From splashy movie nights to snowy day trips and epic LEGO builds, Queensland's winter school holidays are packed with family fun. Explore hands-on workshops, magical festivals, and outdoor adventures across Brisbane and beyond.

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❄️ Winter Dive-In Movie Nights

Experience the magic of movies under the stars while floating in a pool! Queensland's Dive-In Movie Nights offer a unique cinematic experience where families can enjoy popular films while relaxing in the water. It's a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation for all ages.

Location: Community pools across Queensland, including:

• • Rackley Swimming Southport
  • Riverway Lagoon, Townsville
  • Little Bayside Park, Manly Harbour Village

Dates:

• • Various dates throughout June and July 2025.
  • Specific dates and times vary by location.

Ticket Information: Entry fees vary by location; some events are free.

Highlights:

• • Watch family-friendly movies while floating in the pool.
    
  • Enjoy poolside snacks and drinks.
  • Fun for the whole family in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Plan Your Visit:

• • Bring your own floaties or rent them on-site.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot.
  • Don't forget towels and warm clothes for after the movie.

Insider Tips:

• • Check the weather forecast before attending.
  • Some venues may have themed nights—keep an eye out for special events!

Don’t miss the chance to turn movie night into a splash-tastic family event — it’s winter magic, poolside.
🎟️ More info + Book here

🧒Kids Corner at Landsborough Museum

Unleash your child's creativity at the Kids Corner in Landsborough Museum. This interactive space encourages young artists to explore self-expression through art activities, including creating self-portraits.

Location: Landsborough Museum, 4 Maleny Street, Landsborough, QLD
Dates & Times: Open Wednesday to Sunday | 10AM-3PM

Ticket Information: Entry to the museum is free; donations are appreciated.

Highlights:

• • Art activities focused on self-portrait creation.
  • Explore the museum's exhibits on local history.
  • Engaging environment for children to learn and create.

Plan Your Visit:

• • Suitable for children aged 4 and above.
  • All art materials are provided.
  • No prior booking required.

Insider Tips:

• • Pair your visit with a trip to the nearby Landsborough Historical Precinct.
  • Check the museum's website for special events during the school holidays.

Don’t miss this sweet little throwback adventure — it’s all about hands-on fun, vintage vibes, and wholesome holiday memories.

🎟️ More info here

🎡 Ekka – Royal Queensland Show

Experience the excitement of Queensland's largest annual event, the Ekka! This iconic agricultural show brings the country to the city with thrilling rides, adorable animals, and delicious food.

Location: Brisbane Showgrounds
Dates & Times: 9–17 August 2025 | 9AM

Ticket Information: $24.90
Highlights:

• • Agricultural displays and animal competitions.
  • Exciting carnival rides and games.
    
  • Live entertainment and performances.
    
  • Showbags filled with goodies for all ages.

Plan Your Visit:

• • Suitable for all ages.
  • Public transport is recommended due to limited parking.
    
  • Check the daily schedule for special events and performances.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Visit on People's Day for special discounts and events.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your day.
    

Don’t miss Queensland’s biggest family celebration — the rides, the snacks, the sparkly night skies… it’s all happening at the Ekka.

🎟️ Grab tickets here

⛸️ Dreamworld Winterfest

Embrace the chill at Dreamworld's Winterfest, where the park transforms into a winter wonderland complete with snow, ice skating, and festive fun for the whole family.

Location: Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera
Dates & Times: 28 June – 20 July 2025 | 10AM

Ticket Information: $89.00
Highlights:

• • Ice skating rink and snow play areas.
    
  • European-inspired food stalls and treats.
    
  • Live entertainment and winter-themed shows.
    
  • Special photo opportunities with Dreamworld characters.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Suitable for all ages.
  • Skate hire available on-site.
    
  • Dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Visit mid-week for smaller crowds.
    
  • Check the schedule for special performances and events.
    

Don’t miss your shot at snow play on the sunny Gold Coast — Dreamworld Winterfest is bringing the chill (and the thrills).

🎟️ Buy tickets here

🦖 JURASSIC PARK | 1 DAY with LEGO

Step into a mini Jurassic world built entirely from LEGO! Kids can unleash their inner paleontologist and builder in this one-day event packed with prehistoric fun, dino displays, and hands-on LEGO action. It’s a block-tastic blast from the past!

