Get ready for a fun-packed weekend in Darwin on January 31st and February 1st, 2026! We've found some awesome kid-friendly activities, including a special Fringe Festival event for the little legends on Saturday and some great family spots to check out on Sunday.
See our top picks
Splash Sundays at Darwin Waterfront
Darwin Waterfront
Free water slides and splash fun for kids 12 and under!
Mini Makers at MAGNT (Check Availability)
Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory (MAGNT)
Free, indoor, hands-on art and craft activities linked to current exhibitions.
Explore George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
Plenty of open space, playgrounds, and pretty gardens for little ones to wander safely.
· January 31
3FRINGE KIDDOS AT FRINGE WORLD 2026 : School holidays just got more exciting as the Darwin Fringe Festival brings magic and music to the stage for kids! This is your chance to see what the Fringe buzz is all about with shows specifically for younger audiences.A limited-run festival event offering unique live entertainment specifically curated for children and families.
MINI MAKERS AT MAGNT (CHECK AVAILABILITY)FREE : If you have little creatives, check out MAGNT's Discovery Centre for play-based learning linked to current exhibitions. It's a great way to keep the 3-6 year olds engaged in an indoor space.It’s a free, high-quality, indoor activity perfect for hands-on learning in a calm environment.
DARWIN WATERFRONT WAVE LAGOON SWIM : Take the kids for a safe swim without worrying about crocs or stingers! The Wave Lagoon has gentle swells for younger ones and bigger waves for the older kids to conquer.A guaranteed safe swimming spot in Darwin, perfect for families visiting the city centre.
· February 1
3SPLASH SUNDAYS AT DARWIN WATERFRONTFREE : Cool off this Sunday with some free water fun at the Darwin Waterfront! They'll have waterslides and splash activities ready for the little ones to enjoy before it gets too hot.One of the few free, dedicated kid-friendly water activities available this weekend.
MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKETFREE : Head down for a stunning Darwin sunset, grab some amazing multicultural street food, and wander through the vibrant stalls. It's the perfect way to end the weekend as a family.A buzzing, iconic Darwin experience that offers heaps of sensory stimulation for all ages, especially the food!
EXPLORE GEORGE BROWN DARWIN BOTANIC GARDENSFREE : Spend a relaxed Sunday morning wandering through the gardens—it's huge with plenty of space for kids to explore. Pack a picnic or grab a bite at Eva's Cafe afterwards.It’s a classic, free, open space where kids can run around and enjoy nature without set schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Darwin this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 31st - Feb 1st) you can enjoy the free Splash Sundays at the Darwin Waterfront from 10 am to 1 pm on Sunday, and the free entry to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market on Sunday evening (from 4 pm). Don't forget the always-free George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens for exploration!
Are there any unique, limited-time shows for kids this weekend?
Yes! Check out the FRINGE Kiddos events happening as part of the Darwin Fringe Festival on Saturday, January 31st. It's a great, unique chance to see live performances geared towards families before the festival wraps up.
What is a good indoor option if the weather is too hot?
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) offers free entry and has the Discovery Centre which hosts 'Mini Makers' activities, providing a cool, air-conditioned space for creative play.
