School Holidays without the drive
With fuel prices where they are, the last thing anyone needs is long drives every day of the school holidays. The good news? There’s plenty happening right here in the hills that’s easy, local, and accessible.
The school holiday activities below are designed to be simple, affordable and nearby. No big trips or big spend, just a chance for kids to get out, try something new, and connect.
All of these activities are close to public transport so if driving is a challenge, there are public transport options:
Route 699 (US Bus Lines): Belgrave to Upwey for Burrinja and Tecoma.
Belgrave Train line: Tecoma activities
Route 688: From Upper Ferntree Gully Station or Croydon Station - routes stop in Sassafras, Olinda, and Sky High. There’s a short 10–15 minute walk to Olinda Community House.
Route 694: From Belgrave train station can also be taken to Sky High, Mt Dandenong
Great Shows at Burrinja
Burrinja has two fantastic shows coming up, The Farmy Farm by Circus Trick Tease (ages 3–12) and FLOP by Arthur Hull (ages 12+). Both are great live performances designed to inspire young audiences and offer a great opportunity for families to enjoy quality time together.
MOTHs have been provided with an exclusive discount for local families:
$10 off adult tickets
$2 off concession tickets
To redeem:
The Farmy Farm: use code DRAMA1 at checkout
FLOP: use code DRAMA2 at checkout
You can find more information and book tickets via the Burrinja website.
Activities at Olinda Community House
Looking for something simple and affordable?
School holiday programs at Olinda Community House include FREE and low-cost, local activities designed to be easy to drop into. No long days, and no big spend, just welcoming spaces for kids (and parents) to connect, create and get out of the house. MOTHs also loves seeing FemCee doing her thing in the community too.
For the Love Of Dance
One of our Business Directory listings, For the Love of Dance has some great school holiday activities in Tecoma…. so another good train ride activity. A great free option if the kids need to move:
FREE School Holiday Dance Classes
📅 13 April
📍 Tecoma Studio, 1553 Burwood Hwy
Preschool (2–5 yrs): 10:00–10:30am
Junior (5–12 yrs): 10:30–11:00am
Perfect for beginners or experienced dancers — fun, friendly, and a great way to try something new.
Spots are limited, so bookings are essential.
https://fortheloveofdance.com.au/class-type/school-holiday-programs/
Don’t Forget this event in Sassafras
Another little stop on the 688 bus route for this super fun event on Saturday, April 4th. Come along and enjoy the fun.
School Holiday Fun at Sky High - Mt Dandenong
Just up the road, SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is running weekday activities including:
Animal encounters
Treasure hunts
Pony rides
Live entertainment
Mini golf and maze adventures
An easy half-day (or full-day) option without leaving the Hills.
https://www.skyhighmtdandenong.com.au/whats-on/april-school-holdays/
The best school holiday moments don’t come from long drives or expensive days out. They come from local places, familiar faces, and giving kids the freedom to explore their own community.
This year, keep it close.