What’s On for Kids This Weekend: Days of Ice Festival, Heritage Fun Zone and more

Our pick of family-friendly events from 1 – 13 October 2024. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend…

Christchurch is serving up a smorgasbord of family-friendly activities that’ll have your little rascals bouncing off the walls (in a good way, we promise) this weekend. From Japanese jaunts to Antarctic escapades, we’ve got the lowdown on where to take your troops for some guaranteed giggles and grins. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend…

Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.

What’s on for kids this weekend:

Japan Fiesta EX 2024

What’s on for kids this weekend: japan fiesta

Japan Fiesta EX 2024 brings a slice of Japanese culture to Riccarton Racecourse. While adults can enjoy anime screenings and food stalls, the real highlight for families is the dedicated kids’ area. Here, little ones can enjoy pedal tractors, roller coasters, and soft blocks provided by Church Corner Toy Library.

When: Saturday, 12 October, 10am – 6pm
Where: Riccarton Racecourse, Racecourse Road, Sockburn
How much: Adults $15, Children (6-12) $10, Under 6s free

More info here.

The Greater Hornby Market

what's on for kids this weekend: lincoln spring market

The Greater Hornby Market returns this Saturday, offering a vibrant mix of local crafts and delicious food. The market’s covered food area ensures you can enjoy local treats regardless of the forecast.

When: Saturday, 12 October, 10-2pm
Where: South Hornby Primary School, 35 Amyes Road, Hornby
How much: Free entry

More info here.

Days of Ice – Explore Antarctica


What’s on for kids this weekend: days of ice

Tūranga’s Days of Ice event is transforming our central library into a mini-Antarctica this Saturday. Forget your typical quiet library day – this is all about exploration and adventure. Kids can unleash their creativity crafting seals, challenge themselves with sailor-worthy knot-tying, and embark on an exciting penguin quest. But the real stars of the show? Three fluffy huskies named Manaaki, Theia, and Kenai, who are ready to meet their adoring public. Don’t forget to grab your Days of Ice Explore Antarctica passport and collect at least four stamps to be in to win awesome Antarctica-themed prizes.

When: Saturday, 12 October, 10-3.30pm
Where: Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square
How much: Free. Some activities require booking – click here for booking details.

More info here.

The Arts Centre Re-creating Recreation – Heritage Fun Zone

what's on for kids this weekend: Heritage Fun Zone

Ever wondered what kids did for kicks before the internet took over? Well, for a trip down memory lane, the Arts Centre’s Re-creating Recreation event on Sunday is not to be missed. This unique experience introduces children to games and activities from the past, such as skittles, quoits, hoops and a whole host of outdoor heritage games and activities from the 1800s.

When: Sunday, 13 October, 12-3pm
Where: The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, 2 Worcester Boulevard
How much: Free

More info here.

Featured image credited to The Arts Centre, image #1 credited to Japan Fiesta via Facebook, image #4 credited to The Arts Centre via Facebook, image #3 credited to International Antarctic Centre via Facebook,


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About the author

Picture of Lexi Davey

Lexi Davey

New to Christchurch with two kids and a dog, founder of nook, Lexi, has been hunting for family-friendly activities and unique things to do in the city since moving from Hong Kong in 2022. Finding herself endlessly Googling the same old articles, only to come up empty-handed, Lexi wanted to create a platform where parents across New Zealand could scroll with their morning coffee and be inspired to get out and explore (toddlers in tow).

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