This article will give you a detailed list of things to do on Australia Day with kids in Brisbane and beyond.
Things to do on Australia Day with Kids 2020
There are so many things to do on Australia Day with kids this year in Brisbane and beyond. We’ve broken them down by region (Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba) so you can visit somewhere locally or decide to go a little ‘further afield’.
In 2020 Australia Day falls on a Sunday – meaning you’ve got yourself a long weekend with a cheeky holiday on the Monday 27th January 2020! Woohoo!
Want to make the MOST of all your public holidays this year? Check out our guide to getting more bang for your buck – you can turn 20 days of annual leave into EIGHT family holidays!
Things to do on Australia Day, 26 January in the Brisbane area
There are plenty of excellent choices for things to do in Brisbane for Australia Day with kids. For a comprehensive list of swimming pools, beaches, and other awesome school holiday ideas for things to do with kids and places to take them in and around Brisbane
In the list below we have listed specific events that are open and on Australia Day.
*Editor’s Australia Day meal pick
Phat Elephant – Brisbane City
If you are planning a day out in Brisbane city, add the Phat Elephant to your lunch or dinner time plans! Located at the upper level of Post Office Square, Phat Elephant offers a casual blend of authentic Thai street food with relaxed sit-down dining, offering a vast range of dishes for a reasonable price point.
We were recently hosted by them to experience their family friendly dining and we were pleasantly surprised by their range of dishes to suit all range of taste buds (including Miss 8 who can be quite fussy!)
We enjoyed starters of satay skewers, money bags, spring rolls and dumplings and mains of currys (green thai was a bit too spicy for Master 10) and pork belly and beef massaman and Thai salads.
Their staff are super lovely and attentive, the food delicious … If you are a fan of genuine flavours and quality ingredients, add the Phat Elephant to your ‘eating out with kids’ bucket list this Australia Day (and beyond)!
1. The Cube, QUT Brisbane
The Cube offers a wide range of activities for kids aged 5 and up! We love QUT and you can find more information here about what’s going on that your kids might like. We’re talking robots, art and coding!
2. GOMA and the Queensland Art Gallery
There’s ALWAYS something fun to see and do at this mecca for parents with kids looking for fun. Find out more here! (Pssst… it’s also air-conditioned…) Find out why we love GOMA here!
3. Queensland Museum & Sciencentre Brisbane
Download our engaging activity sheets before you go!
The Queensland Museum and Sciencentre is located in the city on the South Bank of the Brisbane River. It is open for Australia Day and is a great place to teach the children about Queensland’s history and marvel at the interactive displays in both the museum and Sciencentre. Most of the Museum is free but the visiting exhibits usually have an entrance fee. The Sciencentre has an admission, but the exhibits inside are free. 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. You can receive concessions if you pay a membership fee.
Sciencentre prices
Adult: $15.50
Concession/Full-time Student: $13.50
Child (3-15) (must be accompanied by an adult 18+) $12.50
Family: (2 Adults/Concessions & up to 4 Children) $46
Opening Hours are 9.30am – 5pm daily.
4. Museum of Brisbane Clock Tower Tours
A fantastic way to take in a bird’s-eye view of Brisbane city for Australia Day with kids. You can walk out onto an observation platform to absorb the unique view of Brisbane. Go and explore a small but integral part of Brisbane’s history. They are conveniently located in King George Square, right in the city centre. Wait times can be long on public holidays so arrive early as only 8 people can fit in the lift at any time. 10.15am – 4.45pm, every 15 minutes. FREE
5. Australia Day at South Bank
Head to South Bank on Sunday the 26th of January! There’ll be live music at the River Quay Green from 2pm to 6pm before the fireworks SPECTACULAR at 7.30pm. Your best vantage point is either Clem Jones Promenade, the Cultural Forecourt or River Quay itself – South Bank expects that 40,000 people will be there on the day! It’s going to be BUSY, so plan your trip in advance and consider booking ahead for parking if you’re going to drive in.
This is a family-friendly event and, as such, the whole parklands (even the places that are usually licensed) will be alcohol free on Australia Day. You can share your highlights on the day using the hashtag #visitsouthbank.
The live music section of the festivities is called “Australia Day on the Green” at River Quay. The Ivory Street Preachers and special guest DJs will keep toes tapping during the day.
All the cafes, bars and restaurants will be open as usual during the day. The car park WILL be open but public transport is a great way to get out and about. Head to the Translink site to plan your journey.
Want to know more? Head to Visit South Bank to find out more!
6. Queensland Maritime Museum, South Brisbane
You can discover historic vessels of all shapes and sizes at the Maritime Museum. It is located on the banks of the Brisbane River at South Bank. You can take a complimentary audio guided tour to make the most of your visit. The kids will enjoy the big exhibits such as the warship Diamantina. It is open on Australia Day from 9.30am – 4.30pm. Adult $16. Child $7. Family $38 (includes 2 adults and up to 3 children under 15) Pensioners, Senior and Students with valid card $14.
