Explore Tasmania’s best family-friendly winter school holiday events for 2025—from magical light shows and snowy Christmas-in-July fun to singing around bonfires, planetarium adventures, art, dance, and more.

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🎤 Festival of Voices – The Big Sing

A magical winter music event and part of the 20th‑anniversary Festival of Voices, The Big Sing brings Hobart’s community together in a roaring outdoor sing‑along around a bonfire. It’s a free, family‑friendly celebration of song—whether you're a seasoned singer or a first-timer, all voices are welcome!

Location: Castray Esplanade / Princess Wharf 1, Hobart TAS
Date & Time: 27 June 2025 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Ticket Information: Free entry, no booking required

Highlights:

• • Bonfire sing‑along featuring local and interstate music leaders.
  • All‑ages event—community performers, families, choir fans.
    
  • Festival launch—embraces Tasmanian culture with a diverse songlist.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive by 4:45 PM to grab a spot around the fire pit.
  • Accessible location with nearby parking on Castray Esplanade and Salamanca Place.
    
  • Bring chairs or picnic rugs; seating is limited.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Dress warmly—it gets chilly by the water.
  • Follow lead singers and join along; those circle-mic moments are epic.
    
  • Stick around for post-event mingling, or jump into other Festival happenings nearby.

Don’t miss this heart-warming, voice-filled kickoff to Hobart’s winter festival—it’s all about singing together, community joy, and warming voices (and hearts) by the fire!

🎟️ More info

🌌 Launceston Planetarium Shows

Dive into the cosmos under an 8 m domed sky every week at the museum’s planetarium—one of the rare venues in Australia open regularly for public shows. Featuring a Zeiss ZKP3 projector and full-dome digital system, these immersive screenings transport you through space, with a live Tasmanian night-sky tour to follow.

Location: Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk, Launceston
Date & Time: Open Tuesday – Sunday (and Mondays during school holidays). Closed public holidays.

Ticket Information: Children: AUD 6, Adults: AUD 8

Highlights:

• • Cinematic dome screenings with stunning visuals and narrations like "Birth of Planet Earth", "We Are Guardians" & more.
  • Zeiss star-projection + full-dome digital system + live Tas sky talk.
    
  • Educational yet entertaining—WAO for budding astronomers & families alike.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive by 15 min before showtime—tickets collected at Inveresk front desk.
  • Museum is free to enter; planetarium has separate ticket prices.
    
  • Parking at Inveresk Carpark (paid); free shuttle bus stops nearby; venue is wheelchair accessible with lifts & facilities.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Book online via Eventbrite to secure your preferred session.
  • Great wet-weather or out-of-school outing—perfect for curious minds.
    
  • Shows change regularly—check the lineup for your visit day.

Don’t miss this stellar, immersive cosmic journey—it’s all about gazing stars, deeper space, and Tasmanian skies under one magnificent dome!

🎟️ Grab tickets here

🎨 Burnie School Holiday Activities

A full day of fun, learning, and exploration arranged by community groups and Council—tailored for kids and teens of all ages during the July school holidays. Expect a mix of indoor workshops, outdoor play, arts, sports, nature adventures, and educational experiences.

Location: Various Burnie venues including Burnie Arts Centre, Burnie Library, community hubs, parks, sports facilities, and outdoor reserves around the Burnie region.
Date & Time: Monday, 7 July 2025 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Ticket Information: Many activities are free, brought to you by Burnie City Council and community partners.

Highlights:

• • Creative workshops: sketching classes, crafts, interactive arts at Burnie Arts Centre.
  • Sport and outdoor adventures: disc golf, beach walks, pool sessions, and boardwalk wildlife spotting at Cooee and West Beach.
    
  • Library programs: reading, storytelling, and Indigenous cultural sessions at Burnie Library.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Check the Burnie City Council “What’s On” page or Burnie Arts Centre for daily program details, booking requirements, and age ranges.
  • Venues are spread across Burnie—plan travel accordingly; many are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
    
  • Bring sun-smart gear for outdoor activities and a water bottle; indoor workshops may ask for snacks or small materials.

