Canberra has a wide variety of activities to keep kids young, old, and even older occupied and entertained!

In Australia, students study for about 190-200 days a year with four school holiday periods breaking up the routine. 

For two weeks in July, students in the ACT get to kick off their school shoes and enjoy the holidays. But what to do? Luckily, Canberra has a wide variety of activities to keep kids young, old, and even older occupied and entertained!

A virtual reality visit to breathtaking and pristine landscapes of Kimberly wilderness

Revealing the history, geology, culture and wonder of the remarkable Kimberley region, the National Museum of Australia (NMA) is offering The Great Kimberly Wilderness virtual reality experience over the school holidays. 

“Get ready to be transported to one of the world’s most breathtaking and pristine landscapes in the Great Kimberly Wilderness,” says head of commercial at the NMA, Jacqui Smith. 

“Guided by scientists and traditional owners, this journey crosses stunning coastlines and majestic gorges, venturing deep into these timeless lands.”

Narrated by Luke Hemsworth, the 35-minute virtual reality experience explores the striped sandstone domes of the UNESCO-listed Purnululu National Park and travels back more than 350 million years to the Devonian Reef, uncovering ancient geology that has shaped life as we know it. 

Nearly two billion years in the making, Jacqui says students will see the historic, cultural and environmental significance of the Kimberley region. 

“Throughout the film, students will explore themes of First Nations cultural connections to country, geological and environmental landmarks conserved within the UNESCO-Listed Purnululu National Park and remnants of the dinosaurs at Gantheaume Point 130 million years ago.”

Suitable for all ages, Jacqui says the headset is recommended for users eight years of age or older. 

“There’s a special school holiday schedule to make it easy for families to attend, with sessions hourly from 9.15am to 4.15pm,” she says.

Booking before the activity is recommended at nma.gov.au/kimberley.

National Museum of Australia. Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula. Call 1800 026132 or visit nma.gov.au/kimberley

Classics to comedies, the film archive’s got it all

From timeless classics to hilarious comedies, Arc Cinema at the National Film and Sound Archive’s school holidays program offers the best movie experience for the whole family, says Aidan Delaney, manager of Programs & Visitor Experience.

“Dogs, toys, and festive fun, there’s something for everyone at Arc these school holidays,” he says.

“Dogs play star roles in Runt and Lassie Come Home, fan favourite miniatures come to life in The Lego Movie 1 and 2, and it’s time for winter fun and ‘Christmas in July’ spirit as Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) gets up to mischief in ‘90s classics Home Alone and Home Alone 2. 

“Lassie Come Home (1943) tells the heartwarming tale of a loyal collie’s journey back to Yorkshire, winning hearts – and a Hollywood star – for its canine lead,” says Aidan. 

“The Lego Movie (and its sequel) bring clever satire, dazzling animation and catchy tunes to the big screen, following everyday minifigure Emmet on two chaotic, universe-saving adventures. 

“In Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Macaulay Culkin shines as Kevin, a resourceful kid who hilariously outsmarts bumbling burglars while left to his own devices. 

“Meanwhile, Runt offers a charming Aussie underdog story about a girl, her gifted pooch, and the power of perseverance.” 

Aidan says the NFSA is open daily in Acton’s cultural precinct and encourages visitors to check out the ticketed events, explore the heritage building for free or simply enjoy a locally roasted coffee in the archive’s sunny courtyard. 

“Arc Cinema is Canberra’s go-to spot for the culturally curious. Enjoy family favourites, curated classics, and special events,” he says.

“Grab a drink, settle into our art deco cinema, and experience the movies the way they were meant to be.”

Winter school holiday program 

Screenings at Arc Cinema at the National Film and Sound Archive, 1 McCoy Circuit, Acton.

Thursday, July 10 – 1pm, Lassie Come Home 

Friday, July 11 – 1pm, The Lego Movie (closed captions available) and 6pm, Home Alone

Thursday, July 17 – 1pm, Runt (closed captions available)

Friday, July 18 – 1pm, The Lego Movie 2 (closed captions available) and 6pm, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. 

Ticket prices are $10 concession / $12 adult + $1.50 booking fee.

Accessibility: The NSFA believes everyone should have the opportunity to experience film and provides specialised equipment for a range of accessibility needs. Arc Cinema is fully wheelchair accessible. 

More information, call 6248 2000 or email tickets@nfsa.gov.au. 

Players take to stage in Pirates performance

Celebrating their 60th anniversary this year, the Queanbeyan Players will be performing The Pirates of Penzance at the Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre from Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 13. 

“While the story hasn’t changed from the original, written by Gilbert and Sullivan in 1879, the feel in the chorus numbers provides a more modern upbeat tempo, while maintaining the wonderful solo numbers,” says director Alison Newhouse. 

“In its original form, Gilbert and Sullivan wrote the Pirates of Penzance as a parody of traditional opera, so it makes sense to give this version pantomime elements to create an even more fun and enjoyable theatre experience for today’s audiences.

“Come along to an afternoon or evening performance and enjoy beautiful harmonies accompanied by an impressive 16-piece orchestra, exciting and creative choreography, an extremely talented cast of 36, all thrown together on the stage at The Q.”

“What more could you ask for?” she says. 

The Pirates of Penzance at the Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, from Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 13. Tickets at theq.net.au or call 6285 6290.

History of Australia through correctional eyes

Opened in 2005, the Cooma Correctional Museum offers the history of Australia through correctional eyes, says statewide museum manager Andrew Weglarz.

“We show the history of corrections in Australia starting from the First Fleet, up until today,” he says.

“In 2023, we celebrated our 150th anniversary, we’re the oldest working jail in Australia.”

