National Tree Day. Sunday 26 July.
Planet Ark’s National Tree Day started in 1996 and has grown into Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care event. It’s a call to action for all Australians to get their hands dirty and give back to the community. Find out more about volunteering in your local area:
- The Hills Shire Council event – find out more here.
- Bllacktown City Council – find out more here.
- Hornsby Shire Council – find out more here.
- Parramatta City Council – find out more here.
Visit a new playground
A couple of cracking ones have opened over the school holidays. Find out more:
- The Gables Lake Foreshore Playground, Box Hill – read more here.
- Kilpack Park Playground, Carlingford – read more here.
Teddy Bear’s Picnic. Sunday 26 July. 10am to 4pm. The Australiana Pioneer Village, Wilberforce
Bring your favourite teddy along to the Teddy Bear’s Picnic at The Australiana Pioneer Village in Wilberforce on Sunday 26 July from 10am–4pm. Families can enjoy teddy-themed activities, train and tractor rides, farm animals, pioneer demonstrations and explore the Village’s historic buildings. Pack a picnic or grab a bite to eat onsite for a fun and affordable day out. Check out their Facebook page for more details.
Lightfields at The Vineyard. Opening 1 June. From 4pm daily.
Lightfields is a walk-through lantern experience at The Vineyard, opening this winter in North-West Sydney. Wander past glowing sculptures, illuminated characters and larger-than-life installations after dark. From farmyard favourites to hidden surprises along the trail, there’s something to discover around every corner.
Open nightly from 1st June. Sessions from 4pm. Entry from $5 per person.
Buy tickets now, select the month you’d like to visit. Find out more here.
Pick your own fruit
Throwing all the kids in the car and heading off fruit picking is a great activity that the whole family can enjoy! It’s a great way to show kids where their fruit comes from while also being out in the sunshine and fresh air. We’re lucky here in the Hills to have fabulous farms right on our doorstep so the journey isn’t too far – as we all know, with young kids there’s no such thing as enjoying a long, leisurely drive!
Here are our tips for places to visit this Winter. Most places charge a price for for what you pick. Also, things change due to seasons and weather, so make sure you check the farm’s website or Facebook page for opening times before you set off. And don’t forget to take your own bags.
Other ideas
- Rouse Hill Estate open to the public. Every Sunday. 10am to 4pm.
- Powerhouse Castle Hill. Open every Saturday and Sunday. 10am – 4pm.
- Go for a bush walk. Here are our favourite kid friendly bush walks in the Hills.
- Go for a bike or scooter ride. Parks in the Hills with bike and scooter paths.
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