Affordable School Holiday Activities on the North Shore
Looking for ways to get the kids out of the house? Here are eight events to check out.
Huw Bradshaw
September 19, 2025
The spring school holiday runs from September 27 until October 12. Good luck.
Pirate Pete’s recycling adventure
When I think about sustainable living and recycling, my mind does not usually fly to maritime piracy and one-eyed bandits. However, at Artarmon Library, Pirate Pete and his parrot sidekick will be hosting a show for kids aged 4–7 teaching them about how we can be more sustainable in our day to day lives.
When: September 29, 11am
Where: 139 Artarmon Road
Price: Free
Family Bushwalk — Berry Island
The Heritage-listed reserve is home to native wildlife like ringtail possums and superb fairy-wrens. Keep an eye out for Indigenous rock carvings along the walking trail.
Where: Bottom of Shirley Road, Wollstonecraft
Price: Free
Image: North Sydney Council
Self-guided family tour: Cockatoo Island
While the guided tours of Cockatoo Island will set you back $20 a head for kids, you can always take a self-guided tour. You’ll need a guide booklet from the Visitor Centre.
Where: Cockatoo Island Visitor Centre
Price: $5 for a booklet
Image: Sydney Tourism
Eco Holidays — Gardening with seeds and seedlings
Teach your children well at this school holiday gardening workshop, where they can learn to plant seeds, make biodegradable pots and homemade seed-raising mix. Recommended for ages five to 10. Bookings required.
When: September 30, 10:30am
Where: 2 Balls Head Drive
Price: Free
Le Marché
The weekend the school holidays kick off, this French marketplace will be running in the heart of Willoughby. Come enjoy the accordion and taste the cheese.
When: September 28, 9am – 1:30pm
Where: 85 Penshurst Street, Willoughby
Price: Free
TechAware – Create your own VR worlds
At this VR experience workshop you can roadtest the hardware for free. Booking required, recommended for ages 13 and up.
When: October 2, 10am
Where: Chatswood Library
Price: Free
School holiday baking class
A good way to learn some practical life skills, this class will teach your kids the basics of baking and how to make some easy homemade treats. Ages 12–18.
When: September 30, 11am
Where: St Ives Community Centre
Price: $10
Image: Ku-ring-gai Council
Ping pong comp
Reckon you’re pretty decent on the paddles? Early in October, Gordon Library Youth Hub will host a friendly ping pong competition. For ages 12 – 18.
When: October 2, 2:30pm
Where: Gordon Library
Cost: $5 entry
Image Credit: North Sydney Council