School Holiday Activities in Brisbane for September

Updated just in time for the September school holidays, we have listed everything that you and your kids can enjoy this spring break.

Note: State schools finish on Friday 13 September 2024 and return to class on Monday 30 September 2024. So the spring school holidays in Brisbane are Saturday 14 September 2024 to Sunday 29 September 2024.

Check our ‘What’s On’ calendar too: I have also compiled a bunch of ideas on our ‘What’s On’ calendar of school holiday events for a day to day list of things to do on the school holidays that your kids will love!

Here are my local area holiday guides to use if you just want something super local to you. Or, if you are keen to stretch your wings these holidays, DO read this article to the bottom with a huge range of ideas!

Choose your school holiday events by area:

• Northside free school holiday activities
• Southside free school holiday activities
• School holiday activities Moreton Bay
• Logan school holiday activities
• Ipswich school holiday activities

Choose your school holiday events by activity:

• Local library events
• Brisbane shopping centre school holiday activities
• Kids movies OUT NOW – read our reviews
• Tween and teen school holiday activities
• School holiday ideas for animal lovers
• Swimming pools around Brisbane
• Holiday programs for childcare options

Ideas for stops on the train for a ‘half day out:’

Perhaps you want to jump on a train to see a new stop with a playground and cafe or library. We took a tonne of train rides and wrote up what you can do at each stop.

• Caboolture Line
• Shorncliffe Line
• Ferny Grove Line
• City Stations
• Beenleigh Line
• Gold Coast Line

Theatre & shows for kids in Brisbane in the September school holidays

We love, love, LOVE going to the theatre with our kids! Here is what’s on these school holidays at the local theatres in Brisbane!

Fancy Long Legs | La Boite Theatre

“Fancy Long Legs” is a vibrant new musical adventure for children, based on a picture book by Brisbane’s own tinsel and craft icon, Rachel Burke. The story follows Fancy, a creative spider on a journey of self-discovery as she struggles to focus on building her web. With the help of her friends, Fancy finds her unique style and learns to create something truly special.

This groundbreaking show is fully accessible and designed to be inclusive for young audiences and the young at heart. Each performance is relaxed, with flexible venue access, ambient lighting, sensory warnings, and low-sensory spaces. Select performances also feature Auslan interpretation, audio description, and tactile tours, ensuring a welcoming and safe theatre experience for everyone. Find out more here.

The Quizzical Mr Jeff | Logan Entertainment Centre

Mr. Jeff is an entertainment specialist celebrated for his charismatic showmanship, inviting stage presence, and engaging performance style. With extensive experience on international stages and in the circus ring, he has perfected the art of transporting audiences into a realm of wonder and play.

In this visually stunning blend of circus and magic, Jeff navigates a mysterious room brimming with marvels—imagine ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’ meets Charlie Chaplin. Employing novelty and circus skills, he crafts moments of humour and captivating imagery. Highlights of his performance include a bottle that seems to have a mind of its own, a mind-boggling hoops act, and a flying cane that defies the laws of gravity. Find out more here.

The Beanies | Multiple Locations

Get ready to groove with The Beanies in their brand new live show, “Big Beanie Boogie,” hitting the stage with boundless energy and interactive fun. Designed to get the whole family, especially the Mini Beanies, up on their feet, this concert turns musical joy into a vibrant, dance-filled experience.

Bringing the best dance hits from ABC Kids TV to life, The Beanies will perform favourites like “Groovy Train” and “Power,” along with their latest track, “Funky Feet.” With a kaleidoscope of unforgettable tunes and infectious energy, this show promises a dazzling fusion of laughter, song, and dance that’s sure to have everyone boogieing the day away.

• Redland Performing Arts Theatre: 23 September
• Brisbane Powerhouse: 24 September
• Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct: 25 September

Spot – Live in Brisbane | QUT Gardens Theatre

Spot, the beloved puppy from Eric Hill’s cherished books, is returning to Australia, much to the delight of his fans. This time, Spot and his friends embark on a thrilling journey to visit Spot’s Dad on the farm. When they arrive, they discover that all the farm animals are missing. Spot, alongside his friends, must find them with a little bit of help from the audience.

The show promises to bring Eric Hill’s iconic character to life with vibrant puppetry, catchy songs, and engaging puzzles, making it a delightful experience for children aged 18 months and up, as well as their adults. Find out more here.