Location: Annerley Community Hall
Dates & Times: 7 July 2025, 9:00 am – 3:30 pm

Ticket Information: $110 per child
Highlights:

• • Dive into prehistoric learning—discover facts about Jurassic-era dinosaurs.
    
  • Build unique dinosaur-themed scenes using LEGO with guided instruction.
    
  • Expert-led play encourages creativity, teamwork, and STEM learning.
    
  • All materials provided, plus a special mystery gift to take home.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive by 8:50 am for check-in and orientation.
    
  • Children should bring nut-free snacks, water bottle, and a packed lunch (venue doesn’t provide food).
    
  • Accessible via public transport; local street parking available near the hall.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Dress comfortably—creative play can get a little messy.
    
  • Spots fill fast—register early to secure a place.
    

Don’t miss this wild LEGO adventure—step into Jurassic Brick Land, build roaring dinos, discover prehistoric wonders, and let imaginations run free under the trees at Annerley Community Hall!

🎟️ More info +book here

🤖 Ultimate Robotic LEGO Spike™

STEM fun meets LEGO robotics! In this high-energy workshop, kids get to design, build, and code their very own robots using LEGO Spike™ kits. Perfect for future engineers and tech-savvy explorers who love to tinker and create.

Location: Annerley Community Hall (Annerley Greenslopes)
Dates & Times: 8 July 2025, 9:00 am – 3:30 pm

Ticket Information: $130 per child
Highlights:

• • Hands‑on building with LEGO SPIKE™ Prime & Mindstorms EV3.
    
  • Program autonomous robots using drag‑and‑drop coding.
    
  • Engaging STEAM tasks: line‑following, sensor‑based challenges, competition missions.
    
  • Small class sizes for guided mentoring and teamwork skills.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive by 8:50 am for check‑in and safety briefing.
    
  • Bring nut‑free snacks, packed lunch, and water bottle (no food provided).
    
  • Accessible via local buses/tram; free street parking available nearby.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Dress for a day of active building—comfortable clothing recommended.
    
  • Spots fill fast—early registration advised.
    

Don’t miss this high-energy robotics workshop—where creativity meets code, imagination meets engineering, and young innovators bring LEGO robots to life under Brisbane’s winter skies!

🎟️ More info + book here

🧸 Teddy Bears' Picnic

Pack the snacks and bring your favourite cuddly companion for a delightful picnic filled with stories, games, music, and bear-y fun activities. Great for little ones who love outdoor play, imagination, and making new furry friends.

Location: Queensland Museum Rail Workshops
Dates & Times: 12 July 2025, 9:30 am – 11:30 am

Ticket Information: Child (3-15)-$11.50; Free - Children under 3.
Highlights:

• • Live music by Tim Jackman (“King of the Kids”) & Tui n Friends singing nursery rhymes.
    
  • Craft fun: build teddy bear puppets, decorate kites, and more.
    
  • Bubble entertainment with giant bubbles and roving entertainer Mr Kaboodle.
    
  • Bear hunt around the site—prizes to be won!
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive ~15 minutes early to explore activities before the event starts.
    
  • General museum facilities include parking, accessible restrooms, café, and stroller-friendly areas.
    
  • Located in Ipswich; accessible via Westside Bus route 515 from Ipswich Station, with free onsite parking.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Dress comfortably and bring a picnic rug for lounging on the Powerhouse Lawns.
    
  • For the craft sessions, arrive early—they’re “drop-in” and fill fast.
    

Don’t miss this enchanting winter family treat at the historic Rail Workshops—where teddies rule the morning, music fills the air, bubbles sparkle, crafts delight, and curious explorers make memories in the heart of Ipswich’s spectacular heritage playground!

🎟️ Book here

🧗 Tuff Nutterz

Tuff Nutterz is back—and bigger than ever! With over 300 metres of inflatable challenges, tunnels, slides, and bouncy madness, this is the ultimate way for kids (and brave parents!) to bounce off that holiday energy.

Location: Victoria Park, Brisbane
Dates & Times: 28 June – 8 July 2025

Ticket Information: From $25 to $60
Highlights:

• • 300 m inflatable obstacle course—climb, crawl, jump, slide your way through.
    