Andrew says people should think of them as a big-city museum in a rural setting.

“We have a working gallows, people can use a real trap-door, but we also have fire trucks and tractors from history,” he says.

Andrew says they have serving, minimum-security prisoners working as guides.

“We have done risk assessments with them, and they are coming to the end of serving their time,” he says.

“We also have a show of Aboriginal history.”

He says the museum has been named the TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award Winner for 2024, and has previously received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, alongside some fantastic reviews.

Andrew previously worked as a senior prison officer in the UK and in Canberra.

“My passion is the privilege I have been given to tell Australia’s history,” he says.

“I also set up displays in the reception areas of some other correctional facilities, too.”

Cooma Correctional Museum, 2 Vagg Street, Cooma. Open every day, 8.30am-3.15pm. Call 6452 5974 or visit correctiveservices.dcj.nsw.gov.au

A hands-on experience in art

Lavender Art Studios has been a beacon for young artists since 1999, says owner Elita Mackay. 

“This July, the studio invites children aged 5 to 13 to immerse themselves in a vibrant world of colour, movement and celebration through our Festival Carnival Creative holiday art workshops,” she says. 

Running from July 7 to 18, Elita says these workshops are inspired by global festivals and performance art, offering a blend of artistic exploration and cultural appreciation. 

Each day will be divided into morning sessions (9am-12.30pm) and afternoon sessions (1.30pm-5pm) to allow for flexibility in families. 

Participants will explore various mediums, from watercolour pencils, sculpting and acrylic painting to using posca pens and printmaking.  

“With more than 25 years of hands-on experience, our professional art teachers provide individualised attention, tailoring guidance to each child’s skill level,” says Elita. 

“The studio’s nurturing environment ensures that every young artist feels supported in their creative journey.”

All art materials are provided at the studio with the session cost including a morning or afternoon tea for the participants. 

“It’s more than just an art class,” says Elita.

“It’s an opportunity to explore, create and celebrate the joy of artistic expression.”

Lavender Art Studio. 42 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 0412 649770 or visit lavenderartstudios.com.au

A ‘fun stop’ for a sweet adventure

Lolly Swagman owner Ian Richardson reckons Berrima is such a “fun stop for passersby to stretch their legs and grab a few lollies for the next leg of your roadtrip”. 

The business has been exploring new tastes for nearly three decades and 

Ian has been the owner for the past 11 years, saying they always appreciate their Canberra customers.

Located in the heart of the Southern Highlands, the lolly shop stocks all-time favourite treats and the latest-trending tastes from around the world.

“We lost count at 1300 different treats and we know it’s more than that,” he says.

According to Ian, the store is a common stop on people’s trips to Berrima.

“It’s a happy place with kids excitedly exploring new tastes, older people reminiscing and sharing in the thrill of finding a favourite and the great stories that go with them,” he says.

“We often see people who’d come as children now bringing in their own children and sharing their experiences, which is lovely to be allowed to join in on. It’s nice to have that history.”

With the recent polar blast, Ian says they have their fingers crossed to see the snow, but are ready to welcome customers into their warm shop for a fun taste exploration.

Lolly Swagman, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima. Call 4877 1137, or visit lollyswagman.com.au

Gymnastics program builds confidence

Open to school-aged children from five to 12 years old, Canberra City Gymnastics Club (CCGC) CEO Lisa Fitzgerald, says they will be offering a school holiday program to keep children entertained while on break from school. 

“Throughout the day, participants will complete gymnastics circuits, a variety of games, experience free play and exploration on the equipment as well as will have some down time watching a couple of episodes of a television show after lunch,” she says. 

“CCGC provides morning and afternoon tea for participants, so families only need to ensure that lunch is packed.” 

No former gymnastics experience is required and Lisa says their coaches will be able to adjust the program to suit an individual’s level and experience. 

“Gymnastics is a fun, engaging sport with a number of benefits for participants,” she says. 

“CCGC’s school holiday program is a fun way to explore the sport of gymnastics, make new friends and stay out of the cold Canberra winter.”

Lisa says they also run other programs during school terms, including kindergym for children aged 18 months to five years and their recreational program for children aged five and above. 

“Participants will learn a variety of new skills and gain the confidence to try new things all while having fun and making new friends,” she says. 

Canberra City Gymnastics Club. 85 Chandler Street, Belconnen and 196 Mouat Street, Lyneham. Call 6251 1131 or visit canberracitygymnastics.com.au

Getting close-up and personal with animals

More hands-on than any zoo or park, Taralga Wildlife Park offers close up and personal animal experiences, making it the perfect outing for the whole family, says owner John Stafford.

“Meet all our regular visitors’ favourites like Karl the wombat,” he says.

“You’ll find Karl out often just waiting for a pat and some attention or visit the friendship farm area that also features rabbits, guinea pigs and sheep.”

The park also has many species of kangaroos and wallabies, including a “spectacular” white kangaroo and, in the friendship area, young kangaroo Gary. There are more than 100 species of birds including macaws, curlews, parrots, finches and endangered freckled ducks, as well as free-ranging peacocks.

With more than 50 exhibits featuring animals such as dingoes, deer, antelope, quokka, echidna, camels, llamas and alpacas, John says there are plenty of animals and birds to see and feed.

Visitors can make a day out of the park by finishing it off at the cafe, which John says serves great coffee and cake or light lunch options until 3pm.

He says there’s also a good range of cafes and hotels in the area to enjoy a variety of food.

Taralga Wildlife Park is open 10am to 4pm, Thursday to Monday, and is open every day during school holidays.

Taralga Wildlife Park, 257 Bannaby Road, Taralga. Call 0419 014540 or search Taralga Wildlife Park on Facebook.