Think gardens are boring? Think again! During the winter school holidays, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha are bursting with events and activities for kids. So why not pack a picnic and get the little ones outside to enjoy the wintry sun on their faces and the crunch of autumnal leaves under their feet?
Best of all, most of the activities are free or low-cost, so you can enjoy holiday entertainment without breaking the budget.
School holiday activities Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha
The 56 hectares of lush native and exotic plants at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha are open daily and offer free guided walks at 11 am and 1 pm, or you can pick up a map and enjoy the gardens at your own leisurely pace. Thereโs even a playground, cafe and a hide โnโ seek childrenโs trail to discover. Kids of all ages will also love these special events, just in time for the school holidays
Treasure Hunt
Daily Monday 27 June โ Sunday 3 July โ Between 10am-2pm
Crack the clues to discover the natural treasures hidden within the Botanic Gardens at Mt Coot-tha. Work alone or in a group and explore the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha to solve this exciting treasure hunt. We have an activity suitable for ages 12 and under with two treasure hunt activities to choose from. Please bring a pencil or pen and please wear a hat and enclosed shoes. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre.
No bookings required. For more information call (07) 3403 2535. More information
Art in Nature
Tuesday 28 & Thursday 30 June โ Sessions at 10am-11am, 11:30am-12:30pm & 1pm-2pm
Immerse yourself in the natural art studio that is the Botanic Gardens and create an ephemeral artwork from art materials that you discover yourself. Gather coloured leaves, sticks, seeds and flowers to create your work of art. Follow in the footsteps of artists such as Andy Goldsworthy of the Art in Nature movement and connect with the beauty around you as you create an artwork to leave for others to enjoy in our ‘gallery’. Don’t forget to bring your camera to take a photo of your finished piece! Meet at the Lagoon Shelter Shed.
No bookings required. For more information call (07) 3403 2535. More information
Funki Fungi with Beatrix Potter
Tuesday 28 & Thursday 30 June โ Sessions at 10am-11am, 11:15am-12:15pm & 1pm โ 2pm
Meet Beatrix Potter โ author, illustrator and scientist. Beatrix was curious about the natural world – especially fungi – which she studied and illustrated. Someone who studies fungi is called a mycologist. Be like Beatrix โ get to know fungi and sketch these weird and wonderful life forms. Meet at the Administration lawn marquee.
Bookings required via Eventbrite or for more information call (07) 3403 2535. More information
Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Crafts and Games
Tuesday 5 & Thursday 7 July โ between 10am-2pm
NAIDOC Week celebrates the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Learn the ins and outs of making string from natural fibres, and sharpen your coordination skills with some traditional aboriginal games that have been played in Australia for many thousands of years. Bring a hat, water bottle and wear closed shoes. Meet at the Bandstand Lawn.
No bookings required. For more information call (07) 3403 2535.
Chocolate at Risk
Tuesday 5 & Thursday 7 July โ Sessions 10am-11.30am & 12.30-2pm
The Cacao tree (Theobroma cacao) produces seeds from which we make cocoa and chocolate. Imagine life without either of these yummy treats! Under threat from pests and disease, the Cacao tree is at risk. Come see a real Cacao tree (currently fruiting), make choc chip cookies and hot cocoa, and nibble some cacao nibs while you learn a little about the history of chocolate. Meet at the Kitchen in the Garden.
Bookings required via Eventbrite. For more information call (07) 3403 2535.
Kids Terrarium Workshop
Friday 8 July 10am – 12 noon
Bring your kids along to the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha, where they can get their hands dirty making their very own miniature glass garden to take home and enjoy. During this workshop, participants will get the chance to learn the basics of successful terrarium-making and plant their own miniature glass garden. All terrarium materials – including glass jar, plants, and a choice of animal (Dinosaur, Frog, Owl or Mushroom) – will be provided to create your own miniature world.
.
Light refreshments and beverages provided. Meet at the Auditorium. Workshop is suitable for children aged 6-14 years and parental supervision is required.
Bookings required. To book visit: https://brisbaneworkshops.com.au/event/kidsterrarium-workshop
Join the conversation