Easter 2026 in Australia promises a long weekend full of family-friendly events all over the country. From traditional egg hunts to unique outdoor adventures, there’s something for every family to enjoy. If you want city festivals, wildlife encounters, or just a picnic in a nice park, this guide points out the best spots and activities for Easter.
Key Dates for Easter 2026 in Australia
The Easter long weekend in 2026 runs from Friday, 3 April to Monday, 6 April. Good Friday falls on 3 April, Easter Saturday on 4 April, Easter Sunday on 5 April, and Easter Monday on 6 April. These four days provide a perfect stretch for families to plan getaways, attend events, or simply enjoy time together. Many schools will be on holidays around this period, so expect popular activities to fill up fast.
Booking tickets or accommodation early is smart, especially for popular events or busy holiday spots. Public transport usually runs more often on long weekends, but expect busy roads near big cities and tourist areas. Check local transport websites ahead of time for updated timetables and potential disruptions.
Remember, Easter Sunday on April 5 is when most Easter egg hunts and church services happen, and Good Friday plus Easter Monday are public holidays across Australia. Some shops and services might operate on reduced hours, so planning meals and outings ahead will help avoid last-minute hassles.
Best Family Events and Locations Across Australia
1. Sydney Royal Easter Show (Sydney, NSW)
The Sydney Royal Easter Show is one of the biggest and most iconic family events in Australia, running from Saturday, 28 March to Tuesday, 7 April 2026 at Sydney Olympic Park. It’s a massive celebration of Australian culture and rural life, attracting hundreds of thousands each year. Families can explore agricultural competitions, watch wood chopping and sheep shearing demonstrations, and meet farm animals up close.
There are thrilling carnival rides for all ages, from gentle carousels to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters. Food stalls offer everything from classic fairy floss and dagwood dogs to gourmet cheeses and local wines. Live entertainment spans from rodeo shows to circus acts and music performances on multiple stages.
Ticket prices start from $40 for adults and $25 for children aged 5 to 15, with kids under 4 entering free. Family passes and multi-day passes are also available, offering savings for those planning to visit more than once. Early online booking is recommended to secure entry and avoid long lines at the gates.
2. Melbourne Easter Egg Hunt (Melbourne, VIC)
Melbourne hosts several community Easter egg hunts throughout the weekend, with one of the biggest at the Royal Botanic Gardens on Easter Sunday, 5 April.
This event is free to attend but requires prior registration through the Parks Victoria website. It’s a great way to combine the excitement of an egg hunt with the chance to enjoy one of Melbourne’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.
The hunt is suitable for children up to 12 years old and is split into age groups to keep things fair. Alongside the egg hunt, there are face painting stations, craft workshops, and picnic areas so families can make a full day of it. The gardens themselves offer plenty of shaded spots and walking paths, perfect for strollers and little legs.
Public transport options to the gardens are plentiful, with trams and buses running frequently. Parking nearby can be limited, so catching public transit is strongly advised. Participants are encouraged to bring their own baskets or bags for collecting eggs.
3. Brisbane Easter Festival (Brisbane, QLD)
The Brisbane Easter Festival runs from Friday, 3 April to Monday, 6 April at South Bank Parklands, a vibrant riverside precinct right in the heart of the city. The festival is free to enter, making it an excellent choice for families looking for budget-friendly fun.
Highlights include puppet shows and live music performances throughout the weekend, with local artists and children’s entertainers taking to various stages. Easter egg decorating workshops are available, typically costing $10 per child, and must be booked in advance via the Brisbane City Council website.
One of the festival’s standout features is the giant Easter egg hunt, which sees hundreds of children searching for hidden eggs across the parklands. The event is well organised with designated zones for different age groups to keep things safe and fun. Food trucks and market stalls offer everything from fresh juices and coffee to gourmet treats, ensuring there’s plenty to keep everyone happy.
South Bank is easily accessible via public transport, with several bus and train options nearby. It’s also wheelchair and stroller friendly, making it suitable for families with young children and mobility needs.
4. Adelaide Zoo Easter Celebration (Adelaide, SA)
Adelaide Zoo hosts a special Easter-themed event on Saturday and Sunday, 4-5 April 2026. The zoo offers a unique blend of wildlife education and festive fun, perfect for animal-loving families.
Tickets are priced at $25 for adults and $15 for children aged 4 to 15, with kids under 4 free. The event features special animal encounters where keepers talk about how the zoo animals celebrate seasonal changes, plus Easter egg hunts scattered throughout the zoo grounds. Educational talks focus on native Australian species and conservation efforts, giving kids a chance to learn while they play.
Visitors can also enjoy themed craft activities and photo opportunities with Easter Bunny mascots. Picnic areas are available for families to enjoy packed lunches or snacks from the zoo’s cafés.
Adelaide Zoo recommends booking tickets online early as the event tends to sell out quickly during the long weekend.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Easter Weekend
Honestly, booking early is the most important step — from event tickets to accommodation and transport. Popular destinations fill up fast during Easter, especially family-favourite spots like Sydney Olympic Park and South Bank.
Check event websites regularly for updates on schedules, especially for workshops and interactive sessions that might require advance booking. Bring sun protection, water bottles, and comfortable shoes — April weather can be warm but also changeable in many parts of Australia.
If you’re travelling by car, plan your routes to avoid peak traffic times, usually Friday afternoon and Sunday evening. Public transport is often the easiest way to get around during busy events, with many cities increasing services for the holiday.
Look, for those with young kids, look out for designated quiet zones and family rooms at major venues. Many events provide stroller-friendly paths and shaded rest areas. Packing snacks and entertainment for waiting times can make the day more enjoyable.
Budget Planning for Easter 2026 Activities
Costs vary widely depending on the events you choose. Entry to major festivals like the Sydney Royal Easter Show starts at $40 for adults and $25 for kids, but multi-day passes can reduce daily costs if you want to return. Smaller community events like Melbourne’s Easter egg hunts and Brisbane’s festival are often free or low cost, with optional paid workshops around $10 per child.
Accommodation prices tend to rise during the Easter long weekend, especially in popular city centres and tourist regions. Booking early can secure better rates, with budget hotels and family-friendly Airbnb options available from around $100 per night depending on the location.
Food and drink expenses can add up at large events, so consider bringing picnic supplies if allowed. Many venues have strict rules on outside food, so check event guidelines beforehand.
Transport costs will depend on your mode of travel — public transport passes for the weekend can offer savings over individual tickets, and some cities provide discounted family fares during holiday periods.
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Easter 2026 in Australia is shaping up to be a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy time together with plenty of activities and events across the country. From big shows and festivals to local community hunts and zoo celebrations, there’s something to suit every interest and budget. Planning ahead with bookings and transport will help make the most of the long weekend.
This article was created with AI assistance.
