Endless Family Fun: Your Ultimate Guide to 2026’s Must-Do Events and Activities
The magic of shared experiences creates memories that last a lifetime, and 2026 is set to be an absolute cracker for family adventures across Australia. From thrilling live shows to hands-on creative camps and unique outdoor explorations, there’s an abundance of options to keep everyone entertained. Get ready to plan an unforgettable year packed with joy, laughter, and discovery.
Get Active with Your Favourite Cartoon Characters
Looney Tunes Sports Camps
Keeping the kids engaged and active during the school holidays just got a whole lot more fun. Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, in partnership with Sport Star Academy, is bringing the beloved Looney Tunes characters to the sports field with a series of themed holiday camps.
Designed for children aged 4 to 12, these camps transform traditional sports clinics into engaging, character-driven experiences. Imagine “Hop Like Bugs Bunny” drills or “Run Like Road Runner” races! The program incorporates story-led activities that encourage participation and a love for sport. Beyond the fun and games, every young participant will receive exclusive co-branded merchandise to commemorate their adventure.
Sport Star Academy is renowned for its expertise and expansive reach, with a proven track record of engaging approximately 15,000 children annually across over 390 locations nationwide. Families can register their interest now to secure a spot for their budding athletes.
Make a Splash at URBNSURF
Catch a Wave, Any Skill Level
For those dreaming of catching a wave, URBNSURF offers the perfect solution. Their state-of-the-art surf parks provide consistent, rolling white-water waves ideal for swimming, surfing, or even boogie boarding in a safe and controlled environment.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner, URBNSURF caters to all abilities. Expert coaches are on hand to guide newcomers, ensuring a fun and encouraging introduction to the sport. The parks are strategically located to be easily accessible:
- Sydney: Situated in Sydney Olympic Park, it’s a convenient 25-minute drive from the CBD and 20 minutes from the airport.
- Melbourne: Located in Tullamarine, just a 5-minute drive from the airport and 20 minutes from the CBD.
With perfect waves on offer year-round, URBNSURF promises an exciting aquatic adventure for the whole family.
Spark Creativity and Innovation with Code Camp
Where Technology Meets Play
Code Camp is revolutionising school holidays and after-school hours with its award-winning programs that blend coding, technology, and hands-on crafts. These camps are designed to ignite children’s imaginations, offering a diverse range of activities to suit every interest.
Tech Camps (Ages 5–13):
* For the Younger Ones (Ages 5–7): Explore foundational concepts with programs like Minecraft Minis, Little Coders, and Curious Minds.
* For the Older Explorers (Ages 7–13): Dive deeper into subjects such as Spark Coding, Ignite Intermediate, Minecraft Engineers/Masters, Robotics, Roblox, Drones, AI, 3D Coding, and Web Builders.
Creative Camps (Ages 5–13):
* Beyond coding, kids can unleash their artistic side through Animation Minis, Bejewel & Bedazzle, Graphic Novels, Animation, Crochet & Macramé, DJ Camp, Design, YouTube Creators, and Build a Mini House.
Code Camp has inspired over 250,000 children, establishing itself as Australia’s premier holiday program. It provides a safe and stimulating environment where kids can acquire new skills, forge friendships, and let their creativity soar.
A New Family Haven in Moama: Wildergreen
Eat, Play, Explore by the Murray River
Just a short drive from Melbourne, Wildergreen is a vibrant new destination in Moama that promises a delightful experience for families. This expansive precinct is designed for eating, playing, and exploring, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Murray River.
The culinary heart of Wildergreen is Embr, a restaurant serving up delicious wood-fired pizzas and fresh, seasonal dishes. While parents savour their meals, children can head to Treehouse, a captivating indoor play space offering a wealth of sensory fun and creative activities. For parents dining at Embr, supervised play is available for children aged 5 and above, with younger ones welcome when accompanied by an adult.
Outside, The Playgrounds provide ample space for children to roam, with leafy paths, secret hideouts, and open lawns perfect for grand adventures. Wildergreen is set to open its doors on November 20th, poised to become a must-visit family hotspot in Moama.
Step Back in Time with Titanic: A Voyage Through Time
Immersive VR Experience in Melbourne
Melbourne is offering a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur and tragedy of the Titanic like never before. “Titanic: A Voyage Through Time” is a 45-minute virtual reality adventure that transports visitors to the iconic ship.
