The Hunter Valley in NSW is a popular family holiday destination with scenic vineyards and many kid-friendly attractions. It follows the NSW school holiday calendar, so knowing the term break dates will help you plan the things to do in the Hunter Valley these school holidays with a bit of precision.
Most top destinations, including local wineries, warmly welcome children with thoughtful extras just for them. Think of outdoor adventures as tasty experiences so that families can find fun during every break.
When Are The School Holidays In NSW?
Here are the NSW school holiday periods in 2025-2026-2027 (for state schools) to help plan your trip:
Summer Holidays: Monday 22 December 2025 to Monday 26 January 2026 (Eastern Division) and Monday 22 December 2025 to Monday 2 February 2026 (Western Division)
Autumn Holidays: Tuesday 7 April 2026 to Friday 17 April 2026
Winter Holidays: Monday 6 July 2026 to Friday 17 July 2026
Spring Holidays: Monday 28 September 2026 to Friday 9 October 2026
- Summer 2026 – 27: Friday 18 December 2026 to Wednesday 27 January 2027
Source: https://education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/calendars/2026
What’s On At Hunter Valley School Holidays During The Summer (December 2025 – January/February 2026)
As the year draws to a close, the Hunter Valley comes alive with festive energy, outdoor entertainment and family-friendly experiences. From Christmas light displays and weekend markets to live music and New Year celebrations, summer is the perfect time for families to explore, relax and create holiday memories in the heart of wine country.
Christmas Lights Spectacular – Hunter Valley Gardens
- Location: Hunter Valley Gardens, 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW
- Dates: Early November to 26 January (closed on Christmas Day)
- Time: 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm (last entry around 9:30 pm)
Every summer holiday, Hunter Valley Gardens hosts Australia’s largest Christmas Lights display, and it’s nothing short of magical.
What You’ll Experience in Christmas Lights Spectacular 2025-2026
- Over 3 million sparkling lights across themed gardens
- Enchanted walking paths filled with glowing tunnels, giant baubles, fairy gardens and festive villages
- Special zones such as:
- Santaville
- Merry Meadow
- Shimmering Falls
- Italian Grotto Garden
- Christmas music playing throughout the gardens
- Roaming performers, mascots and entertainers
- Small carnival rides for kids (extra cost)
- Food stalls selling pizza, hot chips, fairy floss, gelato and drinks
Tip: Arrive around 5:30–6:00 pm and allow 2 – 3 hours to enjoy the full experience.
Read more: Hunter Valley Christmas Lights Festival 2025
Weekend Markets & Local Events
Markets are a huge part of Hunter Valley’s holiday charm – relaxed, friendly and perfect for slow summer mornings.
| Market / Event | When | Time | Location | What You’ll Find | Official Source |
| Pokolbin Market | Every Sunday | 8:00 am – 2:00 pm | 691 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin NSW | Handmade crafts, jewellery, art, fresh local produce, coffee, baked goods, live acoustic music, children’s activities and nearby wineries | |
| Handmade in the Hunter Markets | Every Saturday (some Sundays in peak season) | 9:00 am – 2:00 pm | Sobels Wines, 5 Halls Rd, Pokolbin NSW | Local artisan stalls selling jewellery, soaps, candles, art, gourmet food, gifts and souvenirs | |
| Hunter Wine Country Markets | Most Saturdays and selected Sundays | 9:00 am – 2:00 pm | De Bortoli Wines, Wine Country Dr, Pokolbin NSW | Boutique gifts, local produce, handmade homewares, food stalls, souvenirs | |
| Hunter Valley Gourmet Markets | Monthly (usually 3rd Saturday) | 9:00 am – 2:00 pm | Various Pokolbin winery venues | Premium artisan food, wine tastings, specialty gourmet products, live entertainment | |
| The Valley Markets (Singleton) | 2nd & 4th Sunday of each month | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm | Townhead Park, Singleton NSW | Jewellery, crafts, homewares, food stalls, kids items | |
| The Sunday Muster (Thornton) | 4th Sunday of each month | 9:00 am – 2:00 pm | Mortels Sheepskin Factory, Thornton NSW | Artisan products, handmade fashion, gifts, live music |
New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day in Hunter Valley (Dec 31, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026)
While Hunter Valley doesn’t have a single official NYE event for the whole region, several popular venues host their own celebrations, dinners, live music and fireworks.
1. Harrigan’s Hunter Valley – Midnight Masquerade NYE Party
- Where: Harrigan’s Hunter Valley, 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW
When: 31 December 2025 – from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am (Jan 1, 2026) - Overview: Harrigan’s hosts a large New Year’s Eve celebration with a “Midnight Masquerade” theme. Guests dress up in smart or black-tie attire and enjoy a festive party atmosphere.
- What’s included:
- Premium countdown canapés and finger-food from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Complimentary drink on arrival and three-hour drinks package (usually included in ticket)
- Live entertainment from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am featuring bands such as Kylie Jane Band
- Countdown and celebratory atmosphere heading into the new year
- Why go: Great for guests who want lively party vibes, music, drinks and a festive social setting right through into early morning.