Insider Tips:

• • Arrive early at popular workshops like sketching or crafts—they often sell out.
  • Mix indoor and outdoor options—if one fills, try a library or park event.
    
  • Keep an eye on Burnie Arts Centre’s event listings for updates, especially for July 7 programs.

Don’t miss this day of community-powered holiday fun—it’s all about creativity, exploration, play, and making lasting memories right here in Burnie!

🎟️ More info

📚 Kingston Library School Holiday Program

A creative and educational afternoon tailored for kids aged 6–11, featuring hands-on crafting, building challenges, and playful tech exploration. Spark curiosity and imagination in a welcoming community library setting.

Location: Kingston Library, 11 Hutchins Street, Kingston, TAS
Date & Time: 9 July 2025 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Ticket Information: Free

Highlights:

• • Build‑Make‑Create STEAM activities using everyday materials and simple technology.
  • Encourage design thinking, problem-solving, and creative play.
    
  • Friendly library facilitators on hand to guide the session.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive a few minutes early to pick up your spot.
  • Limited parking onsite (2-hour limit); additional parking at Channel Court.
    
  • Fully wheelchair/pram accessible with level access and automatic doors.
    

Insider Tips:

• • No bookings needed unless online RSVP is requested—drop in early to secure a place.
  • Ideal for curious young minds keen to tinker and invent.
    
  • Combine with a visit to Rock & Rhyme or Storytime sessions earlier in the week.

Don’t miss this playful afternoon at Kingston Library—a perfect blend of crafting, building, and imagination during the school holidays!

🎟️ Grab tickets here

🍏 Willie Smith's Mid-Winter Festival Series

Celebrate this winter at the apple orchard with the family fun evening to conclude our Mid-Winter series. The night will include a special Wassail, local choirs and the Stranded Wailers to ensure the vocal cords stay warm during the evening. The lawns at The Apple Shed will be set-up for the children with a variety of entertainment, including a sing-along with the Stranded Wailers, Roaming Trees Storytelling, an Apple Pie eating contest, face painting, plus novel apple-themed games. 

Location: Willie Smith’s Apple Shed, Huon Valley, TAS
Date & Time: 26 July 2025 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Information: $35 adult ticket + $15 children ticket (aged 4-16 years) 

Highlights:

• • Age‑old wassail ceremony—wake the apple trees with song and firelight.
  • Fire‑lit atmosphere, Morris dancing, effigy burn (Big Willie), roaming storytellers and folk‑funk music
    
  • Apple‑pie‑eating contest—don’t miss this fun finale!
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive ~15 minutes early to grab parking or shuttle access via Apple Shed.
  • Dress warmly—bring layers, gloves, and sturdy shoes for outdoor spaces.
    
  • Accessible venue amenities are available—check details with organisers.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Tickets sell fast—lock in early to join the festivities.
  • Transport option is popular—book shuttle spots if you prefer not to drive.
    
  • Bring a picnic rug or camping chair for comfort

Don’t miss this magical winter finale—it's all about firelight enchantment, joyous wassailing, community ritual, and whimsical fun under the starry Huon Valley sky!

🎟️ More info

🎄 Christmas in July Extravaganza

Experience all the festive fun of Christmas—twinkling lights, hearty food, carols, crafts, and maybe even snow—right in the middle of winter. Perfect for families who can’t get enough of holiday cheer (and cosy vibes)! 

Location: Ben Lomond Base, 3420 Blessington Road, Upper Blessington, TAS
Date & Time: Saturday, 12 July 2025, from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Highlights:

• • Real snow play: tobogganing, snowball fights, snowman building before 3 pm.
  • Live music & fire performances: local DJs, musicians, fire spinners, and Christmas carols by the fire pits.
    