The experience begins with a dive to the wreck site, offering a poignant glimpse into its resting place. Following this, you’ll journey back to 1912 to explore the ship as a passenger. Wander the opulent Grand Staircase, encounter historical figures, and explore meticulously recreated iconic spaces. The immersive VR technology allows for free movement and interaction with your surroundings, making it a truly captivating experience for families, history enthusiasts, and Titanic aficionados alike.
- Location: Level 1, 206 Bourke St, Melbourne, Vic
- Recommended Age: 8+
- Cost: From $35
- Availability: Choose your preferred date and time when booking.
Encounter Wildlife at Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Dubbo’s Wild Encounters
A scenic drive from Sydney, Canberra, or Newcastle will lead you to the renowned Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, a sanctuary for an incredible array of animals from across the globe.
The zoo is home to majestic creatures such as cheetahs, rhinos, and zebras, as well as magnificent Sumatran tigers, gentle Asian elephants, and a diverse collection of iconic Australian wildlife. To enhance your visit, download the Taronga Western Plains Zoo app, which provides an interactive map, keeper talk schedules, and feeding times, helping you maximise your day.
- Opening Hours: Open 365 days a year.
- 8:30 am – 4:00 pm: Savannah Visitor Plaza
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm: Zoo Circuit
- Planning Your Visit: Purchase tickets online in advance for potential discounts of up to 20%.
Explore Sydney Harbour by Electric Boat with GoBoat
A Unique Maritime Adventure
For a truly unique school holiday experience, families can take to the helm of their own electric picnic boat and explore Sydney’s picturesque Middle Harbour. GoBoat has launched from D’Albora Marina at The Spit, Mosman, offering an accessible and enjoyable way to experience the city’s waterways.
Key features of the GoBoat experience include:
- No Boat Licence Required: Anyone can drive!
- Dog-Friendly: Bring your furry friends along for the ride.
- Family-Friendly: Boats can accommodate up to 8 people, including children and pets.
- Safety First: All necessary safety equipment is provided.
Since its inception in Canberra in 2017, GoBoat has hosted over 350,000 guests. Prices start from just $19 per person, making it an affordable and memorable way for everyone to enjoy Sydney’s stunning harbour.
Discover the Wonders at Taronga Zoo Sydney
A Day of Wildlife and Discovery
Taronga Zoo Sydney offers a captivating experience for all ages, with daily keeper talks, an entertaining seal show, and the chance to meet adorable baby animals. These attractions are included with every zoo ticket or annual pass.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.
- Membership: Consider upgrading to a Zoo Friends membership for year-round access and endless wildlife fun.
- Tickets: Save up to 20% by purchasing tickets online.
Immerse Yourself in the World of Bluey’s World
A Heeler Family Adventure
Queensland’s Northshore Pavilion in Hamilton is the new home for “Bluey’s World,” an immersive attraction brought to life by BBC Studios, HVK Productions, and support from the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council. This is a dream come true for fans of the beloved Blue Heeler.
Step into the iconic world of Bluey and Bingo as you wander through life-size sets directly inspired by the show’s most memorable episodes. Explore Bluey and Bingo’s bedroom, relax in the Heeler family’s living room and kitchen, and marvel at the perfectly recreated details. The outdoor area brings Bluey’s backyard to life under a magnificent Poinciana tree. After your adventure, unwind at the café, browse exclusive Bluey merchandise, or let the kids loose in the playground.
- Cost: Tickets start from $49.90.
Get Your Hands Dirty at Dig IT!
Queensland’s Premier Mini-Excavator Park
Located on Tamborine Mountain, just an hour from the Gold Coast and Brisbane, Dig IT! offers a unique and exhilarating construction-themed experience. Don your hard hat and high-vis gear for what promises to be “the best day ever” at Australia’s first mini-excavator park.
Dig IT! provides the opportunity to operate real excavator machinery in a safe and controlled environment. It’s an adventure that appeals to both young and old, offering a thrilling hands-on experience.
- Location: Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mountain Road, Tamborine Mountain, Scenic Rim, Queensland.
- Opening Hours: Open every weekend and during school holidays.
- Pricing: Child or Adult admission is $59 for a 2-hour session. Concession is available for $55.
