Get a spring in your step these school holidays
With the promise of beach-filled days, time with friends and endless sunshine just around the corner, it’s little wonder kids can barely contain their excitement at the thought of leaving school behind these holidays.
With the promise of beach-filled days, time with friends and endless sunshine just around the corner, it’s little wonder kids can barely contain their excitement at the thought of leaving school behind these holidays.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Simon Latchford said bookings for the region were strong heading in to the spring holiday period.
“Several properties have recorded an increase in booking numbers from this time last year, and 2017 was a record period for tourism on the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Latchford said.
"And it’s not just hotels and apartments seeing an increase, with camping and glamping sites also enjoying a boost in visitor numbers.”
Here on the Sunshine Coast, there is more than enough to keep everyone entertained throughout spring.
Visit Sunshine Coast has compiled a list of family friendly events being held these holidays, and whether you’re a local or holiday-maker, there’s bound to be something for everyone.
Music Festivals
Join Birds of Tokyo, John Butler and The Temper Trap at this year’s Caloundra Music Festival, held September 28 - October 1. With Kings Beach providing the backdrop, it’s a great day out for all the family. Meanwhile, live music is set to echo through the Mary Valley when the Mitchell Creek Rock ‘n’ Blues Fest is held from September 21-24, showcasing more than 150 artists.
Become a marine biologist for the day
These school holidays, Sea Life Sunshine Coast are giving kids the chance to become a marine biologist for the day. The full or half-day adventure includes a behind-the-scenes tour with marine experts, seal presentation, interactive animal handling and more. The event will be held on September 26 and 28 and October 4 and 6. Sea Life will also host a “slimed” event, with guests encouraged to stick their hands in a mystery black box and guess what slimy creature the texture resembles. Slime making workshops will be held at 12pm and 2:30pm from September 22 to October 7.
Head to the markets
Head to Bulcock Beach for the Caloundra Twilight Markets, held from 5-9pm across three consecutive Fridays on September 28, October 5 and October 12. There is fun for the whole family with street entertainment, artisan stalls and food.
Take a walk on the wild side
Nothing says spring like new life. So why not celebrate the cutest new arrivals at Australia Zoo, including their baby giraffe and koala joeys. You can also take part in Robert’s Treasure Hunt, enjoy free face painting on weekends or indulge in daily ice cream parties from September 22 to October 7.
Ride in to the night
On Saturday, September 22, Aussie World will host their Ride The Night event, opening the gates from 6pm so you can experience the theme park in a whole new light. Tickets cost $20, with free admission for children under three.
Test your skills on giant inflatables
With the cold weather behind us, Aqua Park Coolum, Twin Waters Aqua Fun Park and Bli Bli Aqua Park will open their doors seven-days a week to cater for the spring school holidays. Test yourself on the giant inflatables, and don’t forget your towel.
Free holiday entertainment
These school holidays, The Ginger Factory will hold free magic shows with Blaze, the comedic magician. The shows will be held twice daily at 9.30am and 11am from September 24-28.
Step back in time with Medieval fun
Marvel in some medieval fun at Sunshine Castle. Throughout the school holidays the castle will host a number of activities, including party games and fun with Princess Jemma (September 23, 24, 30 and October 7), and lessons on how to shoot a medieval longbow with Sunshine Castle’s resident knight Sir Justyn.
For more information on planning your Sunshine Coast holiday break go to: www.visitsunshinecoast.com