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State Library Victoria's Summer Festival (Free)


  • State Library of Victoria (map)

State Library Victoria is THE place for families these summer school holidays.  

Throughout January, the Library’s forecourt will transform into an imagination playground for our youngest literary explorers.  

Settle in for Storytime (favourite teddies also invited), collect a craft showbag or jump into parachute play. Supersize the fun with a collection of jumbo puzzles and a giant bubble dance party.

Looking to get a break from the summer heat? Head inside the Library to explore our iconic reading rooms and spaces whilst on a family scavenger hunt. 

Library on the Lawn: Kids Festival is collaborating with Public Libraries Victoria for their BIG Summer Read program, encouraging kids to read books over the summer break. With more than 4,000 books on offer for kids aged up to 12, there is no better place to share a story than at State Library Victoria. 

With its purpose-built Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter, the Library offers a central spot to stay cool and enjoy an array of family friendly activities that are free or low-cost and guaranteed to enchant. 

Program highlights:

  • 10.15am and 12pm Bubble Dance Party 

  • 10.30am and 11.30am Storytime 

  • 11am Parachute Play 

  • 12.15pm Newspaper Catwalk creation time 

  • 12.30pm Newspaper Catwalk 

Presented by BIG Summer Read and State Library Victoria. 

Event Details:

  • Dates:
    06 January 2026, 10:00am–08 January 2026, 1:00pm

    13 January 2026, 10:00am–15 January 2026, 1:00pm

  • Times: Drop in anytime from 10am to 1pm on 6–8 and 13–15 January 2026

  • Age recommendation: Up to 12 years

  • Location: Library forecourt, 328 Swanston Street - State Library of Victoria

  • Notes: FREE - No bookings required

More info here.