Spring School Holidays in Perth: What’s On North of The River

The spring school holidays run 21 September to 6 October, and living along this stretch of coast means you’re spoiled for choice — free council programs, big centre activations, and a couple of proper day-trip options too. Here’s what’s actually on, sorted so you can find something fast.

Affordable (and free!) Local Activities

Libraries & Storytelling

City of Joondalup libraries run interactive play and storytelling sessions for kids of all ages — no cost, no bookings needed:

• Duncraig Library — Thursdays, 10am
• Whitfords Library — Fridays and Saturdays, 10am

Check the City of Joondalup’s page for the full holiday program, as some workshops do require registration.

Play Trails & Nature Walks

The City of Stirling’s Play Trails turn a simple walk into a proper adventure across four scenic reserves plus one at Scarborough Beach:

• Lake Gwelup Story Trail
• Trigg Bushland Story Trail
• Scarborough Play Trails

Great for families who want to be outdoors without needing to plan much.

Active & Skill-Based Fun

• Duncraig Adventure Hub — skateboarding, scooters, bike pump track, roller skating rink, basketball, playground and nature play, all in one spot
• Free Bike Mechanic Assessments — City of Stirling
• Mini Chef Workshop  and Toddler Gym — City of Stirling
• Stop Motion Video Workshop — City of Stirling

Shopping Centres

Karrinyup Shopping Centre | Watch Our Garden Grow

Colour in your favourite garden creature and watch it come to life, buzzing and crawling through a giant Spring Garden.

• Ground floor, near Cotton On
• 3–11 October, 11am–4pm daily
• Free, no bookings required

Westfield Whitford City | Marvel Activity Station

A free Marvel-themed activity station to keep the kids busy.

• Located near Coles
• Tuesday 29 September – Sunday 4 October

Whitfords is also handy for a full outing — iPlay Whitfords has bowling and arcade games, Event Cinemas is currently showing PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, Toy Story 5, Moana and Practical Magic 2, and the food court covers everything from Betty’s Burgers and Grill’d to an indoor kids’ playground for the little ones.

Beach & Boardwalk Days

Holiday Surfing Lessons For Kids

Surfing WA’s Surf Groms holiday program is a great way to get the kids into the water with proper instruction over the break.

Putt Putt by the Sea — Hillarys Boardwalk

A bit of friendly competition down at the amphitheatre.

• • Monday 5 to Friday 9 October
  • 11am – 2pm daily
  • Hillarys Boardwalk Amphitheatre
  • No bookings required – just turn up and grab a putter

Activity Ideas For Bigger Days Out

AQWA — Junior Marine Scientist (Ages 6–12)

A fully hosted 3-hour ocean-themed program including a glass bottom boat ride, guided tours, biology basics, lunch, a craft session and a take-home souvenir plus completion certificate.

Perth Royal Show

• 📅 26 September – 3 October 2026
• ⏰ 10am until late daily (last entry 8:30pm)
• 📍 Claremont Showground, 1 Graylands Rd, Claremont

Rottnest Fast Ferries Hillarys | Quokka’s Big Birthday Weekend

Free ferry travel for kids aged 4–12, plus free island admission for children (4–12) and youths (12–16).

• Use code QUOKKABDAY26 at booking