Spring in Mildura is when the region truly comes to life. The jackets start disappearing, the days stretch a little longer and every excuse to get outside becomes a good one. Whether your family loves wildlife, river adventures, outdoor play or discovering somewhere new, the spring school holidays are the perfect time to pack the car and head to Tropical North Victoria. From sand dunes and paddle steamers to blooming gardens and glowing nights, Mildura serves up family fun with plenty of sunshine on the side.
When are the Spring school holidays?
- Victoria: Saturday 18 September – Sunday 4 October 2026
- New South Wales: Saturday 26 September – Sunday 11 October 2026
- South Australia: Saturday 26 September – Sunday 11 October 2026
1. When the sun sets, the fun lights up
Just because the day ends doesn’t mean the adventure has to. As dusk settles over the Murray, the Trail of Lights transforms Lock Island into a glowing wonderland of colour, creativity and riverside discovery. Families can wander at their own pace through illuminated installations that spark imaginations and keep little legs moving. Then make the short trip to Wentworth for the Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO), where music, light and open skies combine to create a magical experience that’s guaranteed to be a holiday highlight.
2. Movie night made easy
Round up the family and start the school holidays a day early with a trip to Powerhouse Place on Thursday 17 September, when Early Man rolls onto the big screen as part of the Winter Movie Series. Follow an unlikely Stone Age hero as he takes on a mammoth challenge in a laugh-filled adventure that’s perfect for all ages. Add snacks, fresh air and good company, and you’ve got the perfect excuse to kick off the holidays before the school bell rings.
3. Make it to local market
There are few better ways to spend a spring morning than wandering through a country market with a coffee in hand and nowhere to be. Across the holidays, local markets are bursting with fresh produce, homemade treats, colourful crafts and unique finds from regional makers. Pop by the Sunraysia Farmers & Makers Market (Saturday 19 September & Saturday 3 October), Merbein Lions Club Market (Sunday 20 September) or Red Cliffs Country Market (Sunday 4 October). Kids can sample local goodies while parents browse handmade treasures, making it a relaxed and welcoming way to experience the region.
4. Big energy, we’ve got you covered
For families travelling with kids who prefer action over relaxation, Mildura delivers plenty of ways to burn some holiday energy. Future circus stars can swing, climb and tumble their way through the Listo Trapeze and Mildura Circus School holiday programs, while Benetook Farm offers room to run, explore and connect with the outdoors. Keen for something a little more adventurous? Grab a sandboard and tackle the giant dunes at Perry Sandhills, challenge the family to a round of Mini Golf at Putt Putt Mildura or climb aboard Mario’s famous tractor tour at Orange World for a true Sunraysia experience.
5. Nature’s biggest playground
Some of the region’s best attractions don’t come with an entry ticket. Mildura is surrounded by extraordinary national parks where adventure comes naturally. Explore the ancient landscapes of Mungo National Park, discover the peaceful lakes and wildlife of Hattah-Kulkyne National Park, or venture into the vast beauty of Murray-Sunset National Park. From spotting kangaroos and emus to climbing sand dunes and following walking trails, these natural playgrounds remind kids that the best adventures often happen outdoors.
6. River days are the best days
Life slows down in the best possible way on the Murray River. Climb aboard a historic paddle vessel with Mildura Paddle Steamers and watch the riverbanks drift by or settle in for a scenic cruise with Mildura Cruises and enjoy views that haven’t changed for generations. Prefer to captain your own adventure? Hire a pontoon boat or pedal-powered paddle swan from Dockside Boat Hire and Café and explore the river at your own pace. Keep an eye out for birdlife, wave to fellow boats and soak up the spring sunshine because sometimes the simplest holiday moments become the ones families remember most.
7. Stop and smell the roses
Spring is showtime at the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens and the colours are worth the visit alone. Thousands of roses burst into bloom, native wildflowers begin their seasonal display and the iconic Sturt’s Desert Pea starts turning heads with its brilliant crimson flowers. Add in shady walking paths, open lawns and a playground for the kids, and you’ve got a family outing that feels wonderfully relaxed. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it.
8. Your mission, should you choose to accept it
Forget the words “I’m bored” these holidays. With the free Agents of Discovery app, kids become secret agents on a mission to explore Mildura’s Riverfront and Trail of Lights. Guided by Agent Sunny, they’ll solve challenges, crack clues and uncover hidden discoveries along the way. It’s part treasure hunt, part outdoor adventure and part digital game, creating a clever way to keep curious minds engaged while encouraging the whole family to get out and explore.
9. Make it to an event
Spring also brings a packed calendar of events across the region. From the community spirit and creativity of the Mallee Root Festival (Saturday 19 September) to the iconic outback atmosphere of the Pooncarie Races (Saturday 19 September), there’s always something happening beyond the everyday. These events offer families the chance to experience the personalities, stories and characters that make our corner of Australia so unique. After all, the best holidays aren’t just about where you go, they’re about the memories you take home.
See you these school holidays
The best family holidays aren’t about ticking boxes, they’re about discovering new places, sharing a few laughs and making memories along the way. From river cruises and market mornings to sand dunes, spring blooms and starry nights, Mildura is packed with experiences that bring families together.
So wherever your holiday adventure takes you, make sure Mildura is on the itinerary. We’ll save a spot in the sunshine for you.
Take a break, make it to Mildura safety
Getting to our region safely starts with taking the time to pause along the way, and the TAC Pause Stop program is designed to help you do exactly that. As one of just 15 premium Pause Stop locations across Victoria, the Mildura Visitor Information Centre is a dedicated safe‑break zone where travellers are encouraged to pull over, reset and continue their journey refreshed.
With easy parking, clean facilities and a welcoming on‑site café, it’s the ideal place to stretch your legs before the final stretch north. And once you arrive in Mildura, you’ll find the same warm hospitality, helpful local advice and everything you need to make the most of your stay – safely and confidently.
