By ANNA USHER

Staying home these school holidays? Check out our list of fun school holiday activities this July. Adventure, imagination and action await!

Local Councils are featuring a line-up of events to inspire young minds and connect families with nature, creativity and community. Including bushwalks, workshops, creative classes and a month-long dress-up competition, there’s something for every child to enjoy, and most of it is free.

Check out what’s on below. Bookings are essential for most activities.

Friday 4 July to Sunday 13 July: Roller Skating at Lane Cove
A very special open-air roller rink brings winter fun for all ages, with themed skate nights, live DJs, great food and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Lane Cove village. Whether you’re an experienced skater or trying it for the first time, the Roll-a-Round is the place to be these holidays. From 10am daily. $10 (including skate hire). BOOK HERE

Friday 4 July to Sunday 20 July: Drop-in Weaving
Master the basics of weaving and turn old CDs into beautiful hanging art (while stocks last). For families with children aged 0 to 3 at Stanton Library.

Sunday 6 July, 10am to 1pm: Winter Bushwalk
Learn about native plants and discover the beauty of Balls Head Reserve. For ages 12+ starting at The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.

Monday 7 July to Wednesday 9 July 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM: Hoops Camp – Norths Basketball
For ages 5-13 The ultimate day of hoops with mates. Play games, learn new skills, and hang out on court. Whether you’re just starting out or already balling, it’s the perfect way to play, improve and make new friends.

Monday 7 July: Gaming Day at Mosman Library
Come along and challenge your friends to board games or online gaming including iPad and PC games. Children must be in school years K-6. Free event, no booking required.

Tuesday 8 July: Glow in the Dark Jars at Mosman Library
Join us to learn about bioluminescence as we create our own glow in the dark jars! Children must be in school years 3-6. Free event, bookings essential, HERE

Monday 7-11 July and 14-18 July: PCYC North Sydney Holiday Programs
A Fun Introduction to Mixed Activities in Safe and Friendly Environments! PCYC programs start at 9am and finish at 3pm, with drop off available from 8am and pick up until 4pm. INFO HERE

Tuesday 8 July, 11am to 12pm: Loose Parts Play
Kids will build, invent and play using reclaimed materials from Reverse Garbage – putting their problem-solving skills and imaginations to the test. For ages 3 to 6 at The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.

Wednesday 9 July: Movie Night at Mosman Youth
You get to vote on the film, so it’s guaranteed to be a fan favourite. We’re talking pizza, popcorn, and a cozy vibe—perfect for kicking back with your crew. Movie starts at 5:30pm, food lands at 6pm—get in early to grab your seat and snacks! This holiday program is for high school aged young people & those in Year 6 only.
INFO HERE

Thursday 10 July and Friday 11 July: North Sydney United School Holiday Camp
North Sydney United Football Club offers two full-day camps for children over 7 and a half-day camp for those under 7, providing an excellent way to keep kids entertained during the holidays. Overseen by a friendly coaching team, these camps help children learn football skills, develop teamwork, improve confidence in a fun environment, and enhance their social skills.

Thursday 10 July, 5.30pm to 8.30pm: Spotlight Walk and Talk
Meet native wildlife and take a guided spotlight walk to observe nocturnal animals. Please bring a torch to light your path starting at The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.

Friday 11 July, 1pm to 4pm: Make Your Own Merch at Mosman Library
Bring your ideas to life in our merch making workshop. Design and create unique t-shirts, tote bags, stickers, badges and more using the Cricut. All materials provided, bring your own shirts or bags if desired. Afternoon tea provided. Young people must be in school years 6-10. Free event, bookings essential, HERE

Friday 11 July, 10.30am to 12pm: Bird Walk Bingo
Spot and identify birds on this fun, interactive walk. Recommended for ages 5+ starting at The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability.

Friday 11 July, 4.30pm to 5.30pm: Plushie Animal Sleepover
Pop on your PJs, grab your plushie, and enjoy a Storytime with fuzzy songs and stories at Stanton Library

Monday 14 July, 10am to 11am and 11.30am to 12.30pm: Writing Masterclass with Will Kostakis
Come join our writing masterclass with our Young Writers’ Award judge and award-winning author Will Kostakis. For ages 11 to 18 at Stanton Library.

Monday 14 July, 11am to 12pm: Nature Art
Learn the art of nature illustration with bestselling children’s author Yuval Zommer (The Big Book series). Follow along with a step-by-step crafting activity to make your very own piece of nature-inspired art to take home and keep at Stanton Library.

Tuesday 15 July, 10:30 to 1pm: Japanese Cooking Class for Kids at Crows Nest Community Centre
Join for a hands on Japanese workshop designed for kids aged 5-10. In a small group setting (max. 10 children), your child will enjoy a cultural experience filled with food, creativity, and fun. They will learn sushi and matcha making as well as cupcake decorating.

Thursday 17 July, 9.30am to 10.30am and 11am to 11.30am: Mother Goose Storytime
Join in for some very special Rhyme Time sessions during the school holidays, featuring Mother Goose at Stanton Library.