- Official Info & Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/new-years-event-at-harrigan-s-hunter-valley
2. Bimbadgen Estate – New Year’s Eve at Woodfired Pizzeria & Fireworks
- Where: Bimbadgen Estate, 790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin NSW
- When: 31 December 2025 – from ~12:00 pm to late evening
- Overview: Bimbadgen’s NYE celebration is more relaxed and family-friendly, centred around good food, live music and a spectacular 9:00 pm fireworks display.
- What’s on:
- Live music all day:
• Matt McLaren from 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
• Karen O’Shea from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm - Food & drinks: Woodfired pizzas, local wines, cocktails and picnic-style offerings
- Kids and families welcome: Lawn games, blankets/chairs encouraged (bring your own)
- Fireworks at 9:00 pm — often coordinated with The Vintage area fireworks
- Cost: Free entry, with recommended booking for tables if you want seated dining.
- Live music all day:
- Official Event Info: https://www.bimbadgen.com.au/event/new-years-eve-at-bimbadgen-pizzeria/
Hunter Valley Wildlife Park
A trip to the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park (formerly Hunter Valley Zoo) is a hit with animal lovers. During school holidays, it’s open every day for an interactive zoo experience where kids can hand-feed kangaroos and camels and even pat a koala or wombat during daily talks.
The park is home to creatures from cuddly wombats to exotic lions. It is an educational and entertaining outing that brings your children up close with Australia’s wildlife in a hands-on way.
Wine Tastings with Family-Friendly Options
Wine country is not just for adults. In fact, many Hunter Valley wineries are family-friendly. Parents can enjoy a tasting while kids have fun.
For example, Tulloch Wines offers a popular Junior Tasting experience so children can sample four soft drinks with matching snacks. Teens aren’t left out, either. There is a kombucha-tasting option for the older kids. These creative twists ensure Hunter Valley wine tasting can be a family affair, letting you visit some of the best wineries in Hunter Valley without worrying about the little ones feeling bored.
Other wineries, like Briar Ridge Vineyard and Scarborough Wine Co., also offer fireside tastings and kids’ activities.
Horse Riding Adventures
Try a family horse riding adventure for a memorable way to explore the Hunter Valley’s countryside. Local operators (like Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures in Rothbury) offer trail rides suitable for beginners and children, plus pony rides for the little ones.
Experienced guides lead you through beautiful bushland and vineyards on horseback. Some tours even include farm visits-think tractor rides to feed farm animals and other fun add-ons. This is a fun way for kids to experience nature and make holiday memories, all while taking in those stunning valley views.
Markets and Local Events
The Valley Markets, held on Sundays in September, feature local crafts, fresh produce, and artisanal treats. It’s a relaxed, low-cost outing perfect for families to soak in the local community vibe. Just check the best time to visit Hunter Valley in spring calendars so you don’t miss out on fun.
What’s changed since winter?
Winter fun like Snow Time in the Gardens and the Hunter Valley Winery Run has finished, and now spring brings bright colours, sunshine, and lots of family adventures! The gardens are bursting with flowers, making the perfect playground for kids to explore. During the Spring School Holidays, little ones can step inside the magical Butterfly House, cuddle up close with baby lambs, or get creative with fun workshops like wood painting, lantern making, and daisy chain crafts.
Families can also join in garden talks, watch koi feeding, or enjoy special activities like the Spring Sailing Regatta. With face painting, henna tattoos, and tasty treats like fairy floss and chai tea, there’s something for every child (and grown-up!) to enjoy—making these holidays extra special.
Planning Your Hunter Valley School Holiday Trip
Planning ahead will help you get the most out of your Hunter Valley escape. First, book your travel and Hunter Valley holiday accommodation early. Hotels and family cabins can fill up fast for school holidays. (Look for places with kitchenettes or playgrounds if you have young kids.)
The best time to visit Hunter Valley with family often includes the spring months, which feature crisp mornings and warm sunny days ideal for outdoor play and quieter crowds than busy summer. A central location like Hermitage Lodge in Pokolbin is ideal, putting you close to major attractions and vineyards.
Pack layers of clothing for the kids, and plan activities to suit all ages, from animal encounters for the little ones to foodie or adventure experiences for teens. With so many things to do in Hunter Valley, you must balance active days with some downtime when you can relax and enjoy the beautiful spring scenery.
Book Hermitage Lodge for Hunter Valley School Holidays
For an unforgettable stay in the heart of Hunter Valley, consider Hermitage Lodge as your family base. Our home-style accommodation option, The Residence, is ideal for your next family getaway or group gathering. This is a private 5-bedroom house that accommodates up to 10 people, complete with a spacious living area, private pool and alfresco, and an entertaining area for you and the kids.
Located along McDonald’s Road right in Pokolbin, Hermitage Lodge puts you within a short walk or drive to wineries, gardens, and other attractions. After a day of exploring, you can relax by the fire in the guest lounge with a Hunter Valley wine while the kids unwind in their room.
Book today to stay at Hermitage Lodge and make your Hunter Valley school holiday truly special.
