The Geelong Wonder Children’s Festival is back from 12–25 September, and it’s bringing a burst of colour, creativity and chaos (the fun kind) to Little Malop Street and the Geelong Arts Centre precinct.

If you’ve got kids, you know how important it is to find something that lights them up while still being fun for the grown-ups. The program spans everything from live music for little ones to interactive art and big stage shows, all buzzing through the heart of Geelong.

Geelong Wonder Children’s Festival is supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, and in partnership with City of Greater Geelong.

Why the Big Wonder Weekend is the one to circle

On 20–21 September, the Big Wonder Weekend takes over the CBD with roving performers spilling onto Little Malop Street, treasure hunts, face painting, and live music that hands the mic to the kids (yes, Piano Bar Geelong is letting the little ones call the shots).

Geelong Gallery will be running a creative station in the foyer of Geelong Arts Centre, where kids can sketch their own portraits inspired by the Archibald Prize. Even Barwon Water is in on the action at the Museum of Modern (f)Art with a cheeky, toilet-themed art adventure. The weekend mixes plenty of free fun with ticketed shows that are worth planning for.

Here’s a handy guide on everything that’s happening over the weekend.

See guide

The shows the kids will talk about for weeks

The program is stacked with big-name family productions. Spot the Dog bounds onto the stage in Spot – Live on Stage (ages 1–7).

Circus, ballet and comedy collide in Duck Pond, a wild reimagining of Swan Lake. Then there’s Mario the Maker Magician with robots and slapstick, and Proudfoot & Friends, mixing music and digital puppetry.

Velveteen Rabbit brings Margery Williams’ classic tale to life with playful warmth. Born in a Taxi mixes theatre, live projections, music and audience fun, with kids’ toys invited on stage as VIP guests. A moving story of love, loss and transformation that families will remember long after the show.

Even the tiniest festival-goers are covered. RAIN (Sold Out) is a gentle sensory performance for babies, while toddlers will love special story time sessions at the Geelong Library.

Make a weekend of it in Geelong

As a parent, I know the magic of a school holiday outing that doesn’t just entertain the kids but gives you a reason to get out and explore. The Geelong Wonder Children's Festival is the perfect excuse. Start with a morning show, grab lunch along the waterfront or in Little Malop Street, then roll back into the precinct for an afternoon of free fun.

With so much packed into one festival, it’s worth booking a night in Geelong so you don’t miss a thing.

Plan your wonder adventure

The festival runs 12–25 September, with the Big Wonder Weekend lighting up 20–21 September. Check out the full program at geelongartscentre.org.au and start planning your family’s adventure.

You can also find everything you need on how to get here to make your trip simple.