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Creative Fun at NGV Kids Summer Festival 2025
The NGV Kids Summer Festival is back, offering families a week of free events packed with creativity and fun. At NGV Australia, children can explore the Cats & Dogs exhibition, create their own animal ears, draw pet portraits with guidance from artists, and enjoy story time sessions featuring tales of curious cats and playful pups. Over at NGV International, kids can discover the vibrant Kusama for Kids exhibition and participate in hands-on art-making workshops. This festival provides an inspiring mix of artistic activities and interactive experiences, making it a highlight for young visitors during the school holidays.
NGV Kids Summer Festival runs from 1 – 17 January 2025.
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WHAT’S ON
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
Saturday 11 January 2025
LAUNCH DAY
The Kids Summer Festival begins with an exciting launch day on Saturday, 11 January, 2025 at Fed Square. Children will enjoy free entry to Cats & Dogs and take part in a range of pet-themed activities, including live dog shows hosted by Farmer Dave Graham on the Fed Square stage, crafting cat or dog ear headbands, and visiting a face-painting station. The festivities will conclude with an evening screening of the film Best in Show.
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
Throughout the week, the NGV Australia will host artist-led, drop-in pet portrait sessions where children can draw their pets and interact with local artists, including Deanne Gilson, Bushra Hasan, and Tab Sejoe. Families can also enjoy Dog and Cat Tales, a dedicated story time featuring picture books by Australian and First Nations authors, such as Yurri’s Manung by Sue Atkinson. Led by Koorie Heritage Trust educator and artist Tania Rossi, these sessions will bring storytelling to life for young audiences.
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NGV International
Families can stop by NGV International for the Lots of Dots activity, where children can design their own dotted pumpkins inspired by Yayoi Kusama’s Dancing Pumpkin on display in NGV’s Federation Court. Adding to the fun, the Mercedes-Benz “Design Your Own Car Wrap” activity invites kids to take part in a unique drawing workshop, creating car wrap designs. Each day of the Kids Summer Festival, one lucky participant will win a prize pack, thanks to Major Partner, Mercedes-Benz.
NGV Kids Summer Festival 2025
The Kids Summer Festival will also feature Relaxed Mornings on 14 and 16 January 2025, providing families with before-hours access to Yayoi Kusama’s The Obliteration Room, 2002. These sessions are designed with reduced sensory stimuli, creating a calmer environment in the Children’s Gallery for those who prefer a quieter experience.
Date: 11 – 17 January 2025
Time: 11 am – 4 pm
Location: The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Fed Square and NGV International, St Kilda Road
Price: FREE
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for NGV Kids Summer Festival 2025
1. What is the NGV Kids Summer Festival?
The NGV Kids Summer Festival is an annual event offering a week of free, family-friendly activities at the National Gallery of Victoria.
2. When and where will the festival take place?
The festival runs from 11 – 17 January 2025, with activities happening at both NGV International on St Kilda Road and NGV Australia at Fed Square.
3. Is the festival free?
Yes, all events and activities at the NGV Kids Summer Festival are free of charge. Some activities may require registration, so check the event schedule for details.
4. Do I need to book tickets?
Most activities are drop-in and do not require bookings. However, some sessions, like Relaxed Mornings require prior registration. Visit the NGV website for booking details.
5. What are Relaxed Mornings?
Relaxed Mornings provide a quieter environment with reduced sensory stimuli for families who benefit from a calmer experience. These sessions are held before regular opening hours and are ideal for children who prefer a less crowded setting.
6. What activities are available for kids during the festival?
Activities include:
- Pet portrait sessions with local artists.
- Crafting dotted pumpkin designs inspired by Yayoi Kusama.
- Storytime sessions featuring Australian and First Nations authors.
- Designing car wrap art with Mercedes-Benz.
- Interactive exhibitions like The Obliteration Room.
Check the full schedule on the NGV website for daily activities.
7. Are there activities for families outside of Melbourne?
Yes, the Kids on Tour program brings the festival to over 150 venues across Victoria, including regional galleries and community centers. It offers free art activities for young Victorians who cannot visit the NGV in person.
8. What age group is the festival suitable for?
The festival is designed for children of all ages, with activities catering to toddlers, school-aged kids, and even teenagers.
9. Can we bring food and drinks?
Yes, families are welcome to bring food from home to eat in the NGV Garden or in Fed Square.
10. Is the festival accessible?
The NGV is committed to accessibility. Facilities include wheelchair access, sensory-friendly sessions like Relaxed Mornings, and quiet spaces. If you have specific accessibility requirements, contact NGV in advance to discuss your needs.
11. How can I find out more about the festival schedule?
The full schedule and details of activities are available on the NGV website. You can also follow NGV on social media for updates and highlights.
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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.
