Alright Melburnians, ditch the screens! This weekend (Jan 3-4) is prime summer holiday time and we've found some gems before school kicks back in. Forget the usual suspects; we’re keen to check out the Library on the Lawn for some free chilled-out fun and maybe even squeeze in a session at Scienceworks before the Tinkertown exhibition packs up on the 26th. Let’s get out there!
Quick Picks
Library on the Lawn
State Library Victoria
Jumbo puzzles, parachute play, and Storytime happening right on the State Library's forecourt.
Scienceworks General Entry
Scienceworks (Museums Victoria)
Perfect indoor escape with hands-on science, the Planetarium, and the Lightning Room to explore.
Library on the Lawn
State Library Victoria
Dedicated Storytime sessions and parachute play make it ideal for toddlers and preschoolers.
Library on the Lawn
The State Library's forecourt turns into an imagination playground this month, perfect for a low-key morning. Expect Storytime for the little ones (bring the favourite teddy!) and a giant bubble dance party to burn some energy.
Why we picked it: It's a genuinely free, central city event that's perfect for shaking off the post-Christmas lull.
Scienceworks General Entry (Tinkertown Exhibition)
Scienceworks is always great, but you need to get in before the *Tinkertown* exhibition closes on Jan 26th! They often have free live science shows in the amphitheatre too, so check the schedule when you arrive.
Why we picked it: It's an excellent rainy day option and the *Tinkertown* exhibition is ending soon (Jan 26th).
LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition
This is your sign to finally get to the *LEGO Star Wars* exhibit—it finishes up on Jan 26th! Seeing those four-metre-tall brick creations is wild, and there are always hands-on building bits for the kids.
Why we picked it: It's one of the last weekends to catch this massive, impressive exhibition before it closes forever.
Summer Carnival at Mordialloc
If you're feeling like a proper summer carnival vibe, this is it—rides, sideshow games like laughing clowns, and of course, the essential showbags (think Paw Patrol or Cadbury). It's a classic, slightly nostalgic day out by the bay.
Why we picked it: It’s a seasonal, slightly retro carnival feel that screams summer holidays, located slightly out of the main tourist loop.
O'Brien Icehouse Public Skating
Yes, ice skating in January! This is the ultimate antidote to a hot Melbourne summer day, and they often have free introductory lessons if you get in early. Older kids love the 'Bumperballs on Ice' if available.
Why we picked it: It's a hilariously out-of-season activity that provides instant relief from the summer heat.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre - Minifigure Madness
If you're braving Chadstone, the kids can get a FREE Minifigure with their ticket right now, which is a bonus! It’s climate-controlled, so it's a decent escape from the heat while the little ones enjoy the DUPLO farm.
Why we picked it: The promise of a free Minifigure is a great bribe for younger kids, and it's one of the few dedicated toddler-friendly indoor spaces.
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
When it’s truly scorching, nothing beats the cold tanks and dark tunnels here. The kids love walking under the sharks and rays—it feels like a proper escape from the heatwave.
Why we picked it: Reliable, central, and a fantastic way to get the kids to willingly enter a sub-zero environment in January.
Blue Lotus Water Garden School Holiday Activities
This is a bit of a drive out east, but it’s a stunning 14-acre garden showcasing incredible flowers and they run special fairy appearances and magic shows over the holidays. Perfect for a quieter day trip away from the city buzz.
Why we picked it: A genuinely beautiful local spot that feels like a proper escape and often hosts lower-key, charming entertainment.
Library on the Lawn
Take a picnic blanket and settle in for some relaxed Sunday fun on the grass. They usually have jumbo puzzles and parachute play, which is perfect for getting the little ones moving without a massive commitment.
Why we picked it: A perfect, no-cost, low-stress way to spend a Sunday morning in the city for the under-5 crowd.
Scienceworks General Entry (Tinkertown Exhibition)
If the weather turns, head west to Scienceworks for their interactive exhibits and maybe catch a show at the Planetarium. Don't forget to check out the *Tinkertown* exhibition while it’s still on!
Why we picked it: It's a hands-on indoor destination perfect for tackling any unexpected January downpours.
Sunset Safari
Werribee Zoo's Sunset Safari series is running, offering an evening wildlife experience after the main crowds leave. It's a magical time to see the animals and learn about conservation efforts as the day cools down.
Why we picked it: It's a unique, seasonal evening event that lets you experience the zoo when it's much cooler and more active.
Game Worlds at ACMI
Teens will love this deep dive into 50+ years of video games, featuring classics like *Minecraft* and *The Sims*. They’ve got exclusive new microgames made by Aussie devs, so it’s pretty cutting edge.
Why we picked it: It’s cool, interactive gaming history that actually appeals to tweens and teens during the holidays.
Stargazing at Melbourne Observatory
Escape the daytime sun and book an evening session to look through historic telescopes at the southern sky. It’s surprisingly magical and a real local gem you forget is even there.
Why we picked it: A truly unique, non-theme-park experience run by local enthusiasts, perfect for a quieter Sunday evening.
Midsumma Carnival Launch
The Midsumma festival is kicking off with a massive free carnival launch day full of music and stalls. It's a huge, fun, vibrant part of Melbourne culture and a great way to soak up the summer festival atmosphere for free.
Why we picked it: It's the official launch of a major city festival and it's completely free for the whole family to attend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Melbourne this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 03-04) the best genuinely free options are the Library on the Lawn at the State Library Victoria, featuring Storytime and parachute play, and the Midsumma Carnival Launch which kicks off the festival with free music and stalls.
Where can we go if it rains on Saturday?
If the weather turns, head to Scienceworks in Spotswood; it's fully indoors and you can explore interactive science, catch a show, and see the Tinkertown exhibition before it leaves on January 26th.
What's best for the under-5s this weekend?
The Library on the Lawn at the State Library is fantastic for little ones, with dedicated Storytime sessions and parachute play throughout January. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is also tailored for the 3-10 age group, offering hands-on building fun.