Ultimate Guide to School Holiday Events and Activities in Newcastle and the Hunter Region

Are you planning a caravan trip to Newcastle and the beautiful Hunter Region during the school holidays? If so, you’re in for a treat! Not only does this area boast stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, but it also offers a plethora of family-friendly events and activities to keep kids entertained during their break from school. Whether you’re exploring the coast, wandering through charming towns, or relaxing in nature, here are some must-visit events for families caravanning in the area:

Image credit: Credit: Destination NSW

Hunter Valley Gardens – Mega Creatures

Step into an immersive prehistoric world filled with giant and fantastical beasts! Discover amazing dinosaurs, giant insects & mythical creatures, including T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Spinosaurus, Triceratops and more! This event is truly MEGA, with our mega creatures and our amazing rides* joining forces to ensure a big day out!

Dates: 6 April – 5 May

Location:
Hunter Valley Gardens
2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320

Cost: Kids (4-15) $30, Adults $40, Family Pass (2A+2C) $122

Science Shows at Newcastle Museum

Newcastle Museum are cramming all the smashing-est science into the April school holiday science shows! Rockets! Marshmallows! Splitting light! The laser trumpet! Dinosaurs! And Mike the Manikin will be there so you can pull out his organs and put them back like a jigsaw puzzle.

Dates:

Tuesday 16 April, Thursday 18 April and Monday 22 April:

• 11:15am – 12pm
• 12:15 – 1pm
• 1:15 – 2pm

Location:
Newcastle Museum
6 Workshop Way, Newcastle NSW 2300

Ages: All Ages

Cost: Free

No bookings needed, just drop-in!

Image credit: Destination NSW

KIDS GO FREE ALL APRIL at Hunter Valley Wildlife Park!

Up to 2 KIDS (3-15 years) can visit ABSOLUTELY FREE with every paying Adult!

It’s the perfect time to all hop in the car and encounter some of Australia’s most beloved animals, including Maji and Phoenix, the Hunter’s fascinating lions. What’s more, the whole family can learn about our incredible animals from our knowledgeable zookeepers in daily keeper talks, and hand-feed farmyard friends, including camels, ostriches and more.

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Kids can join the Wildlife Adventure Trail for only $14.99! This engaging quest will lead them through the diverse species that call Hunter Valley Wildlife Park home, providing a fun-filled journey of discovery and surprises. As a bonus, when every little adventurer completes their quest they win a fabulous Showbag, valued at over $60!

Stardust Circus

Experience the fantastic array of talent and fun all under one Big top! From hilarious clowns, dogs, goats, ponies, incredible aerial performances and everything in between  there is definitely no dull moment here at Stardust! Owned and operated by 5th and 6th generation performers, the West family have entertainment in their blood and know exactly how to put on a show.

Dates: April 12 – 28

Location:
Richardson Park
16 Chatham Rd, Hamilton North NSW 2292

Cost: Kids (3-25) from $30, Adults from $40

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

The Monster Jump

The Monster Jump is the newest inflatable obstacle course to hit Australia, suitable for everyone from children to adults!  With sliding, climbing, bouncing, and more, it’s fun galore for the whole family! 

Dates: April 17 – 28

Location: Griffith Park, Stockton NSW 2295

Cost: From $35 (2 hour pass)

Lake Macquarie Community Steam Train Day

Ride a miniature train at the Lake Macquarie Live Steam Community ride day! Trains run from around 12:30pm until around 3:30pm, picking up from 2 stations.

Date: April 28

Location: Velinda St, Edgeworth NSW 2285

Cost: $2.50 per train ride (children under 2 years old ride free)

For Newcastle Caravans or Newcastle Motorhomes, visit Jayco Newcastle.

Jayco Newcastle is a leading dealership in the Hunter and Central Coast regions for Camper Trailers, Pop-Tops, Caravans, and Motorhomes. With over 40 years of partnership with Australia’s RV market leader Jayco, the Heatherbrae dealership provides a comprehensive range of new and used caravans and motorhomes. In addition, they have a state-of-the-art service and accessories center, which covers over 5 acres. At Jayco Newcastle, you can find everything related to caravan and motorhome sales, servicing, parts, and accessories, all under one roof.

1 Camfield Drive, Heatherbrae NSW 2324