School’s Out! What’s on these school holidays

School holidays have rolled around again. The weather is getting warmer and we have collated a comprehensive list of low-cost, crafty, creative, and fun activities for the family to enjoy.

There really is something for everyone in Cairns. From Crafternoons at the Library and workshops at the Tanks, to Fireworks on the Esplanade and hikes in nature, we’re sure you will find something fun for the whole family.

Take a walk:

• The Ivan Evans walk in Bayview Heights is a favourite, but did you know it had a facelift? Check out the new path and stairs with the kids and bring along the dog!
• The $1.2 million renewal to the Red Arrow walking track in Edge Hill is something the whole family can enjoy. The path has reopened, paths have been replaced, and new, non-slip surfaces will keep you safe in the rain.
• The Northern Beaches Leisure Trail is a unique walking and cycling link through the beautiful Northern Beaches, suitable for prams, wheelchair users, senior mobility devices, cyclists and pedestrians. The path has been completed at Machans Beach and Holloways Beach, the Barr Creek Bridge, Smithfield to Yorkeys Knob, Palm Cove, Clifton Beach, and Kewarra Beach.

Getting out and about:

• Nature Play area at Centenary Lakes gets kids out and engaged in local flora with a variety of nature-based activities and play equipment. The park has designated digging areas, fairy and sensory gardens, play equipment and picnic/BBQ areas to enjoy. The area is wheelchair accessible and there are toilets nearby but leave the pooches at home; the Nature Playground is a dog-free area.
• The Rainy Mountain Park bike park in Smithfield is open and welcoming all riders! Test your skills on the progressive jump line and six tabletop jumps.
• Pack the esky and head up to Copperlode Falls Dam Playground to enjoy the serenity while the kids enjoy new shaded play equipment. The area is perfect for families and relaxed picnics.

On the Esplanade:

• The iconic Cairns Lagoon works have been completed, and it is open as usual. With all new sand and a deep clean, it is the perfect time to cool off in town.
• Cairns 150 Years Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday 19 September will celebrate 150 years of our incredible city! Bring your family and friends to the Esplanade for a front row seat to the impressive fireworks lighting up the city skyline.
• September is Clean Up Cairns month. Join the Big Butt Hunt from Cairns Central on 20 September or Clean Up Yorkey’s Knob Beach on 26 September to help make a difference.
• Get down to the Cairns Lagoon for Aqua Zumba! The weather is getting warmer and this is the perfect time to join a community fitness class and get moving.

For the booklovers and creative kids:

• The ABC Kids TV favourites Teeny Tiny Stevies are coming to the Tanks on 28 September for the Brain Far Regional Tour. Funny for parents, engaging for kids, helping the old to feel young an young feel grown-up. Tickets are on sale now.
• Weekly Crafternoons at Cairns libraries are a chance for kids to dive into different crafts, experiment with textures and make something totally their own.
• There are over 200 ducks hidden in plain sight during The Great Library Duck Hunt at Babinda Library (21 September) or City Library (28 September). Bring them to the front counter to claim your raffle ticket and go in the running to win a grand prize!
• Children aged 5-9 can come and play with Clay at the Air Dry Clay Play workshop at Cairns Art Gallery (22 Sept). All materials are provided and the classes are for kids and teachers only, no parents allowed!

Check out the Cairns Libraries website or Facebook page for more holiday programs.