Get ready for a busy weekend in Kochi on March 14th and 15th, 2026! The absolute must-see event is the family-friendly Gems Kids Fest happening at Gopinath Gardens, packed with live shows. For crafty families, there are several workshops at Cochin Palace, and don't forget the permanent fun at Wonderla if you need an adrenaline rush. Here are the best picks for local families this weekend.
See our top picks
Subhash Bose Park
Marine Drive
A free, well-maintained park with play areas near the backwaters.
LuLu International Shopping Mall Fun
Edappally
Indoor entertainment including a children's park, ice skating, and bowling.
Gems Kids Fest
Gopinath Gardens
A festival explicitly designed for children of all ages with non-stop live shows.
· March 14
3: This is a vibrant, family-friendly festival designed to spark creativity and entertainment for kids. It features over 25 live shows across multiple stages, including science, robotics, superhero acts, and storytelling.This is the largest dedicated kids' festival listed for the weekend, offering full-day entertainment options.
MANDALA ART - KOCHI : Engage in the intricate art of Mandala drawing. This calming activity is suitable for older children or those who enjoy detailed creative work.Listed as running this Saturday and is pulled from the kids' events section, suggesting suitability for younger attendees.
JAPANESE SHIBORI WORKSHOP - KOCHI : Learn the traditional Japanese tie-dyeing technique of Shibori. This is a fun, hands-on craft session, perfect for families who don't mind a little controlled mess.Shibori involves dyeing and fabric manipulation, making it a very engaging tactile experience for kids.
Also On· anytime this weekend
13: A hands-on arts and crafts workshop where kids can learn to create their own custom scents. This is a great indoor activity if the weather is unpredictable.This workshop is specifically listed under the kids' section on BookMyShow, confirming its family appeal.
: Explore the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold lacquer. This workshop offers a unique lesson in art and philosophy.It is listed as a kids' event and focuses on a unique craft, offering something different from standard painting workshops.
: A chance to mix fragrances and craft custom scented candles. Kids love making things they can take home, and this workshop fits the bill.Candle making is always a popular, sensory craft activity for school-aged children.
: This event is listed as a storytelling event type under the name 'Picnic.' It's a gentle way to spend an afternoon indoors.Storytelling events are essential activities for engaging younger children.
: Catch a traditional Kathakali performance showcasing vibrant costumes and expressive makeup. This cultural experience is highly recommended for all ages to soak up local arts.This recurring cultural event is listed specifically under the 'Kids' section, suggesting family welcome and appeal.
: If you need a guaranteed day of fun, this large amusement park has a huge selection of water and land rides. There are specific attractions like Caterpillar Village suitable for the littlest ones.It’s a dedicated family fun destination that operates every day, ensuring availability for the weekend.
: Explore this heritage museum housed in a 19th-century palace complex. It is especially good for families because it also features a deer park and a dedicated children's park within the grounds.It blends history with dedicated kid zones, making it educational and fun for younger siblings.
FREE : Visit this serene nature retreat located right in the city, serving as a nesting ground for various migratory birds. It's a great spot for a quiet nature walk with the kids.It is a free, dedicated nature zone operating throughout the weekend, perfect for a short educational trip.
FREE : Enjoy beautiful views of the backwaters from this well-maintained urban park. It has a dedicated children's play area, making it an easy spot for downtime.It is completely free to enter and has specific amenities for children, ideal for a budget-friendly evening stroll.
FREE : Explore the charming seaside area known for its multicultural history. You can watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action and see St. Francis Church.The Chinese fishing nets operate daily, providing a unique visual spectacle that kids and adults enjoy watching.
: This palace features stunning 17th and 18th-century murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It’s a very short walk from Jew Town for a combined outing.At only 5 rupees, this is an incredibly affordable cultural experience that provides visual stories for older children.
FREE : Wander through the narrow streets lined with antique shops and collectibles near the Paradesi Synagogue. It’s a fascinating contrast to the rest of the city.Since the Paradesi Synagogue is likely closed on Saturday, exploring the unique shops of Jew Town remains a great family activity.
: This massive mall has a children's park area reviewers loved, plus bowling and ice skating for older kids. It’s the perfect indoor destination for Saturday.It offers guaranteed indoor fun, essential if the weather doesn't cooperate for outdoor festival plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Kochi this weekend?
This weekend (Mar 14-15) you can enjoy free family time at Subhash Bose Park, exploring the historic Fort Kochi area and watching the Chinese fishing nets, or take a walk through the free Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary.
What is the best full-day event for kids this weekend?
The Gems Kids Fest at Gopinath Gardens is the standout full-day option, featuring over 25 live shows including science, superheroes, and storytelling specifically for children.
Are there any arts and crafts activities available for children?
Yes, several workshops are running at Cochin Palace on Saturday, March 14th, including Perfume Making Workshop - Kochi, Mandala Art - Kochi, Japanese Shibori Workshop - Kochi, and Japanese Kintsugi Workshop - Kochi.
