From fairy tales in the park to dinosaurs in the city and even a real-life astronaut, Perth offers a plethora of activities to keep the whole family entertained this spring school holidays. With events that cater to various interests, families are spoilt for choice. Here are our top 10 suggestions for a memorable holiday experience.
Perth Royal Show: A Timeless Tradition
One of Perth’s most cherished traditions, the Perth Royal Show, returns to Claremont Showground from September 27 to October 4. This annual event brings with it the familiar buzz of carnival rides and the mouthwatering aroma of hot cinnamon doughnuts. This year’s program is packed with crowd favorites and new attractions, including daring stunt shows, extreme motocross demonstrations, and sheepdog trials.
Showgoers can dive into the vast array of show bags before ending the day with a spectacular fireworks display over Claremont. Tickets start at $17.50 for children, with free entry for kids under five, and various family passes and discounted public transport options are available.
The AWESOME Festival: A Creative Wonderland
In the heart of the city, the AWESOME International Arts Festival will transform the Perth Cultural Centre from September 30 to October 4 into a vibrant wonderland of creativity, imagination, and play. Designed especially for children, the festival is a highlight of the spring school holidays, drawing families from across the metro area.
This year’s program includes world-class children’s theatre, captivating puppetry performances, live music, and interactive art installations. Many events are free, and ticketed shows are kept low-cost, allowing families to enjoy multiple experiences without breaking the bank. The festival atmosphere is enhanced by food trucks, shaded seating areas, and a relaxed, community-focused vibe.
Mandurah Arts Festival: A Month-Long Celebration
Down in Mandurah, the Mandurah Arts Festival continues through to October 12, offering a vibrant celebration of creativity and community. Set against the scenic foreshore, the festival features interactive art installations, open-air concerts, pop-up performances, and a wide range of family-friendly workshops and activities.
Visitors can explore giant inflatable sculptures and whimsical public artwork scattered through the town centre. Live music from local indie bands, jazz ensembles, circus acts, and dance troupes are sure to impress. Most events are free, making the Mandurah Arts Festival an ideal day trip or weekend getaway for families looking to escape the city.
Nature and Light Shows: Kings Park and Joondalup
Nature lovers should head to Kings Park for the Everlasting Kings Park Festival, which is in its final days. The park is currently a breathtaking showroom of WA’s most iconic wildflowers. The festival, ending on September 29, offers guided wildflower walks, interactive discovery trails, and nature-based craft workshops.
Meanwhile, in the northern suburbs, Joondalup’s Central Park becomes a glowing wonderland with the Bloom Joondalup light show, running from September 26 to October 26. This immersive event features laser beams, interactive installations, and ambient soundscapes. Adult tickets are priced at $17.50, children aged 3–17 at $12.50, with a family pass available for $49.
Unique Experiences: Meeting Astronauts and Dinosaurs
Scitech in West Perth offers an out-of-this-world experience on September 27, where children can meet a real-life NASA astronaut. This event is part of Scitech’s mission to inspire the next generation of scientists. The astronaut will share stories of space travel, and children will have the opportunity to ask questions.
For those fascinated by the prehistoric era, the Dinos Alive exhibition at the Northbridge Centre continues until November 23. This immersive experience brings dinosaurs to life with animatronic models and virtual reality adventures. Entry starts at $22, and booking ahead is recommended due to its popularity.
Railway Adventures and Fairy Tales
Railfest 2025, on October 5 at the Railway Museum in Bassendean, is a must for train enthusiasts. The event features model railway displays, miniature train rides, and historic railway carriages. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children, with a family pass available for $25.
On October 11, Hyde Park in North Perth will host Fairy Tales in the Park, a magical event filled with live storytelling, whimsical music, and interactive craft stations. Children can come dressed as their favorite storybook characters. The event is free, but registration is required.
Bricktober: A Lego Extravaganza
Lego enthusiasts should not miss Bricktober at Curtin Stadium in Bentley on October 11 and 12. The festival showcases hundreds of Lego creations, from detailed cityscapes to fantasy worlds. Visitors can participate in hands-on building zones and thrilling competitions. This event is perfect for Lego lovers of all ages.
With such a diverse range of activities, Perth’s spring school holidays promise unforgettable experiences for families. Whether exploring creativity, nature, or history, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
