Don't let the weekend pass you by! We've dug up the most unique, one-off happenings in Ōtautahi, from the last chance to catch the Buskers magic to some seriously charming local fun. Get amongst the final day of the Buskers Festival atmosphere and catch some brilliant local acts!
Quick Picks
Summer Sundays
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Relaxed, free live music surrounded by nature in the Botanic Gardens.
All The Things I Wish I Could Be
4 Rolleston Avenue, Central City
A high-energy, interactive musical comedy show perfect for whānau indoors.
Hobby Horse Competition - 8 Days Of Play
Christchurch, Central City
A super cute, low-key event centred around hobby horses for little ones.
· January 31
3ALL THE THINGS I WISH I COULD BE : Blast off with Jeff and Tom in this wild musical comedy! It’s full of original songs and interactive moments, making it high-energy fun for the whole whānau.This musical comedy is interactive and high-energy, perfect for getting the wiggles out indoors on Saturday morning.
HOBBY HORSE COMPETITION - 8 DAYS OF PLAYFREE : Part of the '8 Days Of Play' series, this sounds like a charming, simple event centred around hobby horses. A super cute, low-key option for Saturday morning.It's free, charming, and specifically seems geared toward younger kids—a great low-stress start to the day.
BUSKERS JAM (LAST NIGHT!) : This is the final night for this fast, cheeky mix of circus, comedy, and acrobatics! While the main show has an age restriction, soak up the festival buzz beforehand.It’s the final night for this festival staple, so catch the energy before it wraps up. Great evening entertainment!
· February 1
3WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL STREET PERFORMANCES (LAST DAY!)FREE : It's the final day of the World Buskers Festival—get out and see global stars doing circus and comedy right on the street! The city centre will be buzzing with energy.This is the ultimate free, fun, and chaotic Sunday activity. Catch the international talent before they pack up!
SUMMER SUNDAYSFREE : Grab a blanket and relax in the beautiful Botanic Gardens with live music as part of the Summer Sundays series. A classic, free, relaxing way to spend part of your Sunday.It's a completely free, relaxed cultural offering in one of the city's best spots—perfect for chilling out after a busy Saturday.
KIDS GALA (WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL FINALE) : This is the grand finale for the young fans, hand-picking the best family acts from the festival. Expect magic and hilarious comedy, safely screened from the R18 stuff!If you want the Buskers atmosphere guaranteed to be kid-friendly, this ticketed gala is the perfect curated showcase for Sunday afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Christchurch this weekend (Jan 31 - Feb 1)?
You can enjoy the free World Buskers Festival Street Performances happening throughout the City Centre all day Sunday (Feb 1st)! Plus, Sunday afternoon features the free Summer Sundays live music in the Botanic Gardens.
Is there anything good for younger children that is low cost?
The Hobby Horse Competition on Saturday morning (Feb 1st) sounds adorable and is listed as free, making it a great option for toddlers and pre-schoolers.
What is the last chance to see the World Buskers Festival in action?
Sunday, February 1st, is your last chance! Check out the street performances during the day, or grab tickets for the dedicated Kids Gala at 2:00 PM for a curated family show.