Get ready kids, because the school holidays are about to get AWESOME!
Perth’s favourite party for bright young things is back, and this year it’s bigger, bolder, and brighter than ever. From Tuesday, September 30 to Saturday, October 4, the Perth Cultural Centre will explode with colour, creativity, and a whole lot of fun for children aged 0 to 12 (and their lucky families who get to tag along).
For almost 30 years, the AWESOME International Arts Festival has turned the boring school break into the most magical week of the year. And 2025 is no different — with theatre, music, dance, storytelling, art, and hands-on workshops, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Want to see a circus? Done. Fancy ballet with a storybook twist? Easy. Keen to sing along, make art, or just get messy with creativity? You’ve come to the right place. Festival Director Jenny Simpson says the Festival is all about sparking curiosity and making sure every child feels included.
And guess what? Lots of the events are free! So, whether you’ve got a mountain of pocket money or just a few coins from the couch cushions, there’s something here for you.
One of the most exciting highlights this year is Barking Gecko’s brand-new show Reasons to Stay Inside. It’s a funny, heartfelt story about Pedro, who used to run, skateboard, and play soccer, but now refuses to leave his bedroom. Instead, he’s building an epic pillow fort (or “The Death Star,” if you ask him). His best friend Flora thinks it’s weird and kind or sad — because while Pedro has the “best” reasons to stay inside, Flora knows what he’s missing. Featuring best friends, a dancing pegacorn, and that strange, squirmy feeling called anxiety, this show is all about friendship, imagination, and the courage to step back into the world. It’s the kind of play that makes you laugh one minute and think deeply the next — and it’s perfect for kids who love pillow forts, pegacorns, or just a really good story.
Other highlights this year include main stage shows like Aliwah Bardinar!, Oddysea, and Drip Drop Play (expect lots of splashing and giggling). The Creative Hubs will keep you busy too — try out Skills & Thrills Circus Play, wander through the Teddy Bears’ Garden, or join the Storytime Adventure Ballet.
There’s also heaps of First Nations programming, including the Wanjoo Big Sing and Boodja Barna: Land Creatures, plus author events with some of Australia’s favourite children’s writers like Craig Silvey, James Foley, and Deb Fitzpatrick. if you’re in the mood to splurge, don’t miss the AWESOME Kids’s Markets!
Can’t make it to Perth? Don’t worry — the festival magic is hitting the road, with AWESOME popping up in Esperance, Beverley, and Hopetoun.
So grab your friends, drag your parents, and clear your calendars — AWESOME Festival 2025 is ready to light up your holidays. Trust us, you don’t want to miss the most colourful, creative, and completely AWESOME week of the year!