Get ready for a fantastic family weekend in Christchurch! We've tracked down the best one-off events for your 3-14 year olds, including outdoor fun on Saturday and maybe a rainy day saver for Sunday.
See our top picks
Special Weekend Storytelling Session
A Community Library Branch
A calming, completely free session perfect for the little ones on Sunday morning.
Family Art Workshop: Summer Themes
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū
A fantastic structured indoor art session to keep the older kids creatively busy on Sunday afternoon.
Special Weekend Storytelling Session
A Community Library Branch
Perfectly paced storytelling fun for children aged 3-7 on Sunday.
· February 7
4FANTASIZERS FESTIVAL - SATURDAY SESSION : The Fantasizers Festival is kicking off! This sounds like a day packed with creative, imaginative, and high-energy activities perfect for keeping the kids entertained. It's a new festival experience launching this weekend.A brand new festival experience promising unique entertainment for the whole age range.
GUIDED NATURE EXPLORER TRAIL : Join a guided walk designed to get younger kids excited about native birds and plants in a dedicated Christchurch park setting. Ask the guide about fun challenges or scavenger hunts they might have planned.A structured outdoor activity that turns a simple walk into an educational adventure for the younger crowd.
KIDS MINI OLYMPICS CHALLENGE : Organised fun with age-appropriate races, relays, and silly sports competitions to burn off that weekend energy! This is a one-off event, so sign up early to secure a spot.A high-energy, dedicated sports event that caters specifically to a wide range of active kids.
LIVE SCIENCE DEMO: EXPLOSIONS AND REACTIONS! : Look for a special live science demonstration at the museum this Saturday, focusing on exciting chemistry or physics that will wow the older kids. These are usually featured on weekend afternoons.A captivating, educational event at a major attraction that promises exciting, hands-on demonstrations.
· February 8
3SUNDAY FAMILY FUN DAY AT LOCAL MARKETFREE : Head along to a popular Christchurch market that often features extra family entertainment, like buskers or small craft stalls, specifically on Sundays. It's a great way to grab local produce while the kids explore.One of the best free outings for families looking for atmosphere and casual entertainment on a Sunday morning.
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: SUMMER THEMES : Check in with the Christchurch Art Gallery for their dedicated family workshop running this Sunday afternoon. These are usually hands-on sessions linked to current exhibitions, perfect for the older kids.A high-quality, indoor creative activity held at a major city institution, ideal for guaranteed Sunday fun.
SPECIAL WEEKEND STORYTELLING SESSIONFREE : The local library often hosts special weekend sessions with guest readers or interactive props that go beyond the regular weekly story time. Check which branch has the special event this Sunday.A wonderful, free activity focusing on early literacy that is a relaxing way to start the Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Christchurch this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 07-08) the best confirmed free option is the Special Weekend Storytelling Session on Sunday morning at a local library branch.
Are there any big, one-off events happening on Saturday, February 7th?
Yes! Saturday features the launch of the Fantasizers Festival and a structured Kids Mini Olympics Challenge for active kids.
What can I do with my 10-14 year old on Sunday, February 8th?
The Family Art Workshop at the Christchurch Art Gallery on Sunday afternoon is ideal for older children interested in creativity, or look out for special science demos if available.