Our pick of family-friendly events from 29 November – 1 December 2024. Here’s what’s on for kids in Christchurch this weekend…
This weekend is jam-packed with festive fun, thrilling openings, and a sprinkle of holiday magic. Whether you’re in the mood to shop, explore, or simply entertain the littlies, there’s something here to tick all the boxes. Here’s your go-to guide for family-friendly events in and around Christchurch.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids in Christchurch:
Halswell Twilight Market
Nothing says “welcome to the festive season” quite like a twilight market. Halswell’s Twilight Market boasts over 100 stalls, live music to set the vibe, and gourmet food trucks to keep the kids and your stomachs happy. Whether you’re hunting for handmade gifts or just soaking up the atmosphere, this market is the perfect Friday evening plan.
When: Friday, 29 November, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: 13 Meeking Place, Halswell
Cost: Free entry
More details here.
Ninja Valley Grand Opening
Strap in for a day of adrenaline-pumping fun at Ninja Valley’s grand opening. Think trampolines, climbing towers, and ninja courses galore. There’s even a Chinese lion dance performance at 10:30 AM and free food to keep the energy levels up. Did we mention the spot prizes? It’s the ultimate playground, and your kids (and maybe you) won’t want to leave.
When: Saturday, 30 November, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Where: Bush Inn Centre, Waimari and, Riccarton Road, Upper Riccarton
Cost: From $22 for a one-hour session. Book here.
More details here.
Miss Melody’s Christmas Party
Ready to boogie? Miss Melody’s Christmas Party is a whirlwind of music, bubbles, and dancing, topped off with a special visit from Santa. Don’t forget to bring a small, labelled gift for Santa to hand out.
When: Saturday, 30 November, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Mt Pleasant Community Centre
Cost: Koha appreciated. Please email [email protected] to confirm your attendance.
More details here.
Coca Cola Christmas in the Park
The event that needs no introduction. North Hagley Park transforms into a sea of festive cheer with live music, dazzling lights, and a fireworks finale. Bring a picnic, wrangle the kids, and settle in for Christchurch’s ultimate Christmas bash.
When: Saturday, 30 November, 7:30 PM
Where: North Hagley Park, 57 Rolleston Avenue
Cost: Free entry
More details here.
Shands Road Xmas Experience
Step into a world of holiday magic at this walk-through Christmas village. Expect light shows, model trains, and even a steampunk space fighter. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s guaranteed to impress the kids.
When: Saturday, 30 November – Monday, 30 December, 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Where: 650 Shands Road, Christchurch
Cost: $15 per adult, $5 per child
More details here.
Kids Christmas Party
The Cashmere Club is pulling out all the stops with its Kids Christmas Party. From bouncy castles to colouring competitions (with prizes!), it’s a kid’s perfect day out. Santa will be there too, so get those cameras ready.
When: Sunday, 1 December, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: 88 Hunter Terrace, Cashmere Club
Cost: Free
More details here.
Rangiora Christmas Festival
Victoria Park is the place to be for Rangiora’s Christmas Festival. Think bouncy castles, face painting, and all the candy floss your kids could dream of. Add some food trucks and coffee carts, and it’s the perfect family outing.
When: Sunday, 1 December, 10:00 AM – 12:45 PM
Where: Victoria Park, Rangiora
Cost: Free
More details here.
Ferrymead Alive – Christmas
Step back in time at Ferrymead Heritage Park’s Christmas celebration. With tram and train rides, pony rides, and plenty of festive fun.
When: Sunday, 1 December, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: 50 Ferrymead Park Drive
Cost: Entry fees apply; rides additional
More details here.
Rolleston Christmas Parade
Rolleston kicks off the festive season with a bang. Enjoy cultural performances, a bustling market, and the pièce de résistance—Santa’s Parade at 2 PM. Pro tip: bring a picnic blanket and make a day of it.
When: Sunday, 1 December, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Te Ara Ātea (Rolleston Library), Rolleston
Cost: Free
More details here.
Cubbin Concert
Cubbin Theatre Company brings its magical musical talents to the Cloisters Studio for a concert filled with original tunes and festive surprises. Tailored for little ones, this event is pure joy wrapped in a singalong.
When: Thursday, 28 November – Sunday, 1 December
Where: Cloisters Studio
Cost: $17.25 adults/children (babies under 6 months free)
More details here.