The Listies | Redlands Performing Arts Centre

For over a decade, the celebrated Listies have charmed audiences worldwide, bringing joy to “kidults”—a playful mix of kids and adults. Their latest comedy concert, “Make Some Noise!,” is a whimsical adventure for everyone aged 4 to 400 million (dinosaurs included). Join the hilarious duo, Rich and Matt, as they take the stage with side-splitting antics and songs that amplify the laughs to the max.

“Make Some Noise!” is a delightful auditory fiesta, inviting everyone to join the merriment. This show guarantees fun and laughter for the whole family. Find out more here.

The Gruffalo | QUT Gardens Theatre

Based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, this magical, musical adaptation invites children aged 3 and up and their families on an enchanting journey through the deep, dark wood. Join Mouse on a daring quest for hazelnuts as he encounters the cunning Fox, the quirky old Owl, and the party-loving Snake.

Will the tale of the terrifying Gruffalo help Mouse avoid becoming dinner? With songs, laughter, and just the right amount of scary fun, this show promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Find out more.

The Magnificent Bubble Show | Redcliffe Entertainment Centre

Everyone loves bubbles! See some of the most amazing bubbles imaginable, from tiny little specks to giants so big you could be enveloped by them! 

Witness a bubble volcano on your hand, space rocket bubbles, smoke bubbles and so much more! Bring the kids for an incredi-bubble time. Find out more here.

Room on the Broom | QUT

Based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, this delightful adaptation invites children aged 3 and up and their families to join the witch and her cat on a whimsical broomstick adventure. As they soar through the wind, a stormy gust blows away the witch’s hat, bow, and wand, prompting a helpful dog, bird, and frog to join the quest to retrieve them.

With the broomstick overloaded and a hungry dragon on the prowl, the story weaves a thrilling tale of friendship and bravery. Featuring songs, laughter, and just the right amount of scary fun, this production promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Find out more.

6 BIG days out in Brisbane – September school holidays

Looking for ways to make the most of the school holidays in Brisbane? Here are our top 5 favourite school holiday activities that will make for an amazing family day out this spring, without breaking the bank!

1. Victoria Park Golf Complex | Herston

Victoria Park is the ultimate destination for family fun during the school holidays! With a range of activities across the complex, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. Challenge yourself on the putt putt course, practice your swing at the driving range with views of the city, and then unwind at the Bistro, where you can enjoy alfresco dining and a seasonal menu. Be sure to book ahead!

The excitement doesn’t end there! Bistro diners can enjoy a free on-site kids’ playground, and on weekends, there’s a free giant games area featuring giant chess, giant Jenga, badminton, and more. Discover all the fun activities Victoria Park has to offer these school holidays. Click here to learn more about Victoria Park school holiday activities.

If you are looking for Council’s free Park Play activities, click here.

2. Circus Fun House | Hamilton

Join Ringmaster Francois and his talented international circus performers for an unforgettable adventure filled with music, comedy, dance, and jaw-dropping circus acts. Perfect for children of all ages, this reimagined circus experience promises to captivate and delight. They have 10 Circus Fun House shows over the QLD school holiday period.

School holiday show dates:

• Friday 13th September: 6:30pm – 8pm
• Saturday 14th September: 11:30am – 1pm
• Thursday 19th September: 11:30am – 1pm
• Friday 20th September: 11:30am – 1pm
• Friday 20th September: 6:30pm – 8pm
• Saturday 21st September: 11:30am – 1pm
• Thursday 26th September: 11:30am – 1pm
• Friday 27th September: 11:30am – 1pm
• Friday 27th September: 6:30pm – 8pm
• Saturday 28th September: 11:30am – 1pm

Don’t miss out on this magical school holiday experience – book now!

3. Lightscape | Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Reimagined for 2024, the globally renowned Lightscape phenomenon of light, colour and sound returns during Brisbane Festival to dazzle visitors with all-new lightworks and installations by local and international artists.

Visitors can experience these incredible premiere works and more as they embark on a multi-sensory journey through light, colour and sound along a 2km self-guided trail through Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens. The technicolour wonderland will take visitors of all ages beneath towering tree canopies illuminated in colour, alongside larger-than-life flowers and through dynamic, glowing tunnels.

Presented by Sony Music Entertainment as part of Brisbane Festival 2024, Lightscape reveals moments of wonder and beauty to share with everyone.

