Keeping the kids entertained these school holidays doesn't have to mean spending hundreds of dollars.
Central Coast Council's services have put together a wonderful program of free and low-cost family activities running across the Coast these winter holidays – from hands-on workshops and art classes to theatre shows and sporting fun.
Whether you've got a budding artist, future engineer, theatre lover or energetic little adventurer, there's something happening almost every day of the holidays – and a lot of it is free.
Become an Artist for the Day
If your kids love getting creative, Gosford Regional Gallery has dozens of fantastic art workshops running throughout the holidays.
Children can paint, draw, sculpt, weave, crochet, create terrariums, design jewellery, explore manga, learn watercolour techniques and much more, all guided by experienced art tutors.
Kids can choose to learn how to draw Star Wars characters, sculpt and paint funky clay snails, create beautiful watercolour flowers, design colourful fish collages, weave their own artwork or make a decoupaged trinket dish to take home. There are even workshops inspired by artists like Matisse and Frida Kahlo, making every session a chance to try something new.
Every workshop runs for two hours, costs $30 (including all materials) and there are classes for a wide range of ages and interests. Bookings are essential.
After the workshop, take some time to wander through the beautiful Edogawa Commemorative Garden, feed the colourful koi and ducks, and explore the Gallery's free exhibitions before heading home.
Tip: These workshops book out very quickly, so snap up your spots fast.
Create, Build, Code and Play at Your Local Library
The Central Coast's libraries have put together an impressive school holiday program for kids of all ages.
There are coding and robotics workshops, 3D printing, Minecraft activities, manga and anime sessions, Dungeons & Dragons, LEGO challenges, science workshops and plenty of hands-on craft activities. Whether your child loves technology, gaming, making things or trying something completely new, there's plenty to keep curious minds entertained.
One standout is the Neuranext A.I. & Robotics workshop where kids and teens can see autonomous drones and A.I.-powered robots, including humanoid and robotic dogs. It's a fabulous hands-on session designed to inspire the next generation of innovators.
Library activities range from free to just $18, but bookings are essential. These popular workshops often sell out, so it's worth securing your spot early.
Indoor Fun for Active Kids
Need somewhere to burn some energy?
Make a splash into the heated pools at Woy Woy's Peninsula Leisure Centre. Kids can tackle giant pool inflatables, zoom down the waterslide, and improve their swimming through intensive Learn to Swim programs. Pool inflatables and waterslide sessions are included with normal pool entry – making it a super affordable way to pack in some active fun no matter the weather.
Lake Haven Recreation Centre is hosting casual basketball sessions. Come for an hour or stay and play all day – and it's just $6.50.
Big Adventures on Stage
Laycock Street Community Theatre has an excellent line-up these school holidays. Grab your Maltesers and take a seat.
Finding Nemo JR. | Dive beneath the sea with the Gosford Musical Society Juniors as they bring Disney and Pixar's much-loved tale Finding Nemo to life. You all know the characters... now come meet them on the stage.
The Farmy Farm | If your kids love silly humour, this circus-comedy favourite is packed with circus aerials, juggling, physical comedy, audience participation and plenty of laughs. See our feature here.
Signor Baffo | Signor Baffo combines comedy and plenty of audience interaction. If you love the sound of pies in the face and juggling spaghetti, grab your seats pronto. See our feature here.
Cirquosis | Roundabout Circus delivers an energetic contemporary circus spectacular featuring acrobatics, aerial performances and playground-inspired fun.
K-Pop Live | Calling all K-Pop fans! This high-energy concert celebrates the biggest hits from the hugely popular K-Pop Demon Hunters, with colourful costumes, wonderful choreography and plenty of opportunities to dance along.
Meet the Coast's Famous Pelicans
Get up close to the Central Coast's famous pelicans every afternoon (3.30pm) during the school holidays.
Head to Pelican Plaza at The Entrance for Pelican Time, where Marine Wildlife Rescue volunteers share facts about these iconic birds, explain how injured pelicans are rescued and cared for, and teach families simple ways to help protect our local wildlife.
It's entertaining, educational and completely free – making it a perfect addition to a family day out at The Entrance. And while you're there you can wander the promenade, play on the multiple playgrounds, and grab a milkshake or ice cream.
More Fun. Less Fuss.
To see the full outline on what's on offer every day, click the link below to download the itinerary.
Written By: KATIE STOKES
Founder & Editor
After working in print and online media for more than a decade, Katie launched Playing in Puddles in 2017. A mum of three young boys and local of the Central Coast, Katie loves discovering and sharing all that’s happening in our region.
