Got little ones to entertain? We've got you. From a spectacular series of Christmas-themed events to an epic dinosaur adventure, a huge street fair and a very merry carol sing-a-long, there's a whole lot of kid-approved things to get amongst this month.
Here are the best things to do with kids in Wellington this month and this year.
Christmas In The Quarters
Thorndon Fair
1 December | Thorndon
The annual Thorndon Fair has been drawing crowds for almost 50 years, and is once again bringing its mix of family-friendly market stalls, activities and more to historic Thorndon on the first day of December. Get your Christmas shopping sussed, with more than 250 stallholders selling all kinds of goodies, from garden art to gourmet food, and crochet creations to kids clothes. There'll also be plenty of tasty food on sale, to keep you and the littlies fuelled.
The Amazing Dinosaur Discovery
1 - 8 December | Takapuwahia Park, Titahi Bay
Image credit: The Amazing Dinosaur Discovery | website
If the silly season is driving you a little, well, silly, escape the madness and go on a dino adventure instead. Get up close and personal with more than 30 life-like dinosaurs at The Amazing Dinosaur Discovery. Journey back to the prehistoric age and see all your fave dinos come to life, from the terrifying T Rex to the impressively tall Brachiosaurus. Budding palaeontologists will enjoy all the activities on offer, including fossil digging, dino crafts, face painting and a dino-themed playground. Roar-some.
Gingerbread - A Kid Friendly Christmas Drag Show
6 December | Fringe Bar
If you find all the usual Christmas events a bit ho-ho-ho-hum, then Gingerbread -a Kid Friendly Christmas Drag Show might just tickle your festive fancy. Featuring a sleighful of naughty and nice performers from across the snowglobe, this drag spectacular will be a jolly good time for the whole family. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for under 14s.
Fairytale Adventures
7 December | Nōku te Ao Capital E
Buckle up for all your favourite fairytales with a delightful twist. In this interactive performance, entertaining troupe, Fairy Cat and Friends, will bring classic fairytales to life, with a little help from your tamariki and their imaginations. Will Cinderella leave the ball before midnight? Will Rapunzel get a haircut? Your kids can decide! This whimsical event is suitable for 3+ year old's. No bookings required, and donations are appreciated.
'til 14 December | Various venues
Image credit: Christmas In The Quarters | Wellington City Council
Wellington is about to get festive AF with a series of Christmas whānau-friendly events in four different parts of the city. Take the kids along to Midland Park for Christmas crafts on 23 November, belt out some banging Christmas tunes in Glover Park on 30 November, and enjoy circus acts under the sails at Queens Wharf on Saturday 7 December. Don’t miss the grand finale on 14 December, when the Big Man in Red (aka Santa) arrives at Waitangi Park, and join in the festive fun including ice skating, a snowball globe, foam pit, face painting and live music.
Carols In The Park
14 December | Waitangi Park
Even if you’re a bit of a grinch, there’s no denying that Christmas carols can warm a frosty heart. So if you’re struggling to get into the spirit, a good ole sing-a-long could be just what Santa ordered. Presented by Nick Tansley and Friends, Carols In The Park promises to deliver a big helping of Christmas cheer to all. Pack a picnic blanket and snacks, or grab some food truck fare, and settle in with the fam at Waitangi Park for an evening of yuletide tunes and merriment.
North Pole Express Kapiti
14 & 15 December - Parapararumu
If you have a train-mad littlie who also loves Christmas, then they’re going to go loco(motive) on the North Pole Express. This magical train ride will be overflowing with festive delights that are sure to get you and the family in the Christmas mood. Cosy up for the two hour trip in one of the beautifully decorated carriages, and be treated to carols, cocoa and cookies, as well as a special visit from Santa and a sprinkling of other surprises along the way. These train rides are super popular, so get in quick to book your seats.
Main image credit: Christmas In The Quarters | Wellington City Council.