• Session times: Every 15 mins from 5.45pm until late
• Duration: Allow 90 minutes for the experience
• Tickets: $24 – $58
• Book: Click here

4. Dopamine Land | Brisbane City

Dopamine Land is a multisensory experience in Brisbane that combines media, technology and play in one place. It’s an interactive museum made up of colourful installations that channel the limitless imagination of your inner child into reality. Take a break from your everyday life, have some fun, take some photos and boost your happy emotions! Grab all the details here.

5. SparkLab at the Sciencentre | South Brisbane

The Sciencentre is located on Level 1 of the Queensland Museum. They have permanent and changing exhibitions and your Brisbane Family can be very hands on to learn more about science. You can play and investigate your way through SparkLab, using lots of the same skills that scientists, engineers and mathematicians use in their everyday.  SparkLab is a timed entry experience. Choosing your preferred time will reduce waiting times and provide an enjoyable experience for all visitors. 

6. Archie Brothers | Bowen Hills

We tried out the brand new Archie Brothers venue at Bowen Hills last week and hoooo boy we had fun!! Packed full of arcade games, virtual reality rides, bowling lanes as well as yummy food and drinks, this is a serious contender for our favourite thing to do these school holidays. If you want to see how we went on the rides and what the food looks like, check out our Facebook post here. We loved it!

We have a list of all the awesome things you can do in Brisbane with your family right here.

10 fun CHEAP school holiday activities

Looking for an affordable day out? Here are five fun school holiday activities your kids will LOVE, all for under fifteen dollars per child! We have tried all of these cheap school holiday ideas so they are Families Magazine approved. Check out these five budget-friendly activities to keep the fun rolling during the September holidays.

1. Rainbow City Playcentre | Underwood, Browns Plains and Logan City

Designed for maximum fun for kids under 8, Rainbow City Playcentre offers jumping castles, big play structures and soft play mats to engage and entertain the little ones.

Their cafe serves healthy and light meals, making this is a great environment for the whole family.

Locations: Underwood, Browns Plains and Logan City. See the website for addresses.
Cost: $8 per child and adults get free entry with our special deal.
Website: Check out their prices here.

2. Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium | Mt Coot-tha

If your little ones are interested in all things astronomical, then this is my pick for fun things to do in the school holidays with them. You can view regular shows in the Cosmic Skydome which are projected onto the dome. These shows are recommended for different age groups, so check that detail when deciding which show to go to. There is also the Galaxy Gift Shop where you can buy all things cosmic.

Opening hours:

• Monday, 10am-4pm (Queensland school holidays only)
• Tuesday to Thursday, 10am-4pm
• Friday, 10am-8pm (Queensland school term only)
• Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4pm.

It is closed on all public holidays and Mondays during Queensland school terms. General entry to the Planetarium is free. Charges apply for Cosmic Skydome shows.

They often host fun holiday activities for kids! Read our Planetarium review and check the website for opening times as they do vary. Find prices here.

3. Barefoot bowls | Banyo

Experience the joy of barefoot bowls at Banyo Bowls Club with friends and family. With this special deal you can enjoy 2 hours of fun-filled bowling action on the beautiful greens and stay refreshed with a choice of beer or soft beverage each.

Address: 207 Morayfield Road, Morayfield
Cost: $39 per family of four.
Website: Get the special deal here

4. SparkLab | South Bank

SparkLab is a permanent exhibition located within Queensland Museum.

Formerly known as the Sciencentre, SparkLab has heaps of incredible interactive STEM activities that are truly fascinating and mind-blowing!

Address: Cnr Stanley and Sidon Streets, South Brisbane (beneath the Goodwill Bridge)
Cost: $47.50 (2 adults + 2 kids or 1 adult + 3 kids)
Website: Bookings are recommended. Book here: SparkLab

5. Lyell Deer Sanctuary | Mount Samson

Just 30 minutes north of Brisbane is a peaceful haven where visitors can interact with friendly herds of Red, Rusa and Fallow Deer.

Visitors can enjoy a Devonshire Tea and other delicious treats in the Sanctuary Café before hand-feeding the deer, and there are deer-related souvenirs available to purchase in the gift shop. The sanctuary is open on Sat and Sun from 10am to 4pm, and on weekdays and holidays by appointment. No bookings are required to visit the sanctuary, just pop-in!

Address: 6 Lyell Court, Mount Samson
Cost: $25 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children (extra children in the family get in for $3 each).
Website: Find out more about Lyell Deer Sanctuary here.

6. Glow in the dark mini-golf | Caboolture

Your kids will love this Wild West themed glow-in-the-dark mini golf course, and it’s the perfect venue for rainy day round of indoor fun.

