Australia Day activities for the family? We’ve got them! Mark the calendar to do something unique on our nation’s special day!
Not only is Australia Day an opportunity to celebrate living in an amazing country, it’s a chance to surround ourselves with family, friends, food and fun.
Whether you wish to gather a crowd or relax at home we’ve a suggestion that will suit your wishes as this national holiday looms.
Australia Day Activities For Kids
There’s tons of ways to celebrate Australia Day. There’s events and activities in just about every city and town in Australia. But if you’re looking for a little “at home” fun, here’s our top picks for Australia Day Activities for families!
The Australia Day Neighbourhood One Day Series!
Nothing says Australian summer like cricket. Gather the neighbours for a friendly backyard cricket match. The kids will delight in the adults playing with them and the Dad’s will enjoy showing off their skills. Beer and wine optional but traditional backyard rules apply – one handed off the wall is always out!
Hire a boat in a local waterway
A dingy is cheap to hire (for example $60 for 5 hours at Bribie Island) and a thrill for the whole family. Pack lunch and the fishing rods (or swimming gear if the waterway is suitable) and enjoy the day out. Australia Day is a public holiday so it may be wise to book in advance. If budget permits a houseboat is an exciting overnight adventure safe for all ages. Gather some friends and hire a houseboat together, share the cost and the fun!
Pack an Australia Day picnic
Grab your mates and the esky – head off on an Australia Day family picnic! Be it the beach or a national park this is a chance to be together and enjoy a beautiful Australian location. Some Council owned parks have coin operated BBQ facilities that are ideal for a traditional sausage sizzle. If you’re thinking of a wood-burning fire be sure to check fire regulations for the local area. Keep the kids busy by throwing in a Frisbee, their bathers or a soccer ball. Don’t forget hats and sunscreen.
Stay at home Australia Day themed activities for kids
You don’t need to head out to have a great Australia Day. Younger children would love at-home Australia Day activities. All toddlers and little people love a great craft project or you could bake damper, this delish lamington cake or even a Pavlova. Sometimes the best days are spent at home enjoying the chance to be together as a family. Want to make it extra special? Eat outside and surprise the kids with a box of sparklers once the sun goes down. Simple pleasures for young and old!
See what is happening in your local area and join in (including Australia Day fireworks!)
Most local councils offer free events for Australia Day. From fireworks to Citizenship Ceremonies, fetes to cultural festivals check out the website of your local government authority to see what family activities are on offer. The National Australia Day Council website is also a handy guide on what’s happening in your state.
Whether you choose to get out and about or relax at home Australia Day is a wonderful chance to spend time as a family. Be sure to talk to your children (at an appropriate level) about what Australia Day means and how modern Australia is a vibrant, safe and special place to live.
