Families looking for something to do over the April school holidays will find plenty happening at Fed Square, with a packed schedule of free activities, film screenings and hands on workshops set to run throughout the break.
The city landmark is hosting a mix of food events, outdoor movies, comedy and interactive experiences designed to keep both kids and adults busy while exploring the CBD.
Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation Director and CEO Katrina Sedgwick said the program aims to create a welcoming place for families during the holidays.
“At Fed Square, we’re proud to offer a vibrant program of free events across the school holidays that spark curiosity, creativity and fun for kids – from hands-on food experiences and outdoor cinema to interactive performances and playful learning,” she said.
“It’s a chance for families to spend the day in the heart of Melbourne discovering, laughing and making memories.”
One of the headline events is the return of the Little Food Festival on 15 and 16 April. Now in its eighth year, the free event invites children to explore where food comes from through cooking activities, planting seedlings and learning about healthy eating and sustainability. Guests include founder Dr Sandro Demaio, produce expert Thanh “Fruit Nerd” Truong and gardening presenter Costa Georgiadis.
The Square’s Outdoor Cinema also continues through early April, starting with a run of family comedies across the Easter long weekend from 3 to 6 April. Films include The Princess Bride, The Parent Trap, Paddington 2 and The Mitchells vs. the Machines.
From 7 to 9 April, Studio Ghibli Afternoons returns with screenings of beloved animated films including Kiki’s Delivery Service, My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away.
Elsewhere in the precinct, the Test Garden Open Day on 11 April will focus on insects and biodiversity with talks, activities and performances, including giant ant characters from Melbourne theatre company Polyglot Theatre.
Comedy also arrives in the Square with The (Very) Big Laugh Out on 3 and 4 April, featuring performers from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Families can also explore exhibitions nearby including Top Arts 2026 at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia and Playschool: Come and Play! at ACMI, which celebrates the 60th anniversary of the long running children’s show.
For Fed Square’s full school holiday program, visit fedsquare.com/april-school-holidays