  • Festive workshops:
    
    • Gingerbread house creation with Sabina & Brad (3:15–4:15 pm)
    • Wreath-making with Genna from Ivy & Rose (5:15–6:15 pm)
    • Whisky‑tasting masterclass with Adam’s Distillery (6:45–7:45 pm)

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive early (by 8 am) to enjoy snow-based fun before the festival starts at 3 pm.
  • Dress warmly and bring layers—cold alpine weather is expected.
    
  • Access via self-drive; free on-site parking; coach shuttle available from Launceston.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Secure tickets early—last year sold out well before July 12.
  • Pre-book workshops (gingerbread, wreath-making, whisky tasting) to avoid disappointment.
    
  • Snow gear rental available on-site for toboggan packing.

Don’t miss this heartwarming Tasmania winter wonderland—Christmas in July Extravaganza at Ben Lomond Base brings together real snow, Christmas joy, artisan workshops, warming drinks, tunes, and alpine family fun under a starry winter sky! ❄️

🎟️ Book here

🖤💛❤️ NAIDOC Week 2025 at QVMAG

QVMAG honours NAIDOC Week with a rich program of family-friendly activities, from Indigenous art and storytelling to workshops and performances. A beautiful way for kids to connect with Aboriginal culture and creativity. 

Location: Museum at Inveresk, QVMAG, 2 Invermay Road, Inveresk (Launceston), TAS
Date & Time: Sunday 6 – Sunday 13 July 2025

Ticket Information:  All events are free, drop-in or book for workshops.
Highlights:

• • Morning Tea & Community Cloak Reveal: join the unveiling of a growing possum skin cloak created from community contributions and enjoy a free morning tea on 6 Jul.
  • Yarning & Making Workshops: weave bracelets, share stories, and connect in a relaxed setting across multiple days at Inveresk & Royal Park.
    
  • Art with Rod Gardner: watch a Tasmanian Aboriginal artist sketch using plein-air techniques, and interact with him during live sessions.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive early—particularly on Sun 6 Jul—to enjoy the breakfast-style morning tea and the unveiling ceremony.
  • Events most days finish at 3 pm—perfect timing to also explore museum exhibits like First Tasmanians, Planetarium shows, and the historic railway galleries.
    
  • Both sites fully accessible with parking, restrooms, and café nearby at Inveresk; Royal Park is also stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Check museum websites or Eventbrite to register for specific workshops like Yarning and Making or Rod Gardner sessions—spaces may fill.
  • Combine Inveresk and Royal Park visits for a complete cultural and natural heritage day.
    

Don’t miss this heartfelt celebration of First Nations culture at QVMAG’s Inveresk—community cohesion, artistry, storytelling, and reflection await during NAIDOC Week 2025. Join in for warmth, creativity, and connection across a full week of inspiring free events honoring the legacy and leadership of the next generation!

🎟️ Visit website

🎶 Emma Memma’s Dance Island Party

Sing, sign and groove along with Emma Memma in this interactive stage show filled with music, dance, and AUSLAN. It’s inclusive, energetic, and specially designed for preschoolers and early learners (and their grown-ups too!). 

Location: The Tramsheds Function Centre, 4 Invermay Rd, Launceston TAS
Date & Time: Saturday 19 July 2025, 10 am & 12:30 pm

Highlights:

• • A 45–60 minute live performance of Emma Memma’s new Dance Island Party show.
  • Inclusive with live Auslan interpretation—ideal for sensory and Deaf-accessible enjoyment.
    
  • Family favourites like “Coconut Tree” and “Beach Trolley” performed live, with interactive dance and singing fun.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Doors open 30 minutes before showtime; arrive early to choose Auslan-friendly seating.
  • Venue is wheelchair/pram-accessible, with nearby parking and public transport access.
    
  • Both morning and midday shows are ideal for preschoolers and early primary-age children.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Be sure to book the morning or midday session early—they tend to sell out fast.
  • If you need clear Auslan visibility, contact the box office ahead of time to reserve ideal seats.
    

Don’t miss Emma Memma’s Dance Island Party in Launceston—a colourful, upbeat, and inclusive concert adventure where families can dance, sing, sign, and connect. Two joyful shows await at The Tramsheds on July 19!

