October School Holidays at the Museum
28 September - 11 October 2026

WHEN: Monday 28 September – Sunday 11 October 2026

WHERE: South Australian Museum, North Tce

TIME: 10am to 5pm

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See nature in focus these October school holidays at the South Australian Museum. Here are four fun things to see and do with the whole family!

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Free experiences

Aussie Doco Discovery Trail

Go on an adventure through the South Australian Biodiversity Gallery and discover some fun facts about Australian wildlife with the Aussie Doco Discovery Trail!

Start your journey in the Learning Space on Level 2 to watch a short nature documentary by Australian Geographic and learn all about one of Australia's native animals, then head into the gallery to explore the displays and find the featured animal. Make sure to check in regularly as there are six Aussie animals to discover!

WHERE: Learning Space, Level 2

COST: FREE

 

Nature Origami

Take a moment to relax and get hands-on with nature as you learn how to fold origami animals inspired by our Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year exhibition. This free, drop-in activity will be available in the main foyer of the Museum with origami paper and folding instructions available to follow.

WHERE: Museum Foyer

COST: FREE

 

Meet the Residents of the Discovery Centre

Don’t miss your chance to hear more about some of the residents that call the South Australian Museum home. Our team will be giving a free 15-minute presentation on the animals and objects that live in the Discovery Centre.

WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 1pm - 1:15pm (excluding Labour Day)

WHERE: Discovery Centre, Level 1

COST: FREE

 

Ticketed experiences

2026 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year Exhibition

See nature up close through 100 stunning images by professional, emerging and junior photographers. This breathtaking exhibition allows us to witness the unique beauty of the flora, fauna and landscapes of our own backyard and the world around us. On display at the South Australian Museum until Sunday 14 February 2027.

COST: FREE for kids 12 years and under (with a ticketed adult)

>> LEARN MORE

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School holiday workshops

Create a Pin Hole Camera (various dates)

Discover the fascinating art and science of photography by building your own pinhole camera. This guided, hands-on activity transforms simple materials into a fully functional camera, allowing you to create unique, dreamy images without the need for lenses or expensive equipment.

WHEN:

  • Tuesday 29 September, 11:30am - 1pm
  • Friday 9 October, 1pm - 2:30pm
  • Saturday 10 October, 11am - 12:30pm

AGES: 5 to 12 years old

COST: $15 general admission | $10 Museum Junior members and Nature Photographer exhibition ticket holders

>> LEARN MORE

 

Paint and Plants (various dates)

Get hands-on and personalise your own plant pot these school holidays. Use pens, stickers and even googly eyes to decorate your enamel mug with nature-based designs where your imagination is the only limitation!

Guided by our friendly Museum team, you can then choose a native wildflower, Everlasting Daisy or bush tucker seed bomb as your floral foundation and to watch nature grow.

WHEN:

  • Thursday 1 October, 11am - 12:30pm
  • Saturday 3 October, 11am - 12:30pm
  • Thursday 8 October, 11am - 12:30pm

AGES: 5 to 12 years old

COST: $20 general admission | $15 Museum Junior members and Nature Photographer exhibition ticket holders

>> LEARN MORE

 

Kids Photography Workshop with Atkins Photography (Friday 2 October)

We’re teaming up with Atkins Lab to bring you a super cool, one-hour session on making the most out of your smartphone camera.

You'll be shown all the tricks of the trade, from finding the best lighting to framing your shots like a pro. Then, you’ll get to try out these tips yourself while snapping pics inside our Discovery Centre.

AGES: 6 to 13 years old

WHEN: Friday 2 October, 10am - 11am

COST: $20 general admission | $15 Museum Junior members and Nature Photographer exhibition ticket holders

>> LEARN MORE