🎉 Victoria’s Winter School Holiday Guide 2025: Family-Friendly Fun & Events
From dazzling lights to circus-themed workshops and kid-approved film fests, Victoria’s got your winter school holiday plans sorted. Check out the best family-friendly events in Melbourne this July—fun, creativity, and cosy vibes included.
🎬 Children’s International Film Festival
Lights, camera, popcorn! The CHIFF lineup is packed with international films made just for kids—animated gems, feel-good tales, and family-friendly adventures you won’t find on streaming. A cosy day out that’s screen time you’ll actually love.
Locations:
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- Classic Cinemas, 9 Gordon St, Elsternwick
- Lido Cinemas, 675 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn
- Cameo Cinemas, 1628 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave
Dates & Times: Until 20 July 2025
Highlights:
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- World-class premieres: 19 Australian-first features and a variety of shorts.
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Retro hits: 40th anniversary screenings of Explorers and Pee‑wee’s Big Adventure.
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Interactive activities: Foyer fun like colouring competitions, open-mic jokes, craft tables, and “Mexican art & crafts” tied to screenings.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Check showtimes and book via the CHIFF website or cinema websites.
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Arrive ~15 minutes early to choose seats and enjoy foyer activities.
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Plan for any age-appropriate showing—times range from morning to evening.
Insider Tips:
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- Family Fun Day (Elio): includes free popcorn (Sun 22 June at 12:30 pm across all venues).
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Pajama Day (Fri 11 July): come in PJ’s for a free treat courtesy of Funday Sweets.
Don’t miss this cozy winter wonderland on the big screen—heartfelt international stories, nostalgic classics, themed dress-ups, crafts, laughs, and popcorn-filled memories for all ages under Melbourne’s chilly skies!
🧱 Little Builders
Little Builders is Melbourne’s largest indoor sandbox experience, designed to spark creativity through hands-on play. Kids can dig, build, and explore with ride-on excavators, buckets, shovels, molds, and themed play zones like castle-building and road-making—all within a 50 m² sandbox containing over 25 tonnes of clean sand.
Location: The District Docklands, Melbourne
Dates & Times: 5 July – 31 August 2025
Ticket Information: $18.50
Highlights:
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- Huge sandbox—50 m², 25+ tonnes of sanitized sand.
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100+ play toys: ride-on diggers, molds, buckets, shovels.
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Hands-on learning: supports motor skills, coordination, problem-solving.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Ideal during school holidays (Victoria’s winter break runs 5–20 July).
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Arrive earlier to avoid lines, especially around 10 AM opening.
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Combine with a visit to nearby attractions in Docklands.
Insider Tips:
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- Weekends get busy—book tickets online early.
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Great for toddlers and preschoolers—infants enter free.
Don’t miss this interactive, sensory-rich sandbox adventure—it’s all about digging, building, creating, and learning in a clean, imaginative play space!
🎻 Jams for Juniors: Polovtsian Dances
A lively 30-minute musical workshop designed for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers. Together, you'll explore and play with themes from Borodin’s “Polovtsian Dances”, guided by presenter Karen Kyriakou and the MSO Jams Ensemble.
Location: Iwaki Auditorium, ABC Southbank Centre
Dates & Times: 5 July 2025 | 10AM
Ticket Information: $19
Highlights:
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- Interactive format: kids are encouraged to join in with instruments, clapping, and movement
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Auslan Tuesday session offers inclusive access.
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Includes free MSO colouring activity sheets themed around the orchestra instruments.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Arrive ~15 minutes early; doors open shortly before the session.
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After the session, you can relax on nearby lawns or explore the Southbank Boulevard Play Space.
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Conveniently located near Melbourne’s arts precinct, cafes, and Southbank light rail.
Insider Tips:
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- Book early—the morning sessions sold out, and tickets run out fast.
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Every attendee needs a ticket—even babies—so purchase extras as needed before tickets sell out.
Don’t miss this delightful musical introduction for little ones—play, listen, and dance through Borodin’s timeless music in a cosy, inclusive setting.
