Victorian families are in for a summer filled with cost-friendly fun as the Allan Labor Government offers a wide range of free and low-cost activities. From art and music to craft, exhibitions, festivals, and performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Acting Premier Ben Carroll and Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne inaugurated the summer of family fun at Scienceworks’ new exhibition, Air Playground, which allows visitors to explore the science of aerodynamics through interactive experiences. Several other venues and events across the state are also offering affordable entertainment options for families.
Scienceworks, known for its family-friendly programs, is hosting an exciting lineup of events at its new exhibition this holiday season. Children and concession cardholders can enjoy free general entry to Scienceworks, the Melbourne Museum, and the Immigration Museum, with additional charges only for special exhibitions. Furthermore, State Library Victoria will be organizing the Kids Takeover event on January 18, where children can participate in various free activities, crafts, and entertainment throughout the library site. From building a cardboard mini-city to learning circus tricks, Kids Takeover promises a day filled with excitement and engagement.
Art enthusiasts are not left behind this summer, as the NGV’s blockbuster exhibition, Triennial, will be running throughout the season. Visitors can immerse themselves in a fascinating underwater world designed specifically for children in the Melbourne-exclusive RIFIFI: Jean Jullien for Kids exhibit. Additionally, NGV is hosting the action-packed NGV Kids Summer Festival from January 8-14, offering free tickets to children of all ages.
For cinema enthusiasts, ACMI is a must-visit destination. TheStory of the Moving Image exhibition, which explores the evolution of cinema, can be enjoyed for free. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to experience the immersive Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature installation, where they can witness the stunning transformation from droplets of water to plants, cells, and stars. Admission tickets to ACMI are priced at $5 for children under 16.
Outside of Melbourne, Geelong Gallery and Warrnambool Art Gallery are also hosting art and craft sessions, workshops, and exhibitions tailored to kids and teens. Moreover, as part of the 2024 NGV Kids on Tour program, over 140 suburban and regional galleries will be offering free art making activities.
Nature lovers have plenty of options as well. Children under 16 can visit Healesville Sanctuary, Kyabram Fauna Park, Melbourne Zoo, and Werribee Open Range Zoo for free during the school holidays. The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden within the Royal Botanic Gardens provides a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
For families looking to enjoy the great outdoors, MPavilion in Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Gardens offers free workshops, activities, and performances. Additionally, there is a program of summer events for families running statewide during the Midsumma Festival.
Acting Premier Ben Carroll highlighted the abundance of affordable fun available to families, stating, Lots of fun at low or no cost – there’s so much on offer for all ages at our museums, galleries, zoos, and parks. Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne emphasized the government’s commitment to helping families get creative and create lasting memories.
Museums Victoria CEO and Director Lynley Crosswell expressed excitement about the summer program at Scienceworks, highlighting the institution’s dedication to fostering curiosity and joy in young minds through hands-on experiences and immersive learning.
With numerous activities and events taking place across Victoria, families are encouraged to explore the arts, science, nature, and more without stretching their budgets. To discover the full range of cost-friendly family activities happening throughout the state, visit creative.vic.gov.au.