🎟️ Grab tickets here

⚓ Anchorage Festival

Anchorage brings Hobart’s maritime heart to life with boats, markets, music, and fun for the whole family. Explore waterfront adventures, creative workshops, and live entertainment across this vibrant, sea-loving festival. 

Location: Currie Lighthouse & Lens Room, Currie, King Island, TAS
Date & Time: Thursday 17 July – Saturday 19 July 2025

Ticket Information: Free to attend—just turn up and participate.

Highlights:

• • Sea‑ing Light: Alex Moss’s immersive projection mapped onto the Currie Lighthouse and Lens Room—interactive and crowd-responsive.
  • Weathering: Art exhibition by local creators reflecting on the island’s drought, resilience, humour, and community spirit.
    
  • Fathom: Underwater-themed audio-dance experience marking 150 years since the Cataraqui shipwreck.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Aim to arrive before dusk (~5 pm) to enjoy the evolving light and projections.
  • Access: travel to Currie via ferry or small aircraft; event is walkable around Currie town centre.
    
  • Wear warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring a torch for movement between installations.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Best viewed after dark—don’t miss the dramatic transformation of the lighthouse.
  • Bring a portable seat or blanket for comfort during bonfire storytelling.
    
  • Family-friendly but bring weather-appropriate gear—it can be windy and chilly.

Don’t miss the Anchorage Festival—a luminous, heartfelt celebration of King Island’s spirit, where art, light, music, and community weave together against the backdrop of winter’s embrace. Immerse yourself in this elemental island experience and ignite your inner light!

🎟️ More info

🌌 Lightwave Festival

Light up your winter nights with this immersive light and sound experience. Think glowing installations, illuminated art trails, and interactive zones that wow both kids and adults. It’s the ultimate after-dark family adventure.

Locations: Various venues on Turrakana (Tasman) Peninsula

• • Main precinct & Light Parade: Nubeena (1625 Main Rd)
  • Opening “Candela” at Port Arthur Historic Site
  • Family-friendly wind-down event at Hansen’s Pear Orchard, White Beach

Date & Time: Friday 11 – Sunday 13 July 2025

Ticket Information:  Free, all‑ages festival — open to the community
Highlights:

• • Saturday 12 July (5–11pm) in Nubeena: large-scale light installations, sound, and the mesmerising Light Parade where attendees create luminous trail costumes and lanterns.
  • Friday 11 July – Candela evening at Port Arthur: atmospheric long-table dinner, projection art, live music by Martine Holliday, Fflora, Shade, and interactive photo-media installations.
    
  • Sunday 13 July – Wind Down in the Orchard: relaxed daytime festival at Hansen’s Pear Orchard/White Beach with music (Celeste Evelyn, Molly O’Brien, Rivalu), food stalls, outdoor fires, and family art activities.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive by 5pm on Saturday to watch daylight fade and artworks illuminate.
  • Use the festival bus for Port Arthur–Nubeena connectivity ($11 one way).
    
  • Dress warmly in layers, bring torch and a portable seat for comfort during outdoor activities.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Create or join the Light Parade—participation makes for unforgettable photos and family bonding.
  • Sunday’s orchard event is mellow and ideal for young children—fires, snacks, and local music = cozy winter vibes.
    

Don’t miss Lightwave Festival 2025—a radiant winter retreat on the Tasman Peninsula. Across three unforgettable nights, immerse your family in light-shrouded art, music, community warmth, and creative celebration under starry skies.

🎟️ Visit website

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☀️ Quick Links

• Festival of Voices – The Big Sing
• Launceston Planetarium Shows
• Burnie School Holiday Activities
• Kingston Library School Holiday Program
• Willie Smith's Mid-Winter Festival Series
• Christmas in July Extravaganza
• NAIDOC Week 2025 at QVMAG
• Emma Memma’s Dance Island Party
• Anchorage Festival
• Lightwave Festival

💡 Pro Parent Tip: Bookmark this page, screenshot your faves, and get in early—these events sell out fast!

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