The best winter fun for kids during the July 2025 school holidays
Winter might be in full swing, but boredom doesn't stand a chance this school holiday. With the July break stretching across the country, malls, play zones and public spaces are transforming into adventure hubs filled with building blocks, glow paint, mini motor shows and even a magical Smurfs Village. Whether you're in Joburg, Cape Town, Durban or beyond, there's something near you to keep the kids busy and happy. Here's your curated guide to the top family-friendly events happening during the July 2025 school holidays.
Johannesburg
Sandton City – Lego F1: Build the Thrill
5 July to 6 August | Free
Shift into high gear with Sandton City's Lego F1 experience where kids can build their own race cars, compete in mini challenges and even win prizes. Interactive, colourful and completely free, it's fast-paced fun for every Lego lover.
Melrose Arch – Winter Playground
27 June to 20 July | R70/hour or R140 unlimited play (includes popcorn)
Melrose Arch becomes a winter wonderland for little ones aged one to 10. Expect obstacle courses, face painting, toddler zones and even Clamber Club entertainment. Plus, local restaurants are offering family deals to sweeten the day out.
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Supplied
Mall of Africa – Playtime at Le Petit Playhouse
9 to 21 July | R190 per child (includes show, DIY kit and dress-up)
Kids aged two to seven can dive into a world of imagination at this interactive playhouse filled with mini role-play zones, such as a vet clinic, café and fire station, complete with props, puppets and creative workshops.
Book: popup@lepetitplayhouse.co.za | 082 499 8834
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Supplied
Pretoria
The Grove Mall – Smurfs Village and Character Visit
20 June to 27 July | Free (train ride R30)
In celebration of the new Smurfs movie, The Grove Mall brings kids a magical Smurfs experience. From interactive water zones to a Smurf-themed train and a one-day-only character meet-up, it's a blue-hued adventure not to miss.
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Western Cape
Liberty Promenade Mall – Glow Studio (Mitchells Plain)
7 to 20 July | R20 per child
A glow-in-the-dark art studio? Yes please; kids can create neon masterpieces on back-lit walls, and every ticket helps support art-focused NPOs.
You can enter the photo competition to win a gift card.
Supplied
KwaZulu-Natal
Liberty Midlands Mall – ARTopia Public Art Exhibition (Pietermaritzburg)
1 to 14 July | Free
Over 300 artworks created by local schoolchildren will be on display, focusing on climate and conservation. Families can vote for their favourite and win shopping vouchers through the centre's till slip competition.
Cornubia Mall – Autostyle Motor Expo 2025 (Umhlanga)
19 and 20 July | R100 (Kids under 12 free)
Petrolheads, rev your engines, this high-octane event showcases SA's hottest custom rides, car culture, sound-offs and product launches, all in one family-friendly motor show.
Tickets: autostylemotorshow.co.za
Bluey's Big Play
Don't miss Bluey's Big Play in Johannesburg from Wednesday 9 to Sunday 20 July at Montecasino's Teatro. Fresh from its Cape Town debut, the hit stage show brings Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad to life with puppetry, music and fun. Families attending are encouraged to support Woodrock Animal Rescue by donating pet food, blankets, toys or second-hand books to help animals in need this winter. Collection bins will be available in the theatre foyer throughout the show's run. Tickets are available via showtime.co.za or ticketmaster.co.za, with special meet-and-greet and VIP ticket options available. This is a must-see winter treat.
Bluey Meet and Greets (August 2025)
While technically after the holidays, this one's worth saving in your calendar. Beloved pup Bluey will be visiting malls around SA in August for photo ops and fun.
Newcastle Mall (9 Aug), Bethlehem (16 Aug), Bloem (17 Aug), Design Quarter (23 Aug), Balfour Mall (24 Aug), Zevenwacht (30 Aug)
Free | Limited spaces
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