Guide to school holiday activities in Camberwell Junction

Guide to school holiday activities in Camberwell Junction

The school holidays are here, and after a busy term of learning, sport, music lessons and packed lunchboxes, it’s time for families to relax, recharge and make some memories together.

Whether you’re looking to keep the kids active, unleash their creativity, hunt for hidden treasures or simply enjoy a well-earned coffee while they burn off some energy, Camberwell Junction has plenty to keep the whole family entertained these school holidays.

Here’s our guide to making the most of your break.

Freshen up for the new term

School holidays are the perfect excuse to get organised before the next term begins.

Stock up on pens, notebooks, art supplies, and other classroom essentials at Kmart and Officeworks, or let the kids choose something a little more special from Paper Republic or Smiggle to help them start the new term in style.

If you’ve suddenly realised your child has grown another few centimetres overnight, now’s also a great time to refresh their wardrobe. Pick up everyday essentials from Kmart, Bonds Outlet, and Shoes & Sox, or ensure growing feet are properly fitted with expert advice from Active Feet and The Athlete’s Foot.

Looking for a bargain? Don’t forget to browse the ever-changing ALDI Special Buys aisle. You never know what hidden gems you might discover.

And for families looking to make more sustainable choices, extend the life of favourite shoes, school bags and accessories with repairs from Arcade Shoe Repairs or Arthur’s Shoe Repairs.

Keep kids active and creative

If the thought of hearing “I’m bored” before breakfast fills you with dread, Camberwell Junction has plenty of ways to keep little minds and bodies engaged these school holidays.

For children bursting with energy, Academy Jiu Jitsu offers programs for kids and teens designed to build confidence, discipline, and fitness in a supportive environment. Younger children aren’t left out either, with specialised classes available for 3 to 5-year-olds to introduce them to the fundamentals before they progress to formal lessons.

Got a budding performer at home? X Dance Station‘s holiday program is a fantastic way for children to stay active while learning new skills and meeting friends. Flexible class passes make it easy to try a single class or immerse themselves in a full week of dance.

For those who prefer paintbrushes over punches, Rachel Grove Art Studio offers a dedicated school holiday program, or if you want a bespoke experience, she does private art sessions for children of all ages. Whether attending individually or with friends, young artists can explore their creativity while developing new techniques and confidence in a relaxed studio setting.

Families looking for a hands-on experience together should consider Blueming Pottery. From painting ready-made ceramics to crafting your own mug from clay, these beginner-friendly workshops offer a fun and memorable activity for parents and children alike. Best of all, you’ll leave with a handmade keepsake to remember the holidays by.

Refuel at family-friendly cafés

Every successful school holiday adventure needs a snack break, and thankfully, Camberwell Junction has no shortage of family-friendly cafés to recharge between activities.

Minori Café continues to be a favourite among local families, pairing delicious Japanese-inspired dishes with artisan matcha and taro lattes. Parents can enjoy a moment of peace while little ones explore the secure indoor play area.

If you’re planning a visit to the iconic Camberwell Sunday Market, make MOB your next stop. Its spacious dining area and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place to recover after a morning spent treasure hunting through hundreds of market stalls.

For those sunny winter afternoons, Choclatte offers cosy outdoor seating complete with heaters and a tucked-away laneway where children can stretch their legs away from traffic.

And when only ice cream will do, Johnny’s Ice Cream delivers more than just a sweet treat. With its retro diner-inspired fit-out, neon signs and colourful booths, a visit feels like stepping onto a movie set. It’s an experience that’s almost as enjoyable as the ice cream itself.

Football-loving families can also soak up the atmosphere at Camberwell Place, where free FIFA match screenings will be shown outside REX Espresso from June 11 to July 19. Grab a coffee, find a seat and enjoy the action together.

Free and low-cost holiday fun

Keeping the kids entertained during school holidays doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. There are plenty of affordable ways to fill the days with fun, creativity and adventure.

Just a short trip away, Hawthorn Arts Centre is hosting Wall of Magic Creatures by acclaimed artist Kate Beynon. This imaginative and colourful exhibition is completely free to visit and runs until July 25, making it an easy addition to any holiday outing.

Also at the Hawthorn Arts Centre, music lovers can enjoy The Gallery Series, a free lunchtime concert program held every Wednesday from 1pm to 2pm. Running through to July 1, the performances offer a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to live music in a welcoming setting.

For rainy days at home, the City of Boroondara has a collection of free online craft resources designed to inspire creativity. Children can create upcycled wall hangings, make DIY seed bombs or colour illustrations inspired by local landmarks and neighbourhoods.

Kill two birds with one stone by taking the little ones with you while you grocery shop at The Camberwell Fresh Food Market. Immerse them in the sights and smells of the local market, and let them help pick out fresh fruit and vegetables for lunchbox ideas while you grab a quick, child-friendly snack from Bao Bao Go or Trang Bakery.

When the weather calls for an indoor adventure, head to the Rivoli Cinemas. Settle in for family-friendly blockbusters including Toy Story 5 and Supergirl, or catch extended screenings of Super Mario Galaxy and The Mandalorian & Grogu. With budget-friendly tickets for children and no shortage of popcorn, it remains a dependable holiday staple, ensuring hours of entertainment for everyone.

And of course, no Camberwell school holiday guide would be complete without a visit to the iconic Camberwell Sunday Market. Packed with toys, books, collectibles, records and vintage treasures, the market turns every visit into a treasure hunt. Children love the endless rows of stalls and unexpected discoveries, while parents enjoy browsing for their own hidden gems. It’s an affordable morning out that never feels the same twice.

With activities tailored to every child’s passions, this winter break is the perfect time to explore your own backyard, create lasting memories together, and enjoy everything Camberwell Junction has to offer local families.

Tips for Parents

• Book early: Workshops and camps often fill quickly.
• Double-check age requirements before booking.
• For art and craft activities, confirm whether materials are provided.
• Have a wet-weather backup plan — cinemas and art studios are great options.

Explore additional school holiday programs and events by visiting our What’s On page.