School holidays in the Australian Capital Territory are a chance for families to enjoy Canberra’s incredible attractions, outdoor adventures and long-standing local traditions. Whether you’re looking for fun school holiday activities in Canberra, affordable ideas for kids, or popular ACT family experiences, this guide covers the most loved things to do during every school break.
Why Canberra Is One of Australia’s Best School Holiday Destinations
Canberra offers a rare combination of national attractions, interactive museums, outdoor recreation and family-friendly events. Many of these activities are unique to the ACT and have become annual traditions for local families.
Parents often search for:
- school holiday ideas Canberra
- activities for kids in ACT
- Canberra family events during school holidays
This page highlights the most popular options for each break, helping families make the most of their time off.
Top Canberra Attractions for School Holiday Fun
Canberra’s national institutions are among the city’s biggest drawcards. Many run special school holiday programs, making them ideal for keeping kids engaged, learning and entertained.
Questacon – Canberra’s Most Popular School Holiday Attraction
Questacon is consistently the number one attraction for families during ACT school holidays thanks to its:
- hands-on science exhibits
- holiday-only workshops
- live demonstrations
- interactive discovery zones
If you’re searching for things to do in Canberra with kids, Questacon always delivers.
National Zoo & Aquarium – Wildlife Encounters Kids Love
A favourite during every school break, the National Zoo & Aquarium offers:
- animal encounters
- guided wildlife tours
- school holiday programs
- keeper talks and feeding sessions
It’s one of the best Canberra kids activity options for animal lovers.
National Museum of Australia – Creative & Educational Holiday Activities
Families visit the National Museum for:
- school holiday craft workshops
- interactive storytelling
- hands-on exhibits
- special kid-focused events
It’s an excellent budget-friendly choice for parents seeking free or low-cost school holiday activities in Canberra.
Outdoor Activities & Nature Adventures in the ACT
Canberra’s natural landscape makes outdoor adventures one of the biggest ACT school holiday traditions.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Popular for:
- bushwalking
- ranger-led programs
- wildlife spotting (kangaroos, emus, koalas)
- family picnic areas
It’s a peaceful and educational activity suitable for all ages.
Lake Burley Griffin
A central hub for families, offering:
- scooter and bike paths
- foreshore playgrounds
- picnic and BBQ spots
- kayak and paddle boat hire
Ideal for parents searching for free Canberra school holiday activities.
National Arboretum Canberra
The Arboretum is home to:
- the famous Pod Playground
- scenic walking trails
- school holiday activities
- panoramic views
- forest picnic areas
Perfect for younger kids and outdoor family fun.
School Holiday Camps, Workshops & Classes
The ACT is known for its high-quality school holiday programs that keep kids learning, active and social.
Sports Camps & Clinics
Common choices include:
- soccer
- gymnastics
- AFL & rugby programs
- basketball
- tennis
- mixed multi-sport holiday camps
Great for families looking for active school holiday ideas in Canberra.
Creative Arts Programs
Canberra’s art community hosts:
- painting and drawing workshops
- drama classes
- pottery sessions
- dance intensives
- photography programs
Offered at Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Belconnen Arts Centre and various local studios.
STEM, Robotics & Coding Programs
Increasingly popular with ACT parents, these include:
- coding bootcamps
- Lego engineering
- robotics challenges
- Minecraft education sessions
Perfect for kids who enjoy tech, building, and problem solving.
Seasonal School Holiday Events & Canberra Traditions
The ACT has several unique cultural events that fall within school holiday periods.
Canberra Balloon Spectacular (Autumn Holidays)
Families enjoy:
- early morning balloon launches
- sunrise lakefront breakfasts
- hot air balloons over Canberra’s skyline
A much-loved annual tradition.
Floriade (Spring School Holidays)
Floriade is one of Canberra’s biggest events, attracting thousands of families. Kids enjoy:
- themed floral displays
- carnival rides
- live entertainment
- NightFest experiences
One of the most iconic Canberra school holiday activities.
Winter School Holiday Events
Canberra embraces winter with:
- ice skating rinks
- snow-play zones
- winter markets
- light festivals
Corin Forest is especially popular for ACT snow play.
Summer School Holiday Traditions
During the long December–January break, families enjoy:
- splash parks
- outdoor cinemas
- local pool visits
- BBQs and picnics
- New Year events
Warm weather makes summer one of the best times for outdoor fun.
Best Parks, Playgrounds & Free Family Activities in Canberra
Free activities are always in high demand during school holidays.
Popular places include:
- Boundless Playground
- Glebe Park Playground
- John Knight Memorial Park
- Yarralumla Play Station
- Weston Park
- Eddison Park Skate Park
- CSIRO Discovery Playground
These spots are perfect for families wanting simple, cost-free fun.
Family Day Trips From Canberra
Many ACT families use school holidays for short day trips, including:
- Tidbinbilla & Deep Space Complex
- Murrumbateman wineries (family-friendly)
- Snowy Mountains
- Goulburn & Yass
- Corin Forest (winter snow days)
Great for mixing adventure with relaxation.