Running from 22 September until 4 October, the festival promises to keep boredom at bay with a line-up of workshops, performances and imaginative experiences designed to spark curiosity and inspire play.
This year’s theme is space, and HOTA has transformed its precinct into a galaxy of discovery. A major highlight is the Galactic Space Wall, a large-scale community art project featuring works from more than 1,000 students across 12 local primary schools. From bold paintings to intricate illustrations, the wall is the Gold Coast’s largest display of hand-drawn space-inspired art.
Children can step into the unknown inside Space within Space, an imaginary station filled with surprises for budding astronauts. Families can also enjoy the world premiere of Into Space by ARC Circus or take part in the Bin Chicken Universe adventure trail, collecting stamps and uncovering mysteries around the HOTA grounds.
Experience Gold Coast’s Director of Creative Programming, Felix Preval, described the event as an opportunity for young people to take the reins and shape their holiday adventures. “Kids Take Over is all about letting the young ones lead the way these school holidays, exploring new worlds, trying new things, and building memories. We’ve curated a festival full of creative experiences, from magical storytelling to free play zones, so everyone has the opportunity to join and explore the precinct on a cosmic quest.”
The programme also includes unique family-friendly activities such as Intergalactic Pizzeria, Explore the Night Sky and Mini Marketeers, which blend learning with fun. Workshops such as Draw Like an Artist, Write Like an Author, Improv Classes and The Artist Series with Amanda Gorman give children the chance to hone their creative skills.
With so much to see and do, Kids Take Over is set to be a galactic festival where the whole family can spend time together, learn, and have fun.
For details and bookings, visit: hota.com.au