Caboolture Mini Golf is 9 holes played on a glow-in-the-dark course amidst a vibrant neon light show and a pop music party atmosphere. The course is just like the old carnival style courses with colourful characters and quirky scenery – it’s sure to be a hit!

Address: 207 Morayfield Road, Morayfield
Cost: $20 per family of four for two round (that’s two rounds for the price of one with our deal!)
Website: *Get the special deal here

7. Drive in | Yatala or Chuwar

Head to the Yatala Drive In Theatre or Tivoli Drive in Theatre for some old school family fun! Pack pillows, blankets, and some homemade snacks and drinks to make it a very affordable and fun evening for the family.

Address: 100 Jacobs Well Road, Stapylton (exit 38)
Cost: $40 for a car with up to 6 people.
Website: See what’s on

8. Naughty Little Kids | North Ipswich

Have you ever experienced a goat dairy farm tour? These little kids have big personalities, and will try to get into all sorts of mischief!

Every Sunday afternoon you can join one of the goat dairy farm tours, which go for about an hour. While on a tour you can pat and feed a baby goat, milk a goat by hand, watch a cheese making demonstration, learn all about goats, and taste some delicious goats milk gelati and cheese.

Address: North Street, North Ipswich
Cost: $50 for 2 adults and up to six kids!
Website: Visit Naughty Little Kids

9. Catch the latest movies at Cineplex

You might think a trip to the cinema is out of your budget, but Cineplex Cinemas are your budget-friendly friend. At Cineplex your family of four can see all the latest releases for under $50 and have change for snacks and drinks.

Families tip: Bookmark this article for all the trailers and info on the latest kids movies out now.

Locations: Balmoral, Hawthorne, South Bank, Victoria Point, Nerang, Redbank. See the website for addresses.
Cost: $36 per family of four ($10 per adult, $8 per child under 12, $9 per student 12+, children under 2 are free. Additional costs apply on public holidays and for 3D or Deluxe sessions).
Website: Cineplex

10. Bribie Island Butterfly House

The Bribie Island Butterfly House is a volunteer-run organisation open on Wednesdays and Sundays (including over the Christmas period) from 10am to 4pm. It offers families the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Mother Nature’s most beautiful little creatures.

You can see our video review here.

Address: 206B First Avenue, Bribie Island
Cost: $34 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children (extra children in the family get in for $7 each).
Website: See why you should visit Bribie Island Butterfly House here.

We have a list of 25 cheap family activities right here if you are looking for more ideas.

10 FREE things to do for September school holidays

The best things in life really are free! Check out the options for this September!

1. Skylore — The Rainbow Serpent

Due to popular demand and the success of last year’s Nieergoo: Spirit of the Whale, the spectacular three-dimensional multicolour drone show is back for another glittering performance.

With viewing from South Bank or Queen’s Wharf, 400 drones light up Brisbane’s iconic skyline, telling the captivating story of The Rainbow Serpent. This First Nations creation story for the Brisbane River, is brought to life through a beautifully choreographed drone performance. Skylore — The Rainbow Serpent is a must-see highlight of Brisbane Festival, offering a bright and bold celebration of our city, its culture, and its place. I wrote about drone shows here.

2. Museum of Brisbane & Clock Tower | Brisbane City

Spring into a brand new adventure every day of the week at Museum of Brisbane these school holidays! With a fun adventure available every single day of the week, there’s so much to see and do at MoB.

School holiday activities include:

• Gather up your little art lovers as you go on a special tour of their exhibition New Light: Photography Now + Then. Tailored exclusively for young, curious minds.
• For crafty teens, take an artist led workshop with Izzy Heaton and learn how to make your very own teen zine.
• Remix the Alfred Elliott collection into a piece of wearable art in Snip-Snap Badge Studio!
• Discover the art of photography in an exciting iPhone masterclass tailored for teens, led by the acclaimed artist Carl Warner!
• Write your heart out with their love-letter pop-up inspired by Trent Dalton’s Love Stories.
• Become a detective for the day with a fun game of Little Artist’s Eye Spy.
• Take a ride up the famous Clock Tower and see the city sights.

Dates and session times vary so check individual activities for more details.

3. Botanic Gardens playground | CBD

The Botanic Gardens Playground in Brisbane City offers a fantastic spot for families to enjoy a day out. Nestled within the lush surroundings of the City Botanic Gardens, this playground features a variety of equipment suitable for children of all ages. With its shaded areas, climbing structures, swings, and slides, it’s the perfect place for kids to burn off energy while parents relax in the beautiful natural setting. The nearby gardens provide plenty of space for picnics, leisurely strolls, and exploring, making it an ideal destination for a fun and peaceful family outing in the heart of Brisbane. We wrote about the city playgrounds here.