🌟 Annie the Musical
The heartwarming and award-winning Broadway musical Annie returns to Melbourne! The classic tale of the spirited orphan with fiery red curls, chronicling her journey from hardship to a better life with Daddy Warbucks during the Great Depression.
Location: Princess Theatre, Melbourne
Dates & Times: 8 July – 31 August 2025
Ticket Information: From AUD 70 up to about AUD 220 depending on seating.
Highlights:
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- Star-studded cast: Anthony Warlow returns as “Daddy” Warbucks, Debora Krizak as Miss Hannigan, Mackenzie Dunn, Keanu Gonzalez, Amanda Lea LaVergne, and Greg Page among the ensemble.
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Creative team: Directed by Karen Johnson Mortimer with new choreography by Mitchell Woodcock. Music and book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse & Martin Charnin.
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Runtime: Approximately 2 hrs 30 min, including a 20-minute interval.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Getting there: Central location — tram routes and Flinders Street station nearby.
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Box Office hours: 1.5 hours before each performance at the theatre, weekdays 10 AM–5 PM.
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Arrive early to settle in and explore nearby dining and entertainment venues.
Insider Tips:
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- Book early, especially for school holiday matinees — sessions like 16 July at 1 PM are in demand.
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Accessibility: The theatre supports assisted seating, hearing loops, and other access needs — call ahead or note during booking.
Don’t miss this timeless, toe-tapping musical experience—it’s all about big-hearted songs, unforgettable performances, and the power of optimism. Whether you're reviving childhood memories or introducing Annie to a new generation, this season promises magic under the spotlight.
🌌 RISING Festival
RISING is Melbourne’s flagship winter arts Festival, transforming the city into a dynamic after-dark playground of contemporary art, music, performance, theatre, dance, and immersive installations.
Locations: Various locations across Melbourne including:
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- Federation Square, Melbourne Town Hall, Hamer Hall, Athenaeum Theatre, ACMI, Arts Centre Melbourne & more.
- Venues span from grand theatres to laneways, arcades, basements, and public squares—scene of laser installations, live gigs, mini-golf art shows, and street performances.
Dates & Times: Wednesday, 4 June – Sunday, 15 June 2025
Ticket Information: A mix of free and ticketed events.
Highlights:
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- Japanese Breakfast, Black Star (Yasiin Bey & Talib Kweli), Mount Kimbie, Soccer Mommy, Marlon Williams—among international and local artists.
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Art and performance – immersive laser show "intangible #form", "Swingers" art mini‑golf at Flinders St Station, theatre premieres including BLKDOG, The ACT, Hamlet reimagined, and more.
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BLOCKBUSTER – a free South Asian music takeover at Fed Square featuring rap, qawwali, pop, and more.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Map your experience using the official Rising program to pick a mix of indoor and outdoor events.
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Many venues are CBD-central and well-serviced by public transport (trams, trains); street parking is limited.
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Combine free art installations with ticketed concerts or performance pieces for a full festival evening.
Insider Tips:
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- Book early for headline artists and world premieres—they'll sell out fast.
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Include free events (laser shows, mini-golf, Fed Square takeover) to save on costs while soaking up the festival vibe.
Don’t miss this bold, boundary-pushing winter celebration—from mesmerizing art and beat-driven nights to First Nations storytelling and free cultural surprises, RISING lights up Melbourne for 12 unforgettable nights.
🌲 Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens
Lightscape is an award-winning, after-dark immersive light and sound trail winding through the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Over 2 km of illuminated paths, it features more than 20 all-new installations—think glowing floral canopies, a luminous “lawn of light,” interactive sound-art, fire gardens, and larger-than-life light sculptures.
Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne
Dates & Times: 20 June – 10 August 2025
Ticket Information: Adult: from AUD 36 (off-peak); ~AUD 40 peak; children (4–12): AUD 24–32; under 4s free.
Highlights:
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- Over 20 brand-new illuminations, including giant LED flowers, the famous Winter Cathedral, the ‘lawn of light’ and laser forests.