  • 6 m Tuff Slide—giant fun, dry in winter (makes it winter-appropriate).
    
  • Mini course perfect for little adventurers, plus visits from “Tuffy” the dancing T‑rex.
    
  • Food trucks, shaded rest areas, picnic zones, toilets, and spectator-friendly zones for parents.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive 10 minutes before your session start to check in smoothly with your QR code or booking name.
    
  • Victoria Park is easy to reach: on-site parking (fee applies), and close to buses/trams via Kelvin Grove Road and Herston Road.
    
  • Bring your QR ticket, signed waiver, and wear socks with grip tread for safety.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Dress for adventure: no shoes on inflatables; socks required. Bring a spare outfit and towel in case of messy fun.
    
  • Rain or shine: light rain won’t stop play, but sessions may be postponed in case of thunderstorms—refunds become gift cards.
    

Don’t miss this colossal winter thrill at Victoria Park—where laughter bounces over a 300 m inflatable course, epic slides tower above the turf, and families create unforgettable memories in the heart of Brisbane’s chilled-out school holidays!

🎟️ Book here

🏖️ Magic Beach – Live On Stage

This heartwarming stage adaptation brings the pages of Magic Beach to life through theatre, music, and storytelling. A perfect first theatre experience for young audiences, filled with wonder, imagination, and beachy magic—even in winter!

Location: QUT Gardens Theatre, Brisbane
Dates & Times: June 28-30, 2025

Ticket Information: Group tickets (20+): $26 each; A Reserve: $44; B Reserve: $34.90.
Highlights:

• • Family‑friendly adaptation from a best‑selling Australian children’s author.
    
  • Stunning staging with music, puppetry, light and movement.
    
  • Short runtime (~55 minutes) with no interval—ideal for young attention spans.
    
  • A celebration of childhood imagination and family connection.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Arrive ~15 minutes early to settle into seating and use booster options if needed.
    
  • Accessible seating and companion card facilities available; contact box office for arrangements.
    
  • QUT Gardens Theatre is a 395‑seat venue next to the Botanic Gardens, served well by buses; on‑site parking in nearby public car parks.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Popular showings—especially weekend and midday sessions—sell fast; book ahead.
    
  • Ideal for ages 3–8, but children up to 12 may enjoy it.
    

Don’t miss this enchanting winter display at QUT Gardens Theatre—where the beach becomes a place of imagination, stories come alive on stage, and families share in the wonder of childhood under Brisbane’s bright winter skies!

🎟️ More details + book here

🎨 SPARK Ipswich

SPARK is Ipswich’s winter arts and culture festival, bursting with family-friendly events, interactive installations, live performances, and epic light shows. Explore creativity and community through a colourful program that’ll warm up your winter nights.

Location: Various iconic venues across Ipswich City, including Nicholas Street, Ipswich Civic Centre precinct, Orion Springfield Central, Queen’s Park, Queensland Museum Rail Workshops, St Paul’s Anglican Church and more.
Dates & Times: Friday, 11 July – Sunday, 20 July 2025

Ticket Information: Mix of free and ticketed events
Highlights:

• • deLIGHT – captivating light projections on Nicholas St and St Paul’s Anglican Church.
    
  • HEXADECA – interactive sonic playground merging movement and music, open daily.
    
  • WOMI (World Of Music Ipswich) – vibrant cultural festival including food, craft, workshops, and global sounds (in Springfield).
    
  • Little Day Out – sustainability-themed children’s arts & music festival, perfect for families.
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Venues are walkable within Ipswich Central, with free & paid parking, plus additional events in Springfield & Queen’s Park.
    
  • Arrive early for popular installations (like deLIGHT) to get best views and program notes.
    
  • Evening light and projection shows typically start after sunset (~6–9 pm).
    

Insider Tips:

• • Bring a jacket and comfy walking shoes—some events run after dark across multiple streets.
    
  • Family‑friendly options abound—check Little Day Out and workshops (book early as they fill fast).
    

Don’t miss this spectacular winter burst of creativity at SPARK Ipswich—11 days of lights, sound, art and community magic woven through historic streets and green spaces, bringing the heart of Ipswich to glittering life under vibrant July skies!

