Families across North Sydney are invited to celebrate National Families Week (12–18 May 2025) with a vibrant line-up of free and low-cost events, from live music and markets to nature playgroups and a rugby league day with family activities. Recognising the vital role families play in building a strong, connected community, North Sydney Council is offering something for families of all ages and interests.
What’s on during Families Week:
- Sunset Series
Sunday 11 May (Mother’s Day), 1pm to 5pm
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a free outdoor concert in St Leonards Park featuring powerhouse vocalist Thando, plus kids’ activities, creative workshops, and a fun AFL activation with games and prizes. Bring a picnic rug and enjoy an afternoon of live music, community spirit, and family fun.
- Eco Playgroup
Monday 12 May, 10.30am to 11.30am
Nature play for little ones at the Coal Loader, encouraging hands-on, sustainable fun. Bookings essential.
- Free Parenting Webinar: The complexity of school refusal
Wednesday 14 May, 7pm to 8.30pm
A practical online session for parents, carers and educators tackling school attendance challenges.
- Writers @ Stanton Kid’s Edition
Thursday 15 May, 4pm to 5pm
Celebrate International Day of Families with author Melissa-Jane Fogarty in a storytelling and reading session for kids. Bookings essential.
- Rotary Crows Nest Markets
Saturday 17 May, 9am to 3pm
Browse fresh produce, crafts, and more at this family-friendly local market.
- North Sydney Bears vs Illawarra Dragons
Sunday 18 May, 11am to 5pm
Wrap up the week at North Sydney Oval with a day of rugby league and free family activities, including face painting, craft, bubbles and a visit from Barney the Bear. Children under 16 receive free entry.
North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker encouraged families to get involved:
“North Sydney is a diverse community and we know that families come in all shapes and sizes. National Families Week provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate those rich social connections that strengthen us. These events have been designed with families in mind, offering a range of activities to bring people together and create lasting memories.”
For more details about Council events during Families Week, visit www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/familiesweek
To learn more about National Families Week, visit www.nfw.org.au
ENDS
Contact details:
9936 8196
