Darwin June July School holidays 2026

Are you ready for our Darwin June July School holidays 2026? School holidays start Saturday 20th June to Monday 13th July (for Darwin public schools, private and independent school holidays may be slightly different – please check with your school). Students will return to school for Term 3 on Tuesday 14th July (public schools).

Darwin Family Life has rounded up some of the fantastic options that are free (or affordable) activities to do with your kids these Darwin June July School holidays 2026.

June July School Holidays

Wonders of the World – The Brickman

In a Territory first, the Darwin Convention Centre is hosting the incredible Wonders of the World made entirely of LEGO®. You will have plenty of time to ‘travel the world’ in this interactive exhibition, featuring more than 45 incredible creations reimagining some of the most iconic landmarks on the world map such as The Great Barrier Reef, Taj Mahal, Empire State Building, Arc De Triomphe and many more. Wonders of the World by The Brickman will be open until 18 July and is a fully interactive experience featuring six hands-on play zones for visitors of all ages.

Build your own creations, race LEGO vehicles and contribute to collaborative builds alongside masterpieces designed and constructed by The Brickman team of expert model builders and craftspeople. Book your tickets here

Live at the Library – Friday 19^th June

Friday Night Fun at the Palmerston Library from 5:3opm to 7:30pm! Looking for the perfect way to wind down your week? Enjoy the performance from talented local musician Adam Scriven bringing good vibes and great tunes — the perfect soundtrack while you wander through the markets or take a break from the crowds. Soak up the atmosphere, this is your chance to slow down, settle in, and enjoy something a little different. Have a seat, stay awhile, and let the music set the mood for your Friday night.

Stories in Sound – Saturday 20th June

A magical morning of music and storytelling is coming to the Palmerston library from 10:30am on Saturday 20th of June! Join in for a special community performance by the Young Artist Ensemble, featuring 16 talented young musicians from Years 5–12. As part of this unique Storytime experience, students will perform original compositions and live music inspired by picture books, bringing stories to life through sound and creativity. Perfect for families and young readers, this collaborative performance celebrates imagination, storytelling, and the incredible talent of our local young artists.

Darwin Pride Festival – Family Fun day – Saturday 20th June

Get ready for the most joyful day on the annual Pride Family Fun Day, a massive, free community celebration filled with love, laughter, and Pride in the Top End. Happening on Saturday 20th of June in Bicentennial Park The Esplanade from 10am to 3:30pm. There will be a smoking ceremony, Welcome to Country, live entertainment, community market stalls, creative kids’ activities, and health and wellbeing hubs. Pack the sunscreen, grab a leash for your furry best friend, and make some beautiful memories together at this community event in a safe and inclusive space.

Wave Lagoon – open daily

Catch a wave at Darwin’s coolest Waterfront attraction, the Wave Lagoon. A palm-fringed swimming pool turns into a tube-riding, bucket of fun when the siren signals the start of the swell. Open daily, 10am – 6pm. A Family pass (max 2 adults & 3 children) for $25, or individual tickets: under 3 years FREE, under 15 years $6, 15 years and over $8 or FREE for Darwin Waterfront members – buy an annual membership here and get unlimited wave pool access for the year plus loads more benefits!

Corrugated Iron – various workshops and dates

Corrugated Iron is hosting a a wide variety of FREE action-packed workshops in Palmerston, that are perfect for anyone who wants to try something different, have fun, make new friends and get seriously creative. Plus, their popular full-day drama and performance-making workshop, Play in a Day, is back! Into Circus, Drama, Music, Aerial and Hip Hop Dance? We have the perfect workshop waiting for you. To find out more and enrol, click the link here

Reading is an Adventure with Andy Griffiths – Saturday 20^th June

Don’t miss Andy Griffiths! Free family friendly event for Ages 5–12 years and families at Casuarina Library from 4pm to 5pm on Saturday 20th June. Meet the 2026–27 Australian Children’s Laureate as he brings his ‘Reading is an Adventure’ tour to the NT. Best known for the Treehouse series and the new Let’s Go books, Andy delivers a high-energy, interactive session filled with humour, creativity, and fun for the whole family. Stay after to meet Andy, with book sales and signings available. Presented by Casuarina Library in partnership with the Australian Children’s Laureate.

India at Mindil – Saturday 20^th June

India at Mindil is on Saturday 20 June 2026 from 4pm at Mindil Beach. This free community event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Indian culture with friends and family, enjoy delicious food, and experience vibrant cultural performances at one of Darwin’s most iconic locations. Bring your loved ones along and be part of a fantastic evening of culture, community and celebration.