7. Australia Day Lunch & Dinner Cruises on the Brisbane River –
The Kookaburra Queen is celebrating Australia Day 2020 by inviting your whole family aboard for a lunch or dinner cruise. The dinner cruise has to added bonus of being able to view to fireworks – what a fantastic way to celebrate Australia day with kids without the intensity of the crowds!
Lunch cruise: 2.5 hour cruise with seasonal buffet, drinks and live entertainment
Dinner cruise: Best views of the city, seasonal buffet, drinks and live entertainment
8. Aussie Beach Party, Bribie Island
Join in the celebrations at the gorgeous Brennan Park, Bribie Island for an easy-going, Aussie time. Australia Day on Bribie Island is free to attend and one the whole family can enjoy.
Live music
The perfect Australia Day needs live music, and we’ve got you covered. From 3pm to 8pm the Australia Day on Bribie Island stage will host a huge array of live performers. Get ready for the Lamington Eating Contest as well as the Ice Cream Eating Competition!
Beach activities
Hit the golden sands for an Aussie cracking fun time with a variety of beach-themed activities including sack races, dino egg and spoon races, a game of Beach volleyball all before enjoying a swim in the crystal waters off the Bongaree waterfront.
9. Australia Day in Redcliffe
Join in the celebrations at the gorgeous Suttons Beach in Redcliffe for an easy-going, Aussie time. Australia Day in Redcliffe is free to attend and one the whole family can enjoy.
From beach activities to food trucks and live music, Australia Day Redcliffe guarantees families a ripper of a time at the beach.
Bring a picnic blanket and fold-up chairs, find the perfect spot and relax as you watch the kids play in the water and sand. Hit the golden sands for an Aussie cracking fun time with beach cricket, beach volleyball, sack races and dino egg and spoon races. Kids will have plenty to do with a number of free games and activities.
Celebrations will start at 3pm and include a Lamington Eating Competition.
10. Australia Day at Samford Museum
Australia Day at Samford Museum is something to be remembered for a long time. The day is very busy with lots of entertainment for young and old alike. Celebrations are from 9am to 2pm.
As this is a day about Australia, its past and its future, the Museum endeavours to incorporate things about our past that have made this, our wonderful country, so unique in its attitude to life and living, as well as those things from the past of our indigenous inhabitants from whom we are still learning.
The early pioneering days are reflected in the displays that are opened for the public and all are specifically there because they showcase a particular facet of our past.
11. Australia Day Celebrations at the Historical Village | Caboolture
The folk at the Village are busy planning another great Australia Day event for all. It is one of the biggest days of the calendar for the Village and there is a lot being planned. Invite your family and friends to help us make it the biggest day yet.
- Food, entertainment and toad races!
- Grand Parade!
- Demonstrations
- Village Hotel will be open
- Live Music
Adults: $10 – Children under 16 free
Open: 9am to 3pm
12. Celebrate Australia Day at Victoria Park Bistro | Herston
Spend your Australia Day Weekend surrounded by relaxing views of Brisbane’s city skyline and the rolling green hills of the golf course while you enjoy time with family and friends. The Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner serving their fresh summer menu! Free parking is available on-site for all guests and Victoria Park’s fun 18 hole Putt Putt course and Driving Range will also be open all weekend.
Australia Day Weekend Activities:
- Aussie lawn games including tug-of-war and sack races 9am – 4pm
- Jumping castle and GIANT games 9am – 4pm
- Kids bubble zone 10am – 1pm
- Live music 12pm – 3pm
- Market carts 9am – 2pm
Open Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner:
- Full Bistro a la carte menu available
- Kid’s menu available
13. Australia DAY 2020 | Redland Bay
Break out your dress thongs and best singlet because Australia Day 2020 is here!!! Come and enjoy an Aussie Pub Lunch and the fun begins from Midday with Mud Crab Racing, Jumping Castle for the kids and Heaps of other activities and giveaways for the afternoon. More details to be announced soon!
14. Australia Day by the Bay | Sandgate
Wayne Swan and Councillor Jared Cassidy have teamed up once again for Australia Day by the Bay 2020 held at the VMR on Cabbage Tree Creek.
There will be a full day of activities for the community once again this year staring with a citizenship ceremony in the Sandgate Town Hall at 10.30AM.
There’ll be a community afternoon with live entertainment, face painting and delicious eats! Live entertainment and activities for kids will be a focus!
In comparison to years gone by, the 2020 celebrations will begin at 3pm.
