As spring breathes new life into Perth, families are eagerly seeking ways to make the most of the school holidays. From captivating festivals to interactive exhibitions, the city offers a plethora of activities designed to entertain and educate. Here are ten standout events that promise to delight both young and old this season.
Perth Royal Show: A Timeless Tradition
The Perth Royal Show, a beloved annual event, returns to Claremont Showground from September 27 to October 4. This iconic fair is a staple in the community, known for its exhilarating carnival rides and the irresistible aroma of hot cinnamon doughnuts. This year’s program is brimming with crowd-pleasers and fresh attractions, including daring stunt shows and extreme motocross demonstrations.
Visitors can indulge in a variety of show bags and conclude their day with a vibrant fireworks display. Tickets start at $17.50 for children, with free entry for kids under five, and various family passes and discounted public transport options available.
AWESOME Festival: A Celebration of Creativity
The AWESOME International Arts Festival takes over the Perth Cultural Centre from September 30 to October 4, transforming it into a hub of creativity and imagination. Tailored for children, the festival features world-class theatre, puppetry performances, live music, and interactive art installations.
Many events are free, and ticketed shows are affordable, allowing families to enjoy multiple experiences without financial strain. The festival’s community-focused atmosphere, complete with food trucks and shaded seating, makes it an ideal outing for families.
Mandurah Arts Festival: A Month-Long Celebration
In Mandurah, the Arts Festival continues through October 12, offering a vibrant celebration of creativity against the scenic foreshore. This month-long event features interactive art installations, open-air concerts, and family-friendly workshops.
Visitors can explore giant inflatable sculptures and whimsical public artworks scattered throughout the town. With most events free, the festival serves as a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for families.
Nature and Light Shows: Kings Park and Joondalup
Everlasting Kings Park Festival
Nature enthusiasts should not miss the Everlasting Kings Park Festival, which concludes on September 29. The park is a stunning display of Western Australia’s iconic wildflowers. Families can enjoy guided wildflower walks and nature-based workshops, with free entry adding to the allure.
Bloom Light Show Joondalup
In Joondalup, the Bloom Light Show transforms Central Park into a glowing wonderland from September 26 to October 26. This immersive experience combines light and sound, offering a sensory adventure for visitors. Tickets are reasonably priced, with family passes available for $49.
Interactive Experiences: From Space to Dinosaurs
Meet an Astronaut at Scitech
Scitech in West Perth offers a unique opportunity to meet a NASA astronaut on September 27. This event is part of Scitech’s mission to inspire future scientists and explorers. The astronaut will share stories of space travel, providing a rare glimpse into life beyond Earth.
Dinos Alive Exhibition
The Dinos Alive exhibition at Northbridge Centre runs until November 23, bringing prehistoric creatures to life with animatronic dinosaurs and interactive fossil digs. Entry starts at $22, and advance booking is recommended due to its popularity.
Family Fun and Fantasy: Railfest and Fairy Tales
Railfest 2025
Railfest 2025 takes place on October 5 at the Railway Museum in Bassendean. This event celebrates trains with model railway displays and miniature train rides. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children, with a family pass available for $25.
Fairy Tales in the Park
Hyde Park hosts Fairy Tales in the Park on October 11, transforming into a storybook setting with live storytelling and interactive craft stations. The event is free, but registration is required.
Bricktober: A Lego Extravaganza
Bricktober returns to Curtin Stadium in Bentley on October 11 and 12, showcasing incredible Lego creations. Visitors can participate in hands-on building zones and thrilling competitions. This event is a must for Lego enthusiasts of all ages.
As Perth embraces the warmth of spring, these events offer families a chance to explore, learn, and create lasting memories together. Whether it’s the thrill of a carnival ride or the wonder of meeting an astronaut, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.
