It’s that time again! School holidays have arrived and we’re here for it. Sure, a snuggly movie day at home is good every now and then, but with so much to do in the Illawarra, it’d be a shame not to round up the bambinos and get exploring.
We’ve put together 10 great options to keep the kids busy and active these July school holidays.
Once you’ve worked your way through these awesome ideas don’t forget to check out our Event Directory for even more fun-packed events, classes, workshops and more.
1 :: Fun At PCYC
There is always something fun, creative and active happening at the PCYC Lake Illawarra and Bulli holiday activities. From laser tag to gymnastics, through to origami, shooting hoops, beading and more! Head here for the list of awesomeness at Bulli and here for Lake Illawarra!
2 :: Hangdog Climbing Gym
With over 140 different climbs on 40 ropes, it adds a whole new meaning to the expression ‘the kids are climbing up the walls’. Hangdog Climbing Gym is a great way for the little ones, the big ones and the in-between ones to burn some energy and earn a good night’s sleep.
3 :: A Winter Wonderland
The fabulous Kiama Winter Festival is back with so much wintery fun for kids – perfect timing for the school holidays.
There’s street performers, live music, workshops and loads for kid friendly activities.
Oh and make sure to come hungry for all the on-street dining as well.
4 :: FOLKplay’s Outdoor Holiday Program
Get the kiddos unleashing their inner adventurer with this awesome sounding holiday program.
So much outdoor fun to be had from archery, guided bushwalks, clay and woodcraft, leatherwork, shelter building, nature art, animal tracking, group games, knot skills and campfire cooking.
It’s the kind of hands-on outdoor fun that helps kids build confidence, learn new skills and get amongst our beautiful Illawarra nature!
5 :: 10B Bike Track
Let’s get rolling! Pack the bikes, the helmets, the water, the snacks… oh and the family and make your way to Dharawal National Park for a gravel trail ride through scenic bushlands.
This one is a 30km round trip so best to block out a few hours and if you’re bringing littlies along, consider only doing a portion of the track or rocking the child seat. As we are having a bit of a wet and windy year so far, it’s worth checking the National Parks Website to make sure the track is open before you head off.
We can’t think of a better way for everyone to get away from the screens and into the green!
6 :: Loads At The Library
Both Wollongong and Shellharbour council libraries turn it up over school holidays. With plenty of activities that are free or low cost it’s a fab [and cheap] way to keep the kiddos entertained over the two weeks.
There’ll be movie screenings, art and crafts sessions, workshops, author talks and so much more.
Check out all the lovely library events happening in the Illawarra these school holidays.
7 :: Christmas in July – Family Fun Day
We’re pretty sure most kiddos would jump at the chance to celebrate Christmas not once, but twice a year.
And they can do just that at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum on 13 July.
There’ll be train rides, food stalls and even a visit from Santa and his mates. Ho, ho, choo choo!
8 :: Fun At Georgia Rose
Georgia Rose in Shell Cove can always be relied on for some School Holiday fun and these holidays are no different.
Check out the Curious Aquarium Workshop where kids create their own ‘waterless fish tank’ on the 7th and the Design your own Tote Bag Workshop on the 8th.
There’s also DIY Drinks Bottle & Bottle Lanyard on the 14th and Mini Masterpieces on the 15th.
9 :: Silent Disco Party at Tabatinga
Dapto Leagues Club is turning a whopping 70 years old this year and to celebrate their throwing a Silent Disco Party.
It’s free to join, just make sure to book your little one’s spot in advance.
Tabatinga is also hosting a range of other fab free school holiday activities that are worth looking into as well.
10 :: Kick Around
Winter is soccer season in the Illawarra, so it’s a perfect time to get your little Sam Kerrs and Tim Cahills practising their skills.
The Wollongong Wolves Winter Clinic has sessions running over both weeks for children aged 6-14.
PEOPLECARE FSC Flare Football School Holiday Clinics are happening in different parks and ovals all around the Illawarra.
Phew, hopefully that should keep our little darlings entertained for a good while.
And for more exciting school holidays happening around the Illawarra these holidays, head to our event directory here.
Coffee at the ready peeps- we’ve got this!
