What's on in Perth this weekend for families

Current events

WASO's Lotterywest Christmas Spectacular

    Dates: Saturday 09 December 2023

  • Address: RAC Arena, 700 Wellington St, Perth WA 6000
  • Ages: All ages
FREE Christmas event in Perth: WASO's Lotterywest Christmas Spectacular
FREE Christmas event in Perth: WASO's Lotterywest Christmas Spectacular

Get ready for a FREE holiday event in Perth that will fill your heart with holiday cheer - WASO's Lotterywest Christmas Spectacular!

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, so your whole family is invited to join the fun at RAC Arena.

Sing along to your favourite Christmas songs like "All I Want for Christmas is You" and "Aussie Jingle Bells."

With over 150 talented performers, including Sophie Foster, Ben Mingay, Prudence Sanders, Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse, it's a musical celebration you won't want to miss!

Secure your free tickets today!

The Snowman - Perth 2023

    Dates: Saturday 09 December 2023 - Sunday 10 December 2023

  • Address: Dickinson Centre - Scotch College, 76 Shenton Road, Swanbourne, WA 6010
  • Ages: All ages
What's on in Perth December 2023: The Snowman @ Scotch College Perth
What's on in Perth December 2023: The Snowman @ Scotch College Perth

Get ready to experience the magic of Christmas 2023 with The Snowman! Join Perth Symphony Orchestra in an enchanting live performance that has already enchanted over 15,000 people of all ages.

Follow the story of a young boy and his snowman friend, brought to life by gorgeous animation and an incredible orchestral soundtrack.

Libby Hammer presents this engaging Christmas show as the perfect introduction to the magic of a live orchestra and is sure to fill your heart with warmth and joy this Christmas season.

Cinderella Ballet in Perth

    Dates: Wednesday 20 December 2023 - Thursday 21 December 2023

  • Address: Perth Concert Hall, 5 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Ages: All ages
Christmas events in Perth: Cinderella Ballet
Christmas events in Perth: Cinderella Ballet

Get ready to step into a fairytale world with Cinderella Ballet in Perth!

Join Cinderella, her magical glass slippers, and the enchanting Fairy Godmother for a royal ball at Perth Concert Hall.

Presented by Youth Ballet WA and Charlesworth Ballet School, this one-act ballet of the classic story is perfect for princes and princesses of all ages.

Dress in your finest, and you might even win a special prize at the Royal Ball!

This family show has arrived just in time for the Christmas school holidays in Perth!

Ticket prices:

  • Adults and children (14+ years): $28.53
  • Children (2-13 years old): $15.27
  • Babies and toddles (under 2): FREE on a lap.

Sleeping Beauty: The Traditional Christmas Pantomime

    Dates: Friday 15 December 2023 - Sunday 24 December 2023

  • Address: The Regal Theatre, 474 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008
  • Duration: 1 h 45 mins (including interval)
  • Ages: All age groups
What's on Perth school holidays / Christmas events in Perth: Sleeping Beauty, the Pantomime
What's on Perth school holidays / Christmas events in Perth: Sleeping Beauty, the Pantomime

Get ready for a magical adventure in Sleeping Beauty, the traditional Christmas Pantomime!

Dive into a fairy tale world where a beautiful Princess faces a wicked curse from the fairy Carabosse.

Only true love's kiss can break the spell that puts her to sleep for a century.

Join Queen, the hapless court jester Chester, and the handsome Prince Philip on a quest to break the spell.

With laughter, love, and lots of surprises, this enchanting Christmas pantomime promises to be one of the best family shows! ✨👸🤴🎭

Tickets:

  • Tickets start at $59
  • Kids (under 2 years) - FREE on the knee of a paying adult.

Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair 2023 in Perth City

    Dates: Friday 01 December 2023 - Saturday 06 January 2024

  • Address: The Landing, Geoffrey Bolton Avenue Perth WA 6000
  • Duration: 5pm - Late
  • Ages: All age groups
Christmas events in Perth / Fun things to do in Perth in December 2023 - January 2024: Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair
Christmas events in Perth / Fun things to do in Perth in December 2023 - January 2024: Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair

Get ready for the ultimate family fun at Perth's favourite - Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair 2023!

This summer extravaganza will light up Perth City with fun and excitement.

Enjoy FREE entry to mesmerising Nova 93.7 Fireworks, Entertainment, Snowfalls, the Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail, the Alinta Energy Christmas Pageant and the City Of Light New Year's Eve Show!

The thrilling Carnival Rides, Carousel & Ride on Train and exciting Sideshow Games are also available!

There is something for everyone, from holiday attractions and family entertainment to delicious food trucks and sweet treats.

Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair is truly one of the best places for family fun and festive cheer in Perth City this December!

