Tree

Cosy up with a book at the MCA’s free drop-in reading nook, perfect for kids aged 0 to 10. Stories Under the Fig Tree is all about celebrating First Nations cultures through stories published by Magabala Books. With books written and illustrated by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors, it’s a beautiful way for families to learn about language and culture. Open until 10 October.

Same Like Yesterday: Virlkuthalypila and Other Stories from Our Country

Step inside this immersive video installation created by the women and children of the Adnyamathanha community, in collaboration with the SharingStories Foundation. Same Like Yesterday brings one of Australia’s oldest continuing cultures to life through storytelling, songs, vibrant illustrations and Dreamtime narratives. Suitable for all ages, it’s a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about cultural traditions in an engaging way.

Public Art Walks: MCA and Beyond

Want to see Sydney through an artist’s eyes? Join the Public Art Walks and behold outdoor installations that shape the city’s creative landscape. Families will be guided through highlights, including the MCA’s 2025 Neil Balnaves Tallawoladah Lawn Commission, before finishing up on the Loti Smorgon Sculpture Terrace with its spectacular harbour views.

Family Art Trail

Perfect for children aged 7 and up, the Family Art Trail is a hands-on activity that encourages families to enjoy the museum together. Collect your free activity sheet from the MCA front-of-house or MCA Café and follow the trail from the new outdoor artwork by Thomas J Price through to the galleries. With fun prompts and creative activities, it’s an interactive way to see the exhibitions through a child’s eyes. All materials are provided.

Complete Your Visit

With an array of inspired, artful gifts for young people, don't forget to drop into the MCA Store to find a treasure trove of quality toys, books, and more for budding creatives. Enjoy the MCA Cafe at Tallawoladah, located on the Ground Floor with scenic views of Sydney Harbour.

Where:    Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George St, The Rocks
When:     Monday 29 September to Friday 10 October 2025 | 10 am to 5 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Cost:       General admission - adults $20. FREE for under-18s and MCA Members.
                Most events and activities are free for under-18s; some events are ticketed.

For more information, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.

Main image by Joseph Mayers.

More Spring Events in Sydney

Pixar Putt is Back These School Holidays
Don't Miss Jurassic Zoo at the Australian Reptile Park
School Holiday Fun at the Australian National Maritime Museum

Have you signed up for our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!