Chinese Festival – Saturday 20th June

Experience the magic of Chinese culture and join us for a spectacular evening of traditional performances, music, and food. Head down to the Darwin Waterfront on Saturday 20th of June from 4pm to 8pm on the Peninsula Lawns and Palm Grove. The stage will be filled with mesmerising cultural dance shows, traditional music and live performances from a visiting artist Troupe from Inner Mongolia. Don’t miss this vibrant community celebration, whether you are part of the Chinese community or just interested in learning more. This is a FREE family friendly event, open to everyone.

Gaslit at Sunset – Sunday 21^st June

The Gaslit Festival finale. And it’s free! Closing out Gaslit the Darwin way – on the grass at Sunset Park in Nightcliff from 4pm to 7pm as the sun goes down over the water. Live music from Alice Cotton, Emma Stocker and more to be announced, face painting, banner painting, corflute making, community stalls and a Frack Free NT giveaway. Bring your family, bring your mates, bring the neighbour’s dog. This is what winning the fight for our future looks like – a bunch of good people who give a damn about the Territory, all in the same place at the same time. Free entry! RSVP here

Gateway Superhero School – From Monday 22nd June

Calling all superhero fans! Join the Gateway Superhero School and create amazing costumes and accessories fit for saving the world. Design your very own comic, take photos at our photo booth, then put your detective skills to the test! Test your speed and complete the mission to WIN thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes. Prizes include double passes to Event Cinemas, over 100 passes to play all day at Skalliwagz, and so much more. Located outside BIG W at Gateway shopping Centre. Three weeks of Absolute fun starting Monday, 22 June!

Session Times: 10am – 10:40am, 11am – 11:40am, 12pm – 12:40pm, 1pm – 1:40pm

No booking required, just turn up.

City of Palmerston Library – Monday 22nd June to Friday 10th July

Looking for some free fun activities to do for the school holidays? City of Palmerston have you covered. They offer a range of activities, crafts, entertainment, movies, magic shows, disco, animal encounters and more at the library these school holidays. All sessions are free, start at 10am to 11:30am, aimed at children aged 5-12yrs. Bookings are required for groups of 5 or more.

Litchfield Community Library – Monday 22nd June to Friday 10th July

Looking for some free fun activities to do for the school holidays? There is a range of activities happening at Litchfield Community Library (located at Coolalinga Central 425 Stuart Highway) from Minecraft sessions, movies, craft, bracelet weaving, painting, treasure hunt, borrow a science discovery box and more! Note bookings required for all activities, call the library on 8988 1200 or book via Eventbrite

Surf and Sail – Monday 22nd June

Surf Lifesaving NT and Darwin Sailing Club are hosting a FREE Come and Try – Surf lifesaving nippers and junior sailing for kids ages 6 to 17yrs. Happening on Monday 22nd June at Lake Alexander – 1pm to 3pm. No registrations required.

Surf and Survive – Tuesday 23rd June

Surf life saving NT are hosting the Surf and Survive session at Lake Alexander on Tuesday 23rd June. From 9:30am to 11:30am for kids aged 7 to 16yrs. Fun, engaging program teaching kids water safety, first aid, boosting skills and water confidence. Free event but registrations required here

Feel Good Factory (Hip Hop and Break Dance) – Tuesday 23rd June

Learn hip-hop dance with B-Girl Nat and B-Boy Ricky high-energy, all levels welcome, snacks included! Hosted by Corrugated Iron Youth Arts and happening on Tuesday 23rd June at Palmerston Recreation Centre from 11am – 12:30pm. For kids aged 7 to 11yrs. Free event but registrations required. Contact 08 8948 3200 email: csc@corrugatediron.org.au

The Playshack – school holiday events

Deckchair Cinema Scooby Doo -Wednesday 24th June

City of Darwin’s LAUNCH program has teamed up with the crew at the stunning Deckchair Cinema for another epic school holiday movie. Mystery Inc. has gone their separate ways, but a strange invitation brings Scooby, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne and Velma back together for a new case on a tropical island resort. What begins as a flashy theme-park investigation soon becomes a colourful adventure filled with spooky creatures, comic chaos and the possibility that this mystery may be more supernatural than expected. Gates open 5:45pm, movie starts 7pm. FREE for ages 12-25!
*Attendees outside the age range are welcome but will need to purchase a ticket.