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Thoughtful integration of Indigenous storytelling through light, rotunda poetry, and installations like “Nura” (Gadigal language).
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Awe-inspiring interactive zones: fire gardens, sound-reactive forests, immersive Submergence tunnels, and photogenic sculpture reflections.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Book early to grab preferred times—weekday and off-peak sessions offer a quieter experience.
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Arrive ~10–15 minutes early; the timed gates ensure smooth flow.
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Transport: Tram routes (5, 6, 58, 64) to Domain Interchange, or city/train + tram/walk; paid parking nearby.
Insider Tips:
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- Warm up with mulled wine, hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows or winter fare at the trail’s Welcome Zone.
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Expect a magical stroll through a “firelight labyrinth”, glittering sculptures, and sound-synced light shows—bring gloves and cozy layers!
Don’t miss this spellbinding winter wonderland—it’s all about glistening lights, immersive art, and family-friendly enchantment beneath the stars!
📚 4, 5, 6 Club
Let your little bookworms and brainiacs dive into fun weekly activities at the library! From games and trivia to storytelling and craft, this club is the perfect chill-out spot for upper primary kids looking for a creative outlet these school holidays.
Location: North Melbourne Library, 66 Errol Street, North Melbourne VIC
Date: 23 June 2025, 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
Ticket Information: Free
Highlights:
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- Interactive storytelling sessions bring books to life.
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Hands‑on crafts to explore creativity.
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Fun games that encourage social interaction and new friendships.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Arrive ~10 minutes early to find seats and let kids settle in.
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Library amenities include child‑friendly restrooms, spacious reading areas, and a small café.
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Public transport access: Tram route 57 stops nearby; limited street parking is also available.
Insider Tips:
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- Wear clothes that can get a little messy—crafts may involve glue, glitter, paint, etc.
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Bring a labeled reusable water bottle to stay refreshed.
- Ideal companion activity: browse the kids’ section before or after the event.
Don’t miss this delightful winter wonderland of imagination at North Melbourne Library—stories that sparkle, crafts that captivate, and laughter that warms the heart on a chilly afternoon!
❄️ Winter School Holidays at Queen Vic Market
Queen Vic Market turns up the winter magic with kids' activities, themed workshops, pop-up performers, and tasty treats. Rug up and explore the stalls, warm up with hot donuts, and let the kids enjoy free holiday fun across the iconic market.
Location: C Shed, Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne VIC
Dates & Times: July 8-17, 2025 10AM-2PM
Ticket Information: Free entry. No booking required.
Highlights:
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- Planting sunflowers in eco-friendly pots.
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Customizing carry bags and plant labels.
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Root Veggie Dig—discovering hidden vegetables.
- Take-home kits to continue the gardening at home.
- All-inclusive with supplies provided.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Arrive early to ensure spot in the workshop lineup.
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Market hours: Tue/Thu 6 am–3 pm, Fri 6 am–3 pm, Sat 6 am–4 pm, Sun 9 am–4 pm.
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Easily reached via public transport; tram and bus routes stop nearby.
Insider Tips:
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- Dress in play clothes—gardening can get messy.
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Bring a sunhat and water bottle—shed can get warm.
- Check out the Kids Passport from the Visitor Hub for extra fun and rewards.
Don’t miss this earthy, hands‑on Winter School Holidays experience at Queen Vic Market—plant, dig, craft, and nurture little green thumbs amid the hustle and charm of Melbourne’s iconic market scene!
🪄 The Melbourne Magic Festival
Melbourne’s premier winter spectacle returns with over 200 mesmerizing magic performances, workshops, family shows, and adult-only illusions. Held at Arrow on Swanston’s five intimate venues, the festival brings international headliners, local talent, and hands-on experiences—all designed to amaze, inspire, and delight attendees of all ages.
Location: Arrow on Swanston, 488 Swanston St, Carlton VIC
Dates & Times: July 7-19, 2025 10AM-11:30PM
Ticket Information: From $5 to $45
Highlights:
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- Workshops & Learn Magic: Free “Introduction to Magic” sessions with Josh Staley (daily 11:50 am, 8–12 July).
