Our pick of family-friendly events from 7 – 9, February 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch…
The weekend is calling, and Canterbury has answered with a cracking lineup of family-friendly events! Whether your kids love kites, opera, pool parties, or a good old-fashioned craft session, there’s something to keep the whole whānau entertained. So round up the troops, plan your day, and make some memories—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:
Happy Chinese New Year Festival 2025
Ring in the Year of the Snake at this vibrant Lunar New Year celebration! Enjoy dazzling fireworks, cultural performances, lantern displays, and a mouthwatering selection of food stalls showcasing Chinese and Asian cuisine. Please note that sky lanterns will not be part of the event.
When: Friday, 7 February, 5pm–10pm; Saturday, 8 February, 11am–10pm
Where: Victoria Square, Corner Colombo & Armagh Street, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
Selwyn Kite Day 2025
Let the wind do the work as kites of all shapes and sizes fill the sky at this colourful, family-friendly event. Peter Lynn Kites will be putting on a show, but don’t be shy—bring your own kite and give it a go! Feeling crafty? Pop in between 11am and 12pm to make a sustainable kite with ReDiscover, using upcycled materials from the Pines Resource Recovery Park. Under-12s will need an adult to help. Food and coffee trucks will be there, so bring your reusable cups and plates.
When: Saturday, 8 February, 11am–3pm
Where: Foster Park, 99 Broadlands Dr, Rolleston
How much: Free
More details here.
Family Makerspace: Lunar New Year Shadow Puppets
Celebrate the Year of the Snake with a hands-on creative session at Tūranga. Design and craft your own shadow puppet, then bring it to life in a storytelling session with your whānau. No registration needed—just drop in and get crafting!
When: Saturday, 8 February, 2.30pm–3.30pm
Where: Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
The Billy Goat’s Gruff – Toi Toi Opera
Opera for kids? Absolutely! Toi Toi Opera’s take on The Billy Goat’s Gruff is a fun and accessible introduction to the world of opera, with music inspired by Mozart, Donizetti, and Rossini. When three little goats encounter a bully on a bridge, they have to put their heads together to find a solution. A heartwarming story about friendship, kindness, and second chances. Outdoors in the North Quad, or inside The Great Hall if it rains.
When: Saturday, 8 February, 11am–12pm; Sunday, 9 February, 11am–12pm
Where: The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
Fantasizer’s Festival Fête Day
A day of creativity, community, and fun! Expect a lively swing band, pony rides, teapot racing, market stalls, face painting, food carts, and plenty of games and performances to keep the kids entertained.
When: Saturday, 8 February, 9am–2pm
Where: Riccarton Park Events, 165 Racecourse Road, Sockburn
How much: Free
More details here.
Mitre10 Sparks 2025
Christchurch’s most spectacular night of music and fireworks is back! The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra will set the stage for an evening of live music, followed by a dazzling fireworks finale. Pack a picnic or check out the food vendors on site.
When: Saturday, 8 February, 6.30pm–9.40pm (Fireworks at 9.30pm)
Where: North Hagley Park, Rolleston Ave, Christchurch Central
How much: Free
More details here.
Pool Party Summer Sports Day
Make a splash at Jellie Park’s biggest summer party! Giant inflatables, obstacle courses, and Bull Rush bouncy castles will keep the kids busy, while Christchurch City Libraries will have books on hand for a chilled-out reading break. Meet your favourite Rams and Tactix players from 12.30pm to 2pm, groove to DJ beats, and cool off with free Streets ice cream (while it lasts). Manu competition and scavenger hunt included!
When: Saturday, 8 February, 12pm–5pm
Where: Jellie Park, 295 Ilam Road, Burnside, Christchurch
How much: General pool admission applies
More details here.
Waitangi Day Wonders – Creative Kiwi Crafts
Celebrate Waitangi Day with Envirokids! Drop in for creative activities that explore the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi and honour Māori culture through hands-on art. A great way for kids to learn, create, and connect.
When: Saturday, 8 February, 10am–1pm
Where: The Kiosk, Christchurch Botanic Gardens
How much: Free
More details here.
Free Tumble Session with Acro with Amy
Thinking about enrolling your child in acro classes? This is the perfect taster session! Kids can bounce, roll, and flip on AirTracks, mats, and gear, while meeting the teachers and checking out the studio. No registration needed—just turn up!
When: Saturday, 8 February – 1.30pm–2.15pm (6–18 years) & 2.15pm–3pm (Under 5s)
Where: Evolve Studios, 98 Carlyle Street
How much: Free
More details here.
Sunday Funday at The Lil Brew
A relaxed Sunday Funday with something for everyone! Clearance sales on kids’ retail items, $2 ice blocks and popcorn, live music from 11am–1pm, and delicious coffee and acai bowls. $1 from every purchase goes to Koru Care Christchurch, with an extra $5 donation for every keep cup sold.
When: Sunday, 9 February, 10am–1pm
Where: 186A Main Rd, Redcliffs, Christchurch
How much: Free entry
More details here.