Bookings are essential and can be done via the Deckchair website or this link

Youth First Aid – Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th June

Surf Lifesaving NT are hosting FREE sessions in First Aid for 13-17yr olds. Gain Accredited First Aid & CPR qualifications. Attendance at both days required to complete qualification. Sessions being held 9am – 1pm on Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th June at 16 De Latour St, Coconut Grove. You will need a USI (unique student identifier) to complete this course. Registrations required and spots limited – register here

Kids cooking + Art classes – various dates

From Art, cake/biscuit decorating, pizza, bread and donuts to mindful methods, Darwin Adult Short courses have a range of classes and workshops these June July School holidays for kids – book cooking classes here. There are also Montessori art classes in the school holidays (more info below – head here to book). Limited spots in all classes.

darwin adult short courses

Be-Inclusive games – Community Fun Day – Friday 26th June

Head down to the Darwin Waterfront on Friday 26th June from 10am to 2pm for a FREE fun filled family fun day all ages event! Organised by The Clubhouse Project and proudly supported by TRACKS Care, this event brings together sport, music, activities, and community in one big celebration of inclusion. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with the Darwin community, showcase what you do, and be part of something genuinely fun and inclusive. Come and try different activities like hockey, baseball, touch football, table tennis, basketball, jumping castles, chess and more. This is a FREE family friendly event, open to everyone and to all abilities.

DJ and Mentoring workshops – Friday 26^th June, Friday 3^rd July

City of Palmerston Library, in partnership with Dream Impact Inspire, presents free DJ and mentoring workshops for young people on Friday market nights from 5pm to 7pm. These sessions are designed to discover and support the next generation of DJs in the NT. Participants will develop practical DJ skills, connect with experienced mentors, and gain support to reach their full potential in a creative and positive environment.

Gaming after dark – Friday 26^th June

Gaming After Dark is a safe, action-packed and inclusive place for young people aged 12-17 to hang out with friends, play casual setups and compete in low stakes esports competitions. Happening at Casuaring Library (entry via the courtyard) on Friday 26th June – 6:30pm to 8:30pm. 100% FREE including snacks – no bookings required! Gaming after dark is a regular event that runs the last Friday of each month till November 2026.

Kindness Festival – Saturday 27th June

Now in its 6th year, Kindness Festival continues to be Darwin’s signature celebration of culture, community, and diversity. Head to the Darwin Waterfront on Saturday 27th June from 4pm to 9pm. A FREE, family-friendly festival celebrating culture, kindness, and community through food, music, performances, and shared experiences. Everyone is welcome.

Photo credit – George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

Botanic Gardens Water play – every weekend

Head down to the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens between 10am and 11:30am every Saturday and Sunday the creek at the kids playground is running. Let the kids enjoy nature and some water play

Monster Village – From Saturday 27th June

Monster Village is coming to Darwin Festival Laws from 27 June – 4 July with giant inflatables, obstacle courses, water slides, and heaps of fun for kids (and adults too) Located at Festival Lawns, (16 Mitchell St) Sessions are 30-minute daily. Tickets from $13 online | Bundles available
Parents/carers supervising enter FREE. Great school holiday activity for the whole family! Book here

Geek up – Sunday 28^th June

Geek Up is a FREE event for young people held on the last Sunday of the month at Casuarina Library. It includes: art workshops with Darwin Emerging Creatives, Dungeons & Dragons, Board Games. PLUS a DIY toastie station! Geek up is happening at Casuarina Library from 1pm to 4pm. Geek up is a regular event happening on the last Sunday of each month till November.

PLEASE NOTE: Geek Up has been created by young people for young people as a space for young people to connect with their peers. It is recommended for ages 15-25. Young people a year or two younger are welcome to attend provided they can self manage/regulate. The majority of attendees are over 18 so conversations between participants may include adult language and topics of conversation.

Zone 3 – Unlimited Laser tag and free arcades

Book in a session with our friends at Zone 3! these school holidays you can book an hour pass for just $15 per person for 1hr, or $25 per person for 2hrs, includes unlimited laser tag and arcades. My kids love heading here during the school holidays (or for birthday parties!). To book head here

Territory Day – Wednesday 1st July

Bring down a picnic to watch an impressive display of fireworks at Darwin Waterfront Peninsula lawns this Territory Day! Fireworks will start from 8pm. Please note personal fireworks are not allowed at the Darwin Waterfront.

Secret Art- Youth Visual Arts Exhibition – from Friday 3^rd July

An annual showcase of new unreleased works by visual artists aged 12-25, Secret Art reflects the incredible talent brewing around Darwin and beyond. The official opening is on Friday July 3rd from 5.30pm. No registration required, this event is free to attend and family friendly. Content warnings: Works may contain difficult subjects and warnings will be supplied as work is confirmed. This event is made possible thanks to the support of The Department of Youth, Darwin Emerging Creatives, LAUNCH Darwin and Darwin Community Arts.