Opening hours

  • Friday 1st December - Saturday 6th January, 5pm - Late
  • Closed Mon 4th - Wed 6th December; Mon 11th - Wed 13th December; Christmas Day & New Years Day

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show in Perth

    Dates: Wednesday 10 January 2024 - Sunday 14 January 2024

  • Address: The Regal Theatre, 474 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008
  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Ages: 18+ months
What to do with babies in school holidays / Perth events January 2024: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
What to do with babies in school holidays / Perth events January 2024: The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Get ready to be enchanted by The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show in Perth!

Based on the beloved stories of Eric Carle, this magical experience is perfect for kids aged 18+ months and their families.

Watch in awe as over 75 magical puppets, including the star, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, come alive on stage.

Join the caterpillar on its adventure and enjoy other heartwarming tales like Brown Bear, What Do You See? and The Very Busy Spider.

It's not just a kids' show - it's an interactive journey through the world of imagination, so come join the school holiday fun!" 🐛✨🎭

Tickets for the Very Hungry Caterpillar show:

  • Standard ticket starts from $41.

And Juliet Musical - Perth

    Dates: Saturday 30 December 2023 - Sunday 21 January 2024

  • Address: Crown Theatre Perth, Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood WA 6100
  • Duration: 2.5 hours (including interval)
  • Ages: 8+ years old
What's on Perth school holidays / Perth events January 2024: And Juliet Musical tour at Crown Theatre
What's on Perth school holidays / Perth events January 2024: And Juliet Musical tour at Crown Theatre

Imagine if Juliet had the power to choose her own fate - and it all started after the infamous ending of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and second chances, as the original Anne Hathaway convinces her husband William Shakespeare to remix his legendary play.

This hilarious, feel-good new musical features electrifying choreography, stunning set design and an addictive soundtrack featuring iconic pop anthems from the Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, The Weeknd, and more.

Will Juliet finally get the ending she deserves? Can Romeo and Juliet’s love’\ survive this epic battle of wills? Or has Juliet yet to discover her true love story?

You won't want to miss finding out! So grab your & JULIET tickets now - you'll be singing along, dancing in your seat and leaving with a big smile!

And Juliet The Musical tickets:

  • Tickets start at $84.90

Ant Middleton in Perth: Fear Bubble Show

    Dates: Monday 05 February 2024

  • Address: Riverside Theatre (Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre), Parenting Room/21 Mounts Bay Rd, Perth WA 6000
  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Ages: All age groups
What's on in Perth for families with teenagers: Ant Middleton show - Fear Bubble: Your Life, Your Time
What's on in Perth for families with teenagers: Ant Middleton show - Fear Bubble: Your Life, Your Time

Get ready for an incredible night of growth, inspiration, resilience and adventure with Ant Middleton, the SAS Australia star and bestselling author. Ant is coming back to Perth with his brand-new FEAR BUBBLE: Your Life, Your Time tour!

In this live show, Ant will teach you the secrets of positive mindset and conquering fear. You'll learn how to turn fear into your advantage, the importance of emotional intelligence, and discover Ant's secret to living a purposeful life.

Drawing from his thrilling experiences in the special forces and his role on SAS Australia, Ant will share powerful stories and practical skills to empower you to face life's challenges.

Don't miss this unique chance to learn from a true master of extreme adventure and positive mindset.

Tickets for Ant Middleton - FEAR BUBBLE Show:

  • Tickets start at $89

Andy and the Odd Socks - Perth Show

    Dates: Friday 10 January 2025 - Sunday 12 January 2025

  • Address: Regal Theatre, 474 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008
  • Ages: All ages
Perth events in January 2025: Andy and the Odd Socks
Perth events in January 2025: Andy and the Odd Socks

Get ready for a super fun and exciting kids' show with Andy and the Odd Socks in Perth!

These cool characters from the TV series are hitting the live stage to entertain families of all ages.

Join Andy and his quirky sock friends as they bring a mix of catchy songs, hilarious antics, and a positive message to be proud of who you are.

Don't miss out one of the most popular live music shows for kids!

Tickets for Andy and the Odd Socks:

  • Tickets start from $57.15
  • Babies (under 18 months): FREE on the knee of a paying adult

🎉 Discover what's on in Perth for families this weekend and school holiday

When it comes to what's on in Perth for families, this vibrant city in Western Australia offers many family-friendly, cultural, artistic, and sporting events.

Perth offers many kids and family events each weekend and school holidays, whether at one of the city’s famous museums, concerts, festivals, art galleries, fairs and markets - Perth has something for everyone in your family!

This guide explores some of the most popular family events in Perth. Join us as we dive into what's on in Perth for families this weekend and during the school holidays.


The best Perth Museums for kids & families:

Visiting a museum is a popular family activity during weekends and school holidays. Some of the best Perth museums to visit with kids and the whole family include:

  • WA Museum Boola Bardip is a state-of-the-art museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of Western Australia, with many fascinating local and international travelling exhibitions. 

