Discover the AWESOME Festival
Since 1996, the AWESOME International Arts Festival for Bright Young Things has been Western Australia’s premier children’s arts event. Running annually during the September school holidays, it transforms the Perth Cultural Centre into a vibrant hub of theatre, dance, music, workshops and storytelling.
This year’s program features over 20 productions and activities designed for children aged 0-12. Highlights include ballet story time, hands-on creative workshops, First Nations storytelling and innovative sensory experiences. Many events are free, ensuring all families can access world-class arts experiences.
Meet Lockie the City Dog
The City’s very own famous pup, Lockie, is the star of a special storytime session with author Sandra Ruddle. Children will hear how Lockie spreads joy through the streets of Perth before joining in a fun craft activity to take home, ideal for children aged 3 to 8.
Pokémon and pizza at the Nostalgia Box
On Friday 4 October, Australia’s first video game console museum will host Pokémon and Pizza Day. Families can enjoy an afternoon of Pokémon-themed gaming fun while refuelling with pizza at the unique and quirky Nostalgia Box. Perfect for little gamers - and big kids at heart!
Walk among dinosaurs
Following global success with over a million tickets sold worldwide, Dinos Alive has roared into Perth. This interactive adventure invites families to step back in time and walk among more than 80 life-sized dinosaurs!
Get creative at Hatched
As part of Awesome Festival, PICA has transformed its inclusive community space into the PICA Lab as part of the Hatched exhibition.
The space invites visitors of all ages to explore light, motion and creativity through playful, mark-making tools. Every Saturday from 12 - 3pm, free drop-in sessions give families a chance to try new techniques, chat with artists and enjoy the simple joy of slow, mindful making.
Plus, you’ll find even more FREE spring fun at the City of Perth Library:
Holiday Craft
Visit the City of Library daily for fun craft activities throughout the school holidays.
Make Plastic Fantastic
This workshop will create a new life for unloved and broken jewellery. You'll learn basic beading techniques and use them to remix a statement piece of your design from a treasure trove of thrifted, donated and unwanted beaded pieces.
Stage Makeup with WA Opera
Let the expert team from the West Australian Opera teach your minis how to create realistic stage makeup in this workshop. From horrifying wounds to compelling characters, prepare a ghastly look to try out this Halloween.
Reptile Encounters
Meet our scaly friends from Critters up Close. In this hands-on educational experience, kids will have the opportunity to learn about, hold and get a photo with some of Australia’s most fascinating reptiles.
From dinosaurs to dogs, art to arcade games, the City is bursting with activities to keep the kids entertained these school holidays. Whether you’re looking for a free creative workshop or a big family day out, the City has a mix of fun, learning and adventure.