15. Australia Day Arvo Pool Party | Lawnton
Running from 2pm until 9pm, this is a great way to cool on down at Lawnton Aquatic Centre. Music, rides, disco, games comps and a movie! (Despicable Me 3 from 730pm). This sounds like an awesome time and there’ll also be the obligatory Aussie Day sausage sizzle. Sweet!
16. Talk a stroll on a public art or heritage trail | Various Places
There are a number of public art trails within the CBD of Brisbane and heritage trails to be found in a variety of suburbs. This is a great idea for those wanting a quieter day filled with contemplation and appreciation.
Find out more about walking trails and heritage trails here.
Find out what else is open in Brisbane this public holiday by clicking here
Things to do on the Gold Coast for Australia Day
The gorgeous Gold Coast offers families a range of great, FUN Australia Day activities. Choose any of the below and you’re guaranteed to have an excellent day out making the most of great weather and greater company.
1. City of Gold Coast Australia Day 2020 Celebrations
The City of Gold Coast Australia Day Celebrations will be held on 26 January 2020 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport.
This year, they are once again showcasing local talent on the main stage with The Round Mountain Girls headlining and support acts Electrik Lemonade, San Mei and Liv Heyer.
This free event will be held from 4pm to 8pm. The night will boast delicious food vendors, the JJ Richards ‘Aussie Activities Zone’ including water play and art activities, as well as beach volleyball on the foreshore.
Support drought-stricken farmers and head to 92.5 Triple M to donate a gold coin to Rural Aid Australia. Alternatively, you can donate online at buyabale.com.au/goldcoast
So pack your sunscreen, hat and a picnic rug and gather your family and friends for a wonderful afternoon of food, fun and live music. Bring your own water bottle and visit the free water refill station to stay hydrated! The only place to be on Australia Day is the Broadwater Parklands.
2. Take the kids on an adventure!
Our Things to Do on the Gold Coast with kids is CHOCK FULL of heaps of cost-free (or low cost) options for Aussie Day. Whether it’s snorkelling at Tallebudgera Creek, exploring the Glow Worm caves or making the most of the gorgeous bushwalks and swimming holes – the Gold Coast is pumped full with everything that makes Australia the most beautiful place on earth.
3. Hit the Theme Parks!
We love the Gold Coast theme parks and Australia Day can be an awesome opportunity to explore all they have to offer as a family.
We’ve a run down of which of the theme parks are best if you’ve got small children. It’s a great way to have a hell of a day out that’s got something for everyone – even mum and dad!
Things to do on the Sunshine Coast for Australia Day
The Sunshine Coast is a mecca for seekers of sun, sand and sweet times. It’s got a laidback vibe that’s really appealing to the Australia Day fun seeker – it’s family friendly and it’s big on fun. Here are some great ideas about how you can celebrate in this sun-soaked paradise!
1. MooloolaBaBQ Festival, Mooloolaba
What’s more Aussie than a BBQ? This is an AWESOME thing to do on Australia Day with kids as this is a celebration that will have the whole family wanting more.
It’s a BBQ competition using a variety of food and flavours with ten teams battling it out to be champions. And, of course, you’ll be right there to sample their hard work. There’ll also be food trucks lining the streets with sliders, German sausage, ribs, burgers and skewered meats (vegetarians may want to bring their own lunch…) as well as craft beers from a local brewer.
Lots of great entertainment on offer for the kids as well! Jumping castle, petting zoo and face painting. Woohoo! There’ll be live music as well. How tempting does this sound?! See you there! More details to be announced soon so watch this space.
2. Cool down at a Sunshine Coast water park!
Jump on in! Nothing says Australia Day like having a swim at the pool with your mates. We’ve got a list here of the best water parks that the Sunshine Coast has to offer!
3. Make the most of the coast with kids!
There are so many incredible things to do on the Sunshine Coast with kids. Visit beaches, take a trip to Australia Zoo or the Ginger Factory, visit national parks and go swimming in natural swimming holes – and that’s just the start!
For some unique ideas as to what you can get up to on Australia Day with the kids, check out our overview of all things kid friendly on the Sunny Coast.
Pssst… after cheap Australia Zoo tickets? We know where to find them!
4. Australia Day at Aussie World | Palmview
Open all day until 5pm, this is the place to be on Australia Day! Live entertainment, rides, food and games ahoy! Don’t miss out on the Dunny Race, Tug of War and heaps of other family-friendly entertainment and activities. Get there for breakfast and coffee is our tip! All the usual rides will also be open as well, what a great way to spend Australia Day with kids! More details to be announced so watch this space!
Things to do in Ipswich for Australia Day
As one of the fastest growing cities in Australia, Ipswich is a thriving mecca for families and the list of ‘things to do’ in Ipswich keeps getting longer and longer. We’ve picked our favourites and made sure that they are open for Australia Day 2019!