  • WA Maritime Museum is all about the maritime history of Western Australia, with exhibits on shipwrecks, navigation and the fishing industry. 

  • The Museum of Perth is dedicated to Perth’s history, architecture, culture and people. 

  • Army Museum Of Western Australia showcases the history of the Australian Army in Western Australia, including military equipment, uniforms, medals, tanks and more memorabilia. 

  • The Nostalgia Box Museum is a unique museum dedicated to video games and gaming culture, including vintage video game consoles, arcade machines and modern game exhibits. 

Science Museum in Perth:

When asked, “Is there a science museum in Perth?” the answer is yes! Scitech is the best science museum in Perth that offers:

  • six interactive galleries,

  • a planetarium,

  • new, large-scale, fascinating exhibitions and

  • school holiday events and activities for families and school-aged kids.


Popular Family Events and Concerts in Perth

Each year, Perth hosts a line-up of fantastic family events and concerts. Some of the popular family-friendly events in 2023 include:

  • Disney 100: The Concert at Riverside Theatre

  • The Wiggles Concert at RAC Arena 

  • Disney Princess Concert at Riverside Theatre

  • Winnie the Pooh The Musical at Regal Theatre

  • West Australian Symphony Orchestra with EChO Kids' Concerts at Perth Concert Hall

  • Cirque du Soleil at RAC Arena 

  • Western Australia Youth Orchestras (WAYO) Concerts.

Where are Concerts held in Perth?

Perth boasts several indoor and outdoor world-class venues for every kind of event. including:

  • Optus Stadium is an iconic venue for large concerts from famous local and international musicians to sporting events in Perth.

  • RAC Arena is known for hosting many concerts by both local and international artists and sporting events.

  • HBF Park is not just a stadium for major sporting events in Perth. It also hosts live concerts and community events.

  • Perth Concert Hall is a versatile venue that's home to everything from classical music to rock concerts and family shows.

  • Astor Theatre Perth is well-known for hosting many concerts, from classical music to pop, rock, jazz, rock-and-roll, comedy shows, and film screenings. 

  • Riverside Theatre at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) is a major venue for hosting large concerts, conferences and major events.

  • Regal Theatre in Subiaco is one of Perth's major performing arts venues.


The best family-friendly Perth festivals

Perth offers many family-friendly festivals all year round, including music, cultural and other festivals. Here's a curated list of the top Perth festivals that are perfect for families:

Best Perth festivals

When scheduled to take place

Perth Festival

February - March

St Jerome's Laneway Festival

February

Nannup Music Festival 

March

ROAM Festival

March

Fairbridge Festival

April

Perth Comedy Festival

April - May

WA Day Festival

June

Perth Royal Show

September

Christmas Lights Trail

December

Keep in mind that dates vary from year to year, so check each festival’s website for the most up-to-date information.

Discover the top Perth music festivals

Perth music festivals offer many genres to enjoy, from pop and rock to jazz and folk music. Some of the best live music events and electrifying performances at some of Perth's best festivals include:

  • Fringe World Festival

  • Perth Festival

  • Nannup Music Festival 

  • Fairbridge Festival

  • WA Day Festival

  • Perth Royal Show

  • Blues at Bridgetown Festival

  • Perth International Jazz Festival 

  • Darlington Arts Festival

  • East Fremantle's George Street Festival

Discover family-friendly cultural festival in Perth

If wondering what cultural festivals Perth has that the whole family can enjoy, Perth boasts an array of family-friendly cultural festivals. Here are some of the best for you:

  • Perth Festival takes place in February - March each year and celebrates Perth's arts, culture, and spirit.

  • Fringe World Festival is in January-February and showcases a unique blend of performances and arts. Fringe Kids! is part of the Fringe World Festival that offers a series of fun kid-friendly comedy shows, a circus and more outdoor activities for all ages.

  • Nannup Music Festival takes place during the Labour Day long weekend in March and presents a blend of various musical genres, workshops, and fun activities for all ages.

  • Fairbridge Festival usually takes place in April and features a variety of music, workshops, and various activities suitable for all ages.

  • Fremantle International Street Arts Festival takes place in April and features performers from around the world, like acrobats, comedians, and musicians. It’s a family-friendly event in Parth.

  • Perth Royal Show is in September, offering agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and other activities for all ages.

  • Darlington Arts Festival takes place in November and offers artistic exhibits, performances, and workshops that are suitable for all ages.

  • Oktoberfest in the Gardens is in October, celebrating German culture with music, food, and beer. Children are welcome but need to be supervised at all times.


What are the major Sporting Events in Perth?

Perth hosts various sporting events throughout the year. Some major sporting events in Perth include:

  • The Perth Cup is a horse racing event that takes place on New Year's Day, January 1st.

  • Australia Cup matches take place over a season as part of the national knockout cup soccer competition.