🎟️ Visit website

❄️ Snowflakes in Stanthorpe

Snow play, ice skating, winter markets, and frosty fun—right in the heart of Stanthorpe! Snowflakes in Stanthorpe turns this charming town into a snowy wonderland with live music, toasty treats, and cool vibes for all ages.

Location: Stanthorpe Showgrounds & Main Street precinct
Dates & Times: July 4-6, 2025

Ticket Information: From A$0.00 to A$52.66
Highlights:

• • Giant snowfield with toboggans, inflatables & snowballs (Saturday & Sunday).
    
  • Street entertainment & live markets including ice‑sculpture challenge, lanterns, choirs & fireworks on Friday.
    
  • Craft zones & kid‑friendly action: puppet shows, face‑painting, workshops, petting zoo, enchanted forest, climbing wall.
    
  • Synthetic ice rink with helper dolphins for under‑5s (extra $15/25-min session).
    

Plan Your Visit:

• • Book accommodation early—motels and holiday parks are already sold out.
    
  • Location logistics: Main Street is accessible by foot and car; Showgrounds has onsite parking but expect heavy traffic—arrive early.
    
  • Tickets: buy online before June 30 or purchase Friday passes on-site (weekend and day tickets also available until sold out).
    

Insider Tips:

• • Friday is magical and free—arrive for the fireworks and ice sculpture event.
    
  • Festival is popular—expect up to 13,000 visitors; queue for food, parking, and rides can get long.
    

Don’t miss this frosty winter wonderland in the Granite Belt—three days of snowfields, skating, fire-lit fun, warm food, family crafts, and warm community spirit in Stanthorpe’s charming Showgrounds under crisp July skies!

🎟️ Buy tickets here

📚 Winter Holiday Fun at State Library of Queensland

The State Library is the perfect chill-out spot these holidays, with free activities like storytime, creative workshops, and hands-on craft sessions. A great mix of fun and learning in a calm, inspiring space for curious little minds.

Location: State Library of Queensland Cultural Precinct, Brisbane
Dates & Times: Saturday 28 June – Sunday 13 July 2025,  10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Ticket Information: Mix of free drop-in activities and paid workshops.
Highlights:

• • Animal Tracks with Colleen Sam – free creative session exploring Kalkadoon totem animals using sand art (1–3 July).
    
  • Immersive Painting Workshop – book in for a $15 storytelling through painting session (1–3 July, 1–3 pm).
    
  • Scavenger Hunt & Cozy Reading Room: daily from 10 am–3 pm across the two weeks—explore, relax, enjoy books & board games
    
  • The Corner Takeovers:
    
    • Colour My World (28 June–6 July): dress-up, construction play & wearable art
    • NAIDOC Next Generation (7–13 July): celebrate Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander heroes with creative activities

Plan Your Visit:

• • No bookings needed for free activities—just drop in!
    
  • Bring a water bottle and comfy socks. Library amenities include accessible restrooms, calm reading zones, lift access, and café options.
    
  • Located in the Queensland Cultural Centre—ample QCC parking (from $18/day) or easy public transport access by bus, train, and ferry.
    

Insider Tips:

• • Early arrival (10 am) is best for free sessions like Colour My World and the Scavenger Hunt.
    

  • Combine a free activity with a paid workshop for a full-day creative exploration.
    

Don’t miss this captivating winter celebration at the State Library—a two-week journey of art, culture, storytelling, and mindful play under Brisbane’s crisp winter sun. Perfect for families seeking creativity, connection, and cozy indoor fun!

🎟️ More info

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☀️ Quick Links

• • Winter Dive-In Movie Nights
  • Kids Corner at Landsborough Museum
  • Ekka – Royal Queensland Show
  • Dreamworld Winterfest
  • JURASSIC PARK | 1 DAY with LEGO
  • Ultimate Robotic LEGO Spike™
  • Teddy Bears' Picnic
  • Tuff Nutterz
  • Magic Beach - Live On Stage
  • SPARK Ipswich
  • Snowflakes in Stanthorpe
  • Winter Holiday Fun

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

Need the perfect gift for the day out or the car ride home? 🛍️ Shop Young Bondi’s top picks