1. Robelle Domain Parklands
The Robelle Domain parklands, in Springfield Central, offer visitors a rainforest walk, waterfalls, water play areas, bike tracks, the country’s first Icon on Galaxy interactive play equipment in an all-abilities playground, and more. The largest park precinct built in Queensland since Brisbane’s Roma Street Parklands, Robelle Domain has an 11 kilometre pathway network for family fun during the day and also at night when the 9-metre high light tower installations give off a spectacular light and sound show.
Across a footbridge is Orion Lagoon – an amazing oasis of interconnected pools of varying depth. There is an amphitheatre with public events held at Robelle Domain, so, this Australia Day bring your own picnic or barbecue treats to cook, or take advantage of the delicious offerings in Robelle Café which is fully licensed and open 7 days.
2. Ipswich Art Gallery
There are great experiences for kids to take part in this year!
Visit Construction Site for awesome, hands-on, summer fun the whole family can enjoy.
Be your own architect and build your dream cubby house with the Construction Site Building Blocks! Use giant foam blocks to build whatever you can imagine. Construct a castle or a sky-scraper, or work together as a team to build a whole city!
The Construction Site fun continues in the TapeScape. Experience playing in the unique TapeScape — a tri-level creative play space made from more than 115km of packing tape designed and created by artist Eric Lennartson – direct from the US! (You need socks for this exhibit)
Take a break while you contemplate a small scale build with Blue Blocks. Build, stack, channel and connect the Blue Block bricks, cogs and cylinders to create your own invention.
Then…. Unleash your inner engineer with the return of the popular Ball Run. Create your own run using tubes and recycled materials to send a rolling ball on its way. See if you can make the best, longest or most gravity-defying ball run ever!
Construction Site presents multiple fun, interactive activities where you can creatively build and play in our air-conditioned environment. There’s even a special space for children under 2 to enjoy.
| ADULTS AT KIDS PRICES – All Ages All Day Entry $7 per person!OR $10 per person with TapeScape Socks^
$20 for a Family Pass (Admits up to 4 people. Must include at least 1 adult). Free for babies and toddlers under 2 years. TapeScape Socks^ $3 per pair – yours to keep |
3. Australia Day at CSI | 5A Lowry Street, North Ipswich
There’s a jam packed day of fun waiting for you at CSI. This is an Aussie Day spectacular filled with food and drink specials, great entertainment and games, raffles and lucky door prizes. It’ll be a hoot! The day starts at 10am with live music from 1pm to 10.30pm. Find out more here.
Things to do in Toowoomba for Australia Day
1. Sunday 26 Jan Australia Day at the Woolshed, Jondaryan
Celebrate Australia Day at the Woolshed at Jondaryan. There are plenty of good ol’ fashioned Aussie activities on the day as well as DELICIOUS food at the Woolshed Cafe or the Damper Hut. Yum! More details to be announced so watch this space.
2. Picnic Point celebrates Australia Day
Celebrate Australia Day in Toowoomba with a free family event at Picnic Point. More details to be announced so watch this space!
3. Highfields Pioneer Village – Australia Day Activities
Check out what life was like ‘back in the day’ with these activities for your family at the historic Highfields Pioneer Village. Open 9am – 5pm – Australia DayPROGRAM (Building number)
9:00am Country Music Entertainment (62)
9:30am Milking the cow, separating & butter making (19)
10:00am Schools In (59)
10:30am Working Draft Horse (20) (Billy Tea & Damper all day (8))
10:45am Sheep Shearing (2) Country Rock Entertainment until 12noon (62)
10:50am Family Games & Sheaf Tossing Competition (63)
11:00am Tour of the Toowoomba Fire Brigade Museum (61)
11:20am Rope Making (16)
11:30am Bee Keeping Demonstration (12) Aboriginal Dance Workshop: Don Nikkelson (62) A visit from
Miss Piggy- lovable mascot from Bendigo Bank
12:00noon Lunch Break, Damper Making Demonstration & Comp (9) A visit from Ned Kelly! (17) And
judging period costume (62)
12:30pm Music by Cactoblastis
1:00pm Whip Cracking School (22)
1:15pm Farmer’s Ingenuity Show (32)
1:25pm Family Games (63)
1:30pm Wheel Tyring at the Blacksmith’s Shop (10)
2:00pm Official Awards Ceremony for AUSTRALIA DAY: (62) ·
2:30pm- 3:30pm Free Billy Tea & Damper sponsored by Toowoomba R Council
3:30pm – 5pm Bush Band Entertainment sponsored by Bendigo Bank
Other Attractions during the day:- Blacksmithing, Tinsmithing, Silversmithing, Animal Nursery, Mini
Steam Train, Stationary Engines, Beekeeping, Markets, Raffles, Sausage Sizzle, Food & Drinks, Billy Tea &
Damper, Scouts & Guides, Music, Aboriginal Art Display, Didgeridoo Performance by Don Nikkelson.
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