The school holidays are just around the corner, and Lismore is packed with activities to keep families entertained. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, creative workshops, cultural experiences, or family-friendly events, there's something for everyone in our vibrant community. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best activities and events to enjoy in Lismore this school holiday season:

1. Explore the Great Outdoors in Lismore & Ballina 

Lismore's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for family adventures. Here are a few outdoor activities to enjoy:

• Nature Walks and Parks: Lismore is surrounded by beautiful natural spots. Take the family on a nature walk at one of the many national parks in the area, such as Nightcap National Park or Border Ranges National Park. These parks offer trails suitable for all ages and provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and explore the region's unique flora and fauna.
• Day Trips to Nearby Attractions: Consider planning a day trip to nearby natural attractions like Summerland Farm or some natural attractions such as Minyon Falls or Rocky Creek Dam. These locations offer stunning scenery and are perfect spots for a family picnic or a day of exploration. Enjoy the breathtaking views, and let the kids splash around in nature's playgrounds​. Here's some helpful info.
• Lismore Farmers Market & Ballina Markets: The Lismore farmers markets are held every Saturday morning at the Lismore Showground from 8.30am to 11.30am. This market offers a variety of fresh, local produce and handmade goods. It’s not just a shopping trip; it's an educational experience where kids can learn about local farming and the importance of fresh, healthy food. Spend your Saturday mornings meeting local growers and picking up delicious ingredients for your family meals. Ballina has there markets every Sunday morning 7.00am to 11.00am at Commemoration Park.
• Byron Bay Day Trip: Just an hour's drive from Lismore, Byron Bay offers beautiful beaches and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. Spend the day at the beach, take a walk to the lighthouse, and enjoy the stunning coastal views. It's a great option for a day trip that combines relaxation and exploration.
• Evans Head Day Trip – Where the Evans River flows into the Pacific Ocean, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Enjoy the surf beaches or relax by the calm waters of the Evans Head River Beach. Try your hand at fishing from the riverbank or sand flats, or explore the natural beauty of the area on one of the many walking trails such as the Dirrawong Reserve walking tracks. When you have worked up an appetite, grab lunch at the Seafood Co-op, RSL Club, the local hotel, or one of the many local eateries in town. See the day trip map here

2. Springtime Activities at Home 

If you prefer staying home during the school holidays, spring is the perfect time to get creative and enjoy quality family time. Here are some ideas for at-home activities:

• Garden Together: Spring is the ideal season for planting flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Get the kids involved in gardening by planting a small garden bed or even creating a herb garden in pots. It's a fun way to teach children about nature, growth, and responsibility. Plus, they’ll love watching their plants grow over the holidays. See some tips
• Spring Crafts: Use the beauty of spring as inspiration for crafts. Gather materials like leaves, flowers, and twigs from the backyard to create nature-inspired art. You can make leaf prints, flower crowns, or even a DIY bird feeder to attract wildlife to your garden. Craft Ideas Here
• Outdoor Picnics: If you have a backyard or nearby park, set up an outdoor picnic. Let the kids help prepare the food, lay out a blanket, and enjoy a meal in the fresh spring air. It's a simple yet delightful way to spend a sunny afternoon without leaving home.
• DIY Spring Cleaning Challenge: Make spring cleaning fun by turning it into a family challenge. Create a list of tasks and turn it into a game with small rewards for completing each task. It's a productive way to welcome the new season while teaching kids the importance of helping around the house.
• Book Reading: Gather spring-themed books and create a special reading nook either indoors or outside. Spend some quiet time reading together. You can even turn it into a storytelling session where each family member gets a chance to read or make up their own spring stories.
• Outdoor Spring Picnics: Take advantage of the warmer weather by having a family picnic in your backyard. Prepare some easy, healthy snacks, and bring out a picnic blanket for a lovely lunch surrounded by nature. Add some fun with lawn games like frisbee, sack races, or a scavenger hunt.
• Cooking with Local Produce: Visit the local farmers market or a store to pick out seasonal produce like strawberries, asparagus, and fresh herbs. Spend the day cooking a meal together using these ingredients.Like some of these ideas.  Simple recipes like salads, fruit smoothies, or homemade pizzas with fresh toppings can be both delicious and fun to make. 

With so many activities and events, Lismore is the ideal destination for a fun-filled school holiday. Whether your family enjoys the great outdoors, creative workshops, cultural experiences, or simply spending quality time together, there’s something to suit every interest. Make this holiday season a memorable one by exploring all that Lismore has to offer!

Keep it simple; make it memorable

Kids often crave the downtime that school holidays bring. While filling their schedules with all the fun activities available these days is tempting, keeping it simple and slowing things down can create some of the best memories – especially if you can take some time out to enjoy things with them. Getting your kids involved in planning their holiday fun will ensure that their interests are taken into account, that they’re excited about the weeks ahead, and you’ll approach them feeling as cool as a cucumber.

For more information on these events or to discover other activities, visit Lismore's Council or Visit Lismore websites. 
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