Next up: the summer school holidays, Sat 12 December to Tue 26 January. Starts in 33 days. Queensland government school dates; Catholic and independent schools can differ.
The summer break is the long one, and a Mackay summer means heat, humidity and the odd storm. Water play and shade in the morning, somewhere indoors and air conditioned by early afternoon, and a plan B for the wet days.
Holiday programs and events
Dated events running during the break. Always confirm with the organiser before you drive over.
Air conditioning and somewhere to burn energy. Play centres are spread across the suburbs, and the free museums and libraries are the cheapest cool room in town.
The summer school holidays run Sat 12 December to Tue 26 January 2027. The autumn school holidays run Fri 26 March to Sun 11 April 2027. The winter school holidays run Sat 26 June to Sun 11 July 2027. The spring school holidays run Sat 18 September to Mon 4 October 2027. These are Queensland government school dates. Catholic and independent schools set their own, and government schools add their own pupil free days, so check with your school.
What is there to do in the Mackay school holidays that is free?
A great deal. Every council playground is free, as are the water play areas, the library holiday programs and most of the community events on the what's on page.
What can you do with kids in Mackay when it is raining?
Indoor play centres, the free museums and galleries, the library, and the indoor pools. On a warm wet day a splash pad still works: they are already wet.