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Family Fun: “Magic & Games!”, Mojo & Jimmy’s comedy spectacular, plus close-up performances for kids.
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Magic Central: Festival hub with pop-up acts, merch stall, bar, and spot to meet performers—arrive 30 minutes early.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Arrive early (≥30 min) to explore Magic Central and grab a prime seat
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Public transport: Tram #1/6/19 stops at Queensberry & Swanston; Melbourne Central Station is ~3 min walk
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Parking: Available street meters and local car parks near venues.
Insider Tips:
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- Discount Tuesdays: Most shows $18—book early!
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Workshops fill quickly: “Introduction to Magic” seats limited—reserve in advance
- Stay for the after-party: Many magicians head to Lock & Key for late-night jam sessions into the early hours.
Don’t miss this spellbinding winter wonderland at Arrow on Swanston—where sparks of wonder ignite imagination, laughter echoes in intimate theatres, and every corner holds a surprise. Dive into magic, community, and enchantment under Melbourne’s winter skies!
🎪 Circus Tent: Holiday Program
A full-day, immersive creative writing workshop that transports 8–12‑year-olds under the big top. Kids craft short stories bursting with circus flair—imagine fire‑breathing performers, daring trapeze acts, and mysteries hidden beneath the bleachers—guided by expert story mentors.
Location: Story Studios Australia, 170 Elgin St, Carlton VIC
Date & Time: 7 July 2025, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Ticket Information: Cost: $125 per child (ages 8–12)
Highlights:
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- Immersive storytelling in a circus-themed studio
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Build characters, settings & plot around circus imagery
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Group games, creative prompts & midday movie for inspiration
Plan Your Visit:
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- Arrive by 8:50 am for check-in and orientation
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Please pack a packed lunch, snacks, water bottle, and writing supplies (notebooks or digital devices)
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Pick-up at 3:00 pm from the studio
Insider Tips:
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- Themed day—children love dressing up (circus costumes encouraged!)
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Check email the day before for final instructions & a reminder
Don’t miss this dazzling day-trip into imagination—where the big top sets the stage for storytelling magic, characters leap off the page, and young writers come out roaring with creativity under Melbourne’s winter sky!
🎨 School Holiday Street Art Workshops
Guided by real street artists, these workshops teach kids the art of spray paint, stencils, and murals—without the mess at home. A brilliant way to explore urban creativity and let their imaginations run wild (on a legal wall!).
Location: The Blender Studios, 400 Spencer St, West Melbourne
Dates & Times: 9 – 17 July 2025
Ticket Information: From $59 to $89
Highlights:
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- Learn real spray-paint techniques from Melbourne street artists.
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Choose between freehand painting, stenciling, or skateboard deck art.
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Create large-scale artwork or unique skateboard designs to take home.
Plan Your Visit:
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- Arrive 10 minutes early to sign in and don protective gear
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Workshops held at The Blender Studios: easy walk from Southern Cross Station, tram routes on Spencer St, limited parking on Roslyn St.
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Sessions last ~2 hours—ideal mid-morning or afternoon school holiday activity.
Insider Tips:
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- Dress in old clothes—spray paint stains!
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Bring a water bottle; light snacks are provided.
Don’t miss this dynamic school holiday experience at West Melbourne’s creative hub—where budding artists learn real street art, unleash their style on boards and skate decks, and take home bold, colourful memories!
☀️ Quick Links
- Children's International Film Festival
- Little Builders
- Jams for Juniors: Polovtsian Dances
- Annie the Musical
- RISING Festival
- Lightscape at Royal Botanic Gardens
- 4, 5, 6 Club
- Winter School Holidays at Queen Vic Market
- The Melbourne Magic Festival
- Circus Tent: Holiday Program
- School Holiday Street Art Workshops
💡 Pro Parent Tip: Bookmark this page, screenshot your faves, and get in early—these events sell out fast!
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