With school holidays just around the corner, South.Point is once again stepping up as a go-to destination for families, delivering a packed program of free activities designed to entertain, educate and bring the community together.
From Easter-themed adventures to hands-on wildlife encounters and creative workshops, this year’s autumn school holiday line-up is all about giving kids the chance to explore, learn and play, while making it easier for families to enjoy quality time together without the added cost.
The festivities begin with a classic Easter favourite, reimagined with a South.Point twist. From 4–6 April, children can take part in a free Easter egg hunt that transforms the centre into an interactive scavenger trail. Starting at a dedicated Easter cart, participants collect a clue card that leads them on a journey through six retailers. Along the way, they’ll solve clues, collect stamps and receive chocolate treats before returning to complete their baskets.
It’s a simple concept, but one that encourages movement, problem-solving and a sense of discovery, all while engaging with the centre in a fun way.
From 7–11 April and again from 14–18 April, the focus shifts to something a little wilder, with a program inspired by Earth Day on 22 April. Designed to spark curiosity about the natural world, the centre will host interactive experiences in partnership with Canberra Reptile Zoo.
Set up opposite Big W, the reptile zoo team will run workshops and educational sessions, giving children the chance to get up close with a variety of reptiles while learning about their habitats and the importance of environmental care. Alongside this, a free craft corner will offer daily nature-themed activities, providing a creative outlet for kids to express what they’ve learned.
At the heart of the program is a strong emphasis on empowering young people. South.Point is encouraging kids to take the lead through an interactive competition that asks them to answer five questions about the environment. Those who enter go into the draw to win a ‘Wild Family Adventure’ to Taralga, which includes a family pass to Taralga Wildlife Park, an overnight stay at Charlie’s on Church and a BMW for the weekend.
Adding to the excitement, the first 25 children to correctly complete the competition each day will receive family passes to Limelight Cinemas, offering another incentive to get involved.
There are also a few surprises woven throughout the program. From 7–18 April, visitors can take advantage of a special Donut King promotion, with a free mini iced donut included when purchasing two cinnamon donuts. Hidden within some of these treats are golden tickets, with two lucky winners each day able to redeem a family pass to the reptile zoo.
While the activities themselves are varied, the underlying goal is consistent: to create meaningful, accessible experiences for families at a time when many are feeling the pressure of rising living costs.
South.Point’s program has been designed with affordability in mind, ensuring families can still enjoy the school holidays without needing to stretch their budgets. By offering free, engaging activities, the centre is positioning itself as more than just a retail destination, but a genuine community hub.
There is also a clear focus on encouraging children to step away from screens and reconnect with hands-on experiences. Whether it’s following clues through the Easter hunt, interacting with animals or getting creative at the craft station, each activity is designed to spark curiosity and engagement in the real world.
It’s an approach that reflects broader concerns among families about screen time and the challenge of balancing digital entertainment with more active, social experiences. By providing structured, in-person activities, South.Point is giving both kids and parents an opportunity to slow down and enjoy shared moments.
The emphasis on learning through play is another key element. By incorporating educational themes, particularly around the environment, the program encourages children to think about their role in the future of the planet, while still keeping the experience fun and accessible.
Importantly, the centre’s approach has been shaped by community feedback. South.Point’s growing focus on free, family-friendly events comes directly from what locals have asked for, with ongoing engagement helping to shape the types of experiences on offer.
As a result, the school holiday program is not just a one-off initiative, but part of a broader strategy to build stronger connections within the community and create a space where people feel welcome to gather, interact and participate.
With a mix of entertainment, education and plenty of surprises along the way, South.Point’s school holiday line-up offers something for families of all ages. Whether it’s chasing clues, meeting reptiles or simply enjoying time together, the focus is firmly on creating experiences that bring people together.
And in a time when that connection feels more important than ever, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best school holiday memories are the simplest ones.
See what’s happening and plan your visit at southpointcanberra.com.au