Palmerston Youth Festival – Saturday 4th to Friday 10th July

Get ready for seven huge days of free events, competitions, prizes and unforgettable experiences. From gaming and cosplay to sport, creativity, music and more, Palmerston Youth Festival 2026 is packed with something for everyone! From Geekfest, inflate a’maze, paint and create, a massive day of hands-on science, technology, engineering and creativity, NAIDOC celebrations, sports carnival and soooo much more! Some workshops and activities require bookings. For all the details head here

Top End Bull Spectacular – Saturday 4th July

Gear up for a one-of-a-kind rodeo where bulls buck on the coast as the sun sets on Saturday 4th of July, from 5pm to 11pm. Rodeo Promotions is returning to Fort Hill Parkland for a wild ride of fearless cowboys, live music, food, and a good time. Ticketed event.

Family Fun Day – Sunday 5th of July

Water bouncy castle, face painting, games, music, chaos and a Sunday that keeps the little ones busy while parents finally enjoy some peace. Head to the Darwin Trailer Boat club for a Family Fun Day full of activities, laughs and good vibes for the whole family. Happening every first Sunday of the month, from 11am

Music Workshops – various dates

Musicking Maestros are running various instrument workshops and music sessions for all ages. Keyboard, Guitar, Strings, Drums, singing, woodwind, family music classes and more! For all the details and to book your child in head here

FREEZE skate – Thursday 9th July

Grab your warmest winter woollies and chill out at Darwin’s only ice rink! Don’t forget to bring your socks! FREE-ze Skate is exclusively for ages 12-20. Registration is essential for this FREE event as spaces are limited. FREE-ze Skate is a drug and alcohol free event, this includes tobacco and vapes. Visit here for more info and how to register!

Columbian Festival – Saturday 11th July

Viva Colombia Fest is back and bigger than ever! Hosted by Colombian Association NT, come down for an unforgettable celebration of Colombian culture in the heart of Darwin. Expect food, performances, family activities, and crafts.

The SHAK Youth Hub

Drop in at the SHAK during the school holidays! Various FREE activities on offer from 12pm to 8pm daily, snacks provided, located at Sanderson High School.

Palmerston Youth Drop in Centre

Palmerston Youth Space offers a safe hangout with daily activities like baking, crafts and waterpark days. Located at 31 Tilston Avenue Moulden.

Youth Drop in Sports – various dates in June

At Palmerston Recreation Centre, on various dates (Friday 19th to Tuesday 30th June) 3pm to 5pm Monday to Thursdays and Friday is 5pm till 9pm. For 10 to 17 yr olds. It’s all FREE: Hoops & games Snacks & WiFi Chill vibes only No pressure, just fun. Come hang out, play, and vibe with them. Hosted by Palmerston and Regional Basketball Association.

City of Darwin – Fun in the Parks and Libraries

Looking for exciting ways to keep the kids active and entertained these school holidays? Fun in the Parks is a free outdoor program filled with games, laughter and community spirit, perfect for children and families! Join in every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the school holidays (excluding public holidays) for a morning of fun in our beautiful local parks. Everyone is welcome. Just drop in and be part of the fun. Check out the Fun in the parks schedule and City of Darwin Library activities events here

Leanyer Recreation Park

Another great option to keep the kids busy and cool these Darwin June July School holidays is to visit Leanyer Recreation park. It is a FREE water recreation park located at 215 Vanderlin Drive Leanyer. The Park consists of dry and wet recreational areas. The wet area includes a swimming lagoon (shallow in many areas – great for toddlers and young children), three massive water slides for the older kids. There are large, grassed areas for play, BBQ’s, a dry playground, skate park and basketball courts. The Park has lots of shaded areas including over the pool, the wet play area, the skate park and the grassed areas. There are toilets and change room facilities.

Opening hours during the school holidays are:

Park from 9am

Wet Play & Lagoon from 10am

Slides from 11am

Park closes at 6pm

Palmerston Water Park

Palmerston Water Park is the second water park in Darwin. It also FREE and open seven days a week. Located at Cnr University Ave and Roystonea Ave (access via Roystonea Ave). The water park includes a 14 metre high – 100 metre long – six-line racer water slide, a wet play area for families and toddlers featuring sprays, water curtains and a shallow wading pool. Another wet play area for teenagers featuring more active water cannons, buckets and high intensity interactive play, a café, toilets and change room facilities, open grassed play area with BBQs, shaded areas and a skate park. ** please note that only 2 lanes will be open currently**

Opening hours during the school holidays are:

Park from 9am

Wet Play from 10am

Slides from 11am

Park closes at 6pm

We hope you enjoyed reading this blog and have fun in the June July School holidays 2026. Wishing you and your family a safe and fun holiday season!

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June July School Holidays

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