  • The Margaret River Pro is a surfing competition that takes place in April.

  • Chevron City to Surf for Activ! Walk, Run or Roll is a running and walking event that is typically held in August.

  • Perth Running Festival includes a marathon and half marathon, 10k and 4k events, usually held in October.

  • Perth Duathlon 80k & Runningworks Festival is in October.

  • Perth International is a golf tournament that takes place in October.

  • Perth Roller Derby Championships take place over a season. In 2023, it’s in May - November.

Please note that the dates of these sporting events may vary from year to year.

The top Perth stadiums include:

Below are some of the top Perth stadiums to watch various family-friendly sports events, concerts and other performances. 

Top Perth stadiums

Perth Stadium Capacity

Optus Stadium is the go-to sports and concert venue for watching concerts in Perth, music festivals, sporting events, etc.

60,000

HBF Park is an outdoor stadium in Perth that hosts football and rugby games and occasional concerts. 

20,500

RAC Arena is an indoor stadium that hosts basketball, netball and tennis games, concerts, and family-friendly events and shows in Perth.

15,500


The best Perth markets for kids and families

The best Perth markets with family-friendly atmospheres and activities include: 

  • Subiaco Markets (Subi Farmers Market Perth) is a popular market for kids and families with fresh produce, artisanal products and various food stalls. 

  • Canning Vale Sunday Markets have over 220 stalls with all sorts of unique goods, from fresh produce to toys and second-hand goods.  

  • Midland Markets is Perth’s second oldest farmers market, with fresh organic produce, jams, plants, pet supplies, accessories, fashion and more.

  • Swan Settlers Market is one of the best kids-friendly markets in Perth, with food stalls, vintage and artisan goods, and even live music and kids’ activities.

  • Perth City Farm Farmer’s Market is a popular weekly fresh produce market with a focus on organic, local and homemade goods.

Discover Perth night markets

Night markets are a unique experience; however, not all are kid-friendly. Below are the best Perth night markets to visit with kids:

  • Kalamunda Markets are popular artisan markets with vendor stalls and live music, perfect for the whole family to explore. 

  • Inglewood Night Markets are one of the best family-friendly markets in Perth, with food stalls and entertainment. They’re also zero waste!

Burns Beach Twilight Market offers international street food on the beach - perfect for families with kids!


Discover Perth Art Galleries with kids

Many Perth art galleries recognise the importance of engaging children, offering great collections and engaging activities and events tailored for kids. Some of our top picks for family-friendly Perth art galleries include:

  • The Art Gallery of Western Australia is a free, family-friendly art gallery with a wide range of exhibitions, programs, and school holiday events. 

  • The Fremantle Arts Centre houses the Art Gallery Fremantle, the largest art collection in Perth, with historical and contemporary works, photography, ceramics and more. The Art Centre also offer community and family-friendly events.

  • The Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery is a free University of Western Australia art gallery that offers a range of exhibitions and programs for kids.


Experience the top Children's Theatres in Perth

Perth has several theatres and performing arts centres that offer kids’ shows and family events:

  • Riverside Theatre at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) is Perth's largest tiered theatre that offers live music, comedy shows, and cultural and family-friendly events.

  • His Majesty's Theatre is a beautiful historical theatre that offers ballet and cabaret performances, comedy shows and more.

  • Crown Theatre Perth is one of the largest theatres in Perth, offering a large variety of musicals, concerts, kids’ shows and more. 

  • The Regal Theatre is an Art Deco-style theatre showing musicals, theatre and dance performances, comedy shows, and concerts.

  • State Theatre Centre (State Theatre of WA) is a modern performing arts centre offering live shows, concerts, workshops and film screenings. 

Must-see Family Shows in Perth: 

Watching theatre shows or musicals are among the school holiday activities Perth offers to families. Here are some past and upcoming exciting family shows in Perth:

  • Winnie the Pooh Musical

  • Cirque Du Soleil - Crystal

  • Disney Princess Concert

  • The Wiggles Concert

  • Andy's Amazing Adventures on-stage show

  • and classics like The Lion King Musical, The Wizard of Oz Musical, Aladdin the Musical, The Sound of Music, and Matilda the Musical.


Top family-friendly Perth Fairs

When it comes to some of the most fun things to do in Perth for families, visiting one of the best Perth fairs is a delightful experience! Here are some not-to-be-missed events that promise great family fun:

  • Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair is another fantastic Perth fair with lots of exciting rides, sideshow games, food trucks and more. It usually takes place from December to January, during the Perth school holidays.

  • HyperFest is a popular youth festival tailored for teenagers and young people, with an art competition, live music, art exhibitions and more. It takes place in February.

  • Fun Fair, Hillarys Boat Harbour is a super fun Perth fair with many thrilling rides, bumper cars and more. It stretches from December to late February.


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