4. Queensland Museum | South Brisbane

We are so lucky to have the Museum on our doorstep. It houses permanent and changing exhibitions. It is a great place to teach the children about Queensland’s history. There are lots of hands on exhibits. Most of the Museum is free, although the visiting exhibits usually have an entrance fee.

Families tip: There is a family friendly café on the premises which is great for a quick coffee or lunch. It is pram friendly and a place where you can set your own pace. Opening hours are 9.30am – 5pm daily. Click here.

5. Queensland Gallery of Modern Art | South Brisbane

QAGOMA is also located in the Cultural Precinct of South Bank. It houses over 16 000 works of Modern Art. Entry to the Children’s Art Centre is free. Here you will find interactive installations, artist projects and activities for your Brisbane Family. The projects and activities change throughout the year to keep your little ones interested. There are different dining options to suit you from a café to a restaurant. Or do what we do and pack a picnic and sit in the lovely grounds that surround the Gallery. They are open daily from 10am – 5pm. Read our GOMA Review to find out more or go straight to the current exhibit here!

6. Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens | Mt Coot-tha

These Botanic Gardens are a favourite for my family. We either pack a picnic and enjoy it amongst the gardens, or visit the café for coffee or lunch. Have you checked out the hide and seek children’s trail, where your children can hunt for native bees, a crocodile, water dragons, dragonflies and other critters? I recommend it! You can easily head up Mt Coot-tha when you are finished in the gardens and let your children see Brisbane from a different perspective.

Families tip: While you’re in the area, we highly recommend a visit to the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium.

7. South Bank | South Brisbane

Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, South Bank is 17 acres of lush parkland full of play areas for children, eateries and an amazing lagoon and water park area. And best of all, you can use it all for free! We find it easy to spend a whole day here in the warmer months, playing in the water and exploring the play areas. The views are fantastic and the atmosphere happy! There is always something happening at South Bank and their Riverside Green playground is nothing short of spectacular. It gets busy though so my advice is to go early!

8. Daisy Hill Koala Reserve | Daisy Hill

Do your children love koalas? If so, this is the place to take them and it is all FREE! This dedicated Koala education facility has large koala enclosures and lots of interactive displays. There are two level boardwalks from which you can view the koalas. It is a great place for a picnic and opportunities for bush walking and spotting other critters and creatures. Open daily 10am – 4pm.

9. Take a ride on the CityHopper

Cruise the Brisbane River literally free! We wrote about his last time we did it on a Sunday here. Make a stop at New Farm Park for a picnic or hit the impressive playground with the kids then hop on a double-decker CityCat for the trip home – it’s got an upper deck with seating for 20, allowing you to admire Brisbane’s stunning skyline.

Families Tip: Kids travel free on weekends but on other days, just remember having a Go Card will make travel at least 30% cheaper than buying a paper ticket.  And remember the City Cat is good for kids!

10. State Library of Queensland | South Brisbane

The State Library of Queensland is a great place to visit with kids. Split across multiple levels, there are activities available for all ages. I love the free workshops including craft, STEM, music and performance. You can find out more about visiting here.  

We have a list of free northside school holiday activities and free southside school holiday activities too if you need more inspiration!

Over 100 at-home activities

There are so many ways to keep your kids entertained during the holidays. Take a look at these links for fun ideas as well as these 100 school holiday activities you can set up at home.

• List of boredom busters for kids – A list of over 20 things to do when there is “nothing to do”.
• Cinema at home –  You can still have that home cinema experience with streaming, downloads or online DVD orders. Take a look at our suggestions!
• Virtual museum tours – Visit 17 different museums across the world with a virtual tour!
• Go to virtual Disneyland – You can ride all the rides without queuing! Want to know how? Click the link!

More school holiday fun around Australia

We have lots of ideas for school holiday fun around Australia!

• Find the BEST list of things to do on the Gold Coast with kids here.
• Check out this list of things to do over the Sydney school holidays here.
• Find the BEST list of things to do over the Melbourne school holidays here.
• Check out this list of things to do over the Perth school holidays here.
• Find the BEST list of things to do over the Adelaide school holidays here.

Whatever you are doing, may your next school holiday activities be full of fun with the kids!