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Australian Open 2025: Kids Activities and Family Fun
Are you Planning a family day out at the Australian Open 2025? This year’s tournament is packed with kids activities and family fun for everyone to enjoy, from Opening Week celebrations and Kids Tennis Day to the Arena Spectacular and AO Ballpark. This year’s Australian Open offers plenty of entertainment beyond the matches.
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Opening Week Celebrations
The Australian Open kicks off with Opening Week celebrations, giving kids the chance to receive a FREE Hot Shots racquet. From 6–10 January 2025, young tennis fans can claim one of 5,000 racquets distributed at the Fan Stage on Grand Slam Oval—a great way to start their tennis journey.
Catch all the action court-side during the high-stakes Qualifying matches, starting at 10 am from Monday, 6 January to Wednesday, 8 January, and from 11 am on Thursday, 9 January.
Get a glimpse behind the scenes with Open Practice sessions on Rod Laver Arena, running from 11 am to 4 pm, and on Tuesday, 7 January, from 11 am to 2.30 pm.
Date: 6 – 11 January 2025
Kids Tennis Day
Kids Tennis Day presented by Emirates is a must-visit event for the whole family. Bring the kids along for a day full of fun and excitement these summer holidays. Enjoy live performances, character appearances, arena spectaculars, and various engaging activities.
Date: Saturday 11 January 2025
Time: 8 am – 4 pm
Arena Show Spectacular
The Arena Spectacular at Rod Laver Arena brings the perfect blend of excitement for kids and families. Enjoy a dynamic show featuring dancing, singing, acrobatic feats, and appearances from tennis stars.
The show runs from 11 am to 11.45 am, with doors opening at 10.15 am.
Please note: An Arena Spectacular ticket is required for the 11 am show.
Date: Saturday 11 January 2025
Time: 11 am – 11.45 am
Price: $15 – $25
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AO Ballpark
AO Ballpark presented by Emirates will be open daily from 10 am to 7 pm. All tickets purchased from 12 – 26 January 2025 provide access to everything Ballpark has to offer.
Please note: AO Ballpark presented by Emirates will be closed during Opening Week (6 – 10 January 2025).
AO Ballpark Performances
Emma Memma
Bring the kids to the Happy Slam for a fun performance by Emma Memma at AO Ballpark on All Abilities Day.
Date: Tuesday 21 January 2025
Time: 11 – 11.30 am or 2 – 2.30 pm
Price: $15 – $35
Kids Rave with Lenny Pearce
Get ready for an epic dance party at the Kids Rave featuring Lenny Pearce.
Date: Wednesday 22 January 2025
Time: 11 – 11.30 am or 2 – 2.30 pm
Price: $15 – $35
Stage Shows
Join the action or relax in the shade with daily stage shows, games, and challenges hosted at the stage in AO Ballpark presented by Emirates. You will also have the chance to take photos with the AO trophies and meet beloved cartoon characters such as Peppa Pig, Octonauts, Hey Duggee, Paddington, Barney, and PJ Masks.
AO Ballpark Activities
Emirates Explorers and Little Travellers
Take on an exciting obstacle course and baggage drop challenge.
Hot Shots HQ
Hit the mini tennis courts, measure your serve speed, and visit the skills garden to work on your aim.
New Waterslide
Parents and kids can slide together on the 2.5m or 6m waterslides — don’t forget to bring your swimwear!
Social Quarter
Meet characters from Peppa Pig, PJ Masks, Octonauts, and more.
That’s not all. Families can also enjoy craft activities, tennis games, and more challenges for the whole family.
Date: 12 – 26 January 2025
Time: 10 am – 7 pm
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ): Australian Open 2025 – Families and Children
1. What activities are available for children and families at the Australian Open?
The Australian Open offers a wide range of activities for kids and families, including:
- AO Ballpark: A family-friendly area with activities like mini tennis courts, a waterslide, character meet-and-greets, stage shows, and more.
- Arena Spectacular: A lively performance featuring singing, dancing, acrobatics, and special appearances from tennis stars.
- Kids Tennis Day (presented by Emirates): A fun-filled day with performances, character appearances, and tennis-related activities.
- Emma Memma Performance: A fun performance for younger audiences on 21 January.
- Kids Rave with Lenny Pearce: An exciting dance party on 22 January.
- Hot Shots Racquet Giveaway: Kids can receive a free Hot Shots racquet during Opening Week (6–10 January).
2. When is AO Ballpark open?
AO Ballpark is open from 10am to 7pm daily from 12–26 January. It will be closed during the Opening Week (6–10 January).
3. Can I bring my child to the Australian Open?
Yes, the Australian Open is a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for children, from tennis-related games and challenges to live performances and character meet-and-greets.
4. Is there a special ticket required for children?
Children under 5 years of age can attend the Australian Open for free. For children aged 5–15, discounted tickets are available. Some events, like the Arena Spectacular, will require a separate ticket, so be sure to check the event details.
5. What is Kids Tennis Day?
Kids Tennis Day is a special event designed for younger fans. It includes performances, interactive activities, and appearances from tennis stars and family-friendly characters. It’s a perfect day for kids to get involved with the Australian Open.
6. Are there any family-friendly areas or facilities?
Yes, the Australian Open has a variety of family-friendly areas, including designated spaces with shade, food options suitable for kids, and family lounges. There are also accessible facilities for families with young children, including changing stations and rest areas.
7. Is there a quieter environment for families with sensory sensitivities?
Yes, the Australian Open provides relaxed and sensory-friendly sessions for families who prefer a quieter environment. These sessions offer a less crowded and more calming atmosphere, with reduced noise and dimmed lighting.
8. Can you meet tennis players at the Australian Open?
While meeting players in person is not guaranteed, there are opportunities to see them during the Arena Spectacular or on court during matches. Additionally, there will be appearances from fan-favourite characters throughout AO Ballpark.
9. What should I bring with me to the Australian Open with children?
We recommend bringing:
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection
- Comfortable shoes for walking around the venue
- A reusable water bottle (there are water refill stations)
- Swimwear if you plan to use the waterslides at AO Ballpark
- A camera or smartphone for photos with characters and trophies
10. Can I bring food into the Australian Open?
Yes, you can bring small amounts of food to the Australian Open, but there are some restrictions
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We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.
