School holidays are here again, and Port Macquarie is a great destination for the family trip. Even in winter - there's no shortage of fun and sun on the Port Macquarie shores and this year we've got a number of great family friendly activities to keep the kids entertained.
Here are some school holiday ideas for Port Macquarie locals and visitors this July:
Astronomy Nights - enjoy stargazing on Wednesday nights at the Village Resort. Hosted by renowned local astronomer, Davide Reneke, you're sure to learn something new at this amazing space show. A great night for kids and adults - Wednesdays from 7:00 pm - early bird video presentation at 6:45 pm.
Dusty the Dog Puppet Shows - head to the Old Butter Factory at Telegraph Point for a fun school holiday treat. This children's puppet show is sure to delight audiences of all ages - and there's Devonshire for the adults. Bookings essential - 6, 8, 13 and 15 July from 10:30 am.
Possum Magic - part of the National Parks and Wildlife workshops, children from Kinder to Year 4 can spend the morning learning about possums. Discovery Ranger Sue takes kids into the fun and exploratory world of these unique creatures. 13 and 16 July
Cosy Craft - it's time to return to the library - school aged kids are invited to Wauchope Library for a special craft day on 13 July from 10 am. Kids can make greeting cards and badges and get some practice using those fine motor skills that doesn't involve a game console!
Mr Toad's Mad Adventures - this month, Hasting Youth Theatre brings you Mr Toad's Mad Adventure based on the popular novel series, Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Graham. Book your tickets for the Glasshouse for 18 July from 2pm - you won't want to miss it!
Manga Art Workshop - the older kids will love the Manga Art workshop where they can learn to draw some of their favourite Japanese manga characters. Led by recognised artist, Maddi kids can tap into their artistic talent and create imaginative stories and worlds. 14 July, 3 - 5pm
Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix - on water! - get a load of these speed demons. Port Macquarie is proud to host the Australian Formula 1 Powerboat Grand Prix. All the twists, turns and exciting crashes you expect from Mark Webber - you won't want to miss any of the action. 24 to 25 July 9:30 am to 4 pm at McInherney Park.
The Steam Festival - head to Timbertown for the 11th annual steam festival. With great country music, food and plenty of vintage automobiles and steam engines on display - this is a fun way to learn about the construction of the great Australian railroad system. 10 to 11 July from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Tips to survive the school holidays:
- Consider teaming up with other families to take kids to events. It'll give you some much needed time to unwind without the kids
- Get active - Port Macquarie has a number of spectacular ways to get in touch with nature. Get away from the computers, mobile phones and the internet and go for a walk.
- Plan family activities at home - if it seems like a chore to round up the troops and go, spend a day or two enjoying activities at home. Baking, cooking, crafts - these make great rainy activities as well!
What will you be doing these school holidays?