The January school holidays can be tricky. On some days it’s too hot to do anything, you might run out of ideas, and you probably will become accustomed to the phrase “I’m bored”. We’ve come up with a list of our top five things you can do in Bendigo, these school holidays.

Get off the beaten track

The ultimate horse riding experience for all children, from beginners to more confident riders, there is something for everyone! Activities include riding lessons, trail rides and mounted games, horse care, a BBQ lunch and clay play. Your child will be in safe hands with fully qualified instructors and all the safety gear provided.
Bookings are essential – call the Ironbark Riding Centre on 5436 1565.

Dance your way through the Gallery

This one is for parents too. Put on a pair of headphones and follow Vern through the Bendigo Art Gallery, as you dance your way through the exhibitions and interact with the artworks in a whole new way. You’ll be hearing tunes from the 70’s to now, with a great mix designed for you to get your groove on. Everyone is welcome, and for $5 each, this is the perfect school holiday outing. Kids under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Bookings are essential – call 5434 6088.

School holiday fun at Bendigo Art Gallery

The workshops this summer are based around the Bendigo Art Gallery’s current exhibition Frida Kahlo, her photos. There are sessions for kids aged 4 to 7 years, which focus on Mexican folk crafts and Frida’s self-portraits, and kids aged 8 to 14 years can learn the art of printmaking. You can also drop into the Gallery for Open Range Art, from the 15th to 17th with no bookings required. To secure a spot in the workshops, call 5434 6088.

Bendigo’s biggest waterslide

A hidden gem and the perfect place to play on a hot summer afternoon. Why not pack some snacks and cook up a storm on the barbeques (which are free to use!). There are plenty of chairs and spots to stretch out under the shade while the kids take on the Big Bendi Waterslide. You can pick up a $15 unlimited slide pass, or if the whole family wants to join in the fun its $49 for four sliders – non-sliders are free. Bendigo Water World is open every day from 10am to 7pm during the school holidays.

Head to the outdoor cinema

Bendigo Summer in the Parks is hosting a number of screenings in changing locations around Central Victoria. All of the sessions are free. Remember your own chair, pack some snacks and settle in for a great night.
11th January: The Greatest Showman, Barrack Reserve, Heathcote
17th January: Zero Waste Movie Screening -The Lorax, Soccer Fields, Spring Gully.
18th January: Sherlock Gnomes, Recreation Reserve, Lockwood South
22nd January: Incredibles 2, Recreation Reserve, Raywood