Things to do during the school holidays in Canterbury-Bankstown

Movies Under the Stars is back for 2025, bringing big-screen magic to your local parks.

From 5pm, families can enjoy live music, arts and crafts, games, obstacle courses and fun activities run by Children & Youth Services for Children’s Week. Food trucks will be on hand serving popcorn, fairy floss, burgers, hot dogs, ice cream and hot drinks.

This year we’re heading to four parks, including a brand-new location in Villawood, with family favourites like Sonic the Hedgehog 3, The Wild Robot, Wonka and Despicable Me 4.

BYO chairs, picnic blankets and snacks.

Saturday 11 October, Thurina Park, Villawood

Saturday 18 October, Gough Whitlam Park, Earlwood

Saturday 25 October, Marco Reserve, Panania

Saturday 1 November, Rotary Park, Riverwood

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a marine biologist?

Head to Campsie Library and Knowledge Centre these school holidays and discover the amazing world of rockpools.

Get up close with fascinating sea creatures and learn about the unique adaptations that help them survive in their environment.

These small but mighty animals have plenty to teach us about life under the waves.

Perfect for curious kids and families, this hands-on session will spark curiosity, inspire learning and connect you with the natural world right here in Campsie.

Wednesday 8 October, 10-11.30am

Mary Poppins is flying into Bankstown these school holidays.

City Kids Theatre, led by Davin Griffiths-Jones, brings the Disney favourite to life at The Bryan Brown Theatre.

Expect toe-tapping numbers, colourful costumes and plenty of magical moments as Mary arrives at Cherry Tree Lane to whisk the Banks family—and the audience—into a world of fun, imagination and heart.

It’s the perfect show for kids, parents and anyone who loves a bit of Disney magic. Don’t miss this practically perfect family outing.

Wednesday 1 October, 4.30pm & 7.30pm

Thursday 2 October, 10.30am, 3pm & 7pm

Get creative these school holidays with hands-on workshops for kids and teens at Bankstown Arts Centre.

Unleash your imagination with magical clay sculptures inspired by ancient Japanese dogū figurines or design a funky ceramic photo frame to treasure.

Love plants? Craft your own animal planter, perfect for succulents or small greenery.

Discover Japanese ceramic techniques with an introduction to Nerikomi and Kurinuki or try your hand at experimental collage painting using fun tools and textures.

Budding artists can also explore the beauty of still life with a sunflower painting workshop.

With so many ways to get creative, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Get ready for an afternoon of laughs, music and adventure with the whole family.

Sutherland Shire Brass is bringing the much-loved Wallace & Gromit classic A Grand Day Out to life in a one-of-a-kind live performance at The Bryan Brown Theatre.

You’ll enjoy a screening of the film with its iconic soundtrack performed live by the award-winning brass band.

Expect plenty of laughs, quirky inventions, rocket cheese and brilliant brass music that will have both kids and adults grinning from ear to ear.

Sunday 12 October, 2.30- 4pm

Get ready to roll at Roberts Park in Greenacre with a beginner-friendly skateboarding workshop.

This session is perfect if you’re stepping on a board for the first time or want to improve your balance, control and overall confidence on a skateboard.

Experienced instructors will guide you through the basics, help you learn new skills and make sure you feel safe while having fun.

Small groups mean plenty of personal attention and everyone gets to enjoy a supportive, hands-on environment.

Registration opens at 9am two weeks before the event.

Tuesday 7 October, 1.30-3.30pm

Take a trip behind the scenes of a real live magic show and learn magic tricks from a professional magician.

Held at Earlwood Library and Knowledge Centre, this hands-on session is perfect for kids aged 5–12 who want to explore the secrets of magic.

You’ll get to peek up the magician’s sleeve and inside the top hat to discover how magic really works and even learn a few tricks to try at home.

Spaces are limited, so registration opens soon — grab your spot and become a mini magician.

Tuesday 7 October, 10-11.30am

Love chocolate? Join Kimberley Chocolates, Sydney’s artisan chocolate makers, for a hands-on workshop at the Belmore Youth Centre.

Perfect for ages 12-18, you’ll team up in pairs to make 24 chocolates—12 to take home—and dip strawberries and Turkish delight in melted chocolate.

While your creations set, enjoy a delicious hot chocolate and learn fun chocolate facts along the way.

The Youth Centre will also be open for drop-in from 10am to 1.30pm, so you can hang out before the workshop kicks off.

Tuesday 30 September, 1.30-4.30pm