School holiday program launches with soccer, lego club, GEEK Up for Darwin kids

Darwin kids will find no shortage of holiday fun in the Top End, with movie nights, lego club, and the beloved GEEK Up night set to round out the dry season holiday program.

Palmerston Youth Festival 2023 kicks off in the second week of school holidays with support from ex-Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva, Palmerston mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell and the Territory government. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Parents will have no shortage of entertainment for the kids these school holidays, with an action-packed program launched for the three-week break in Darwin.

Students across the Territory celebrated the last say of school on Friday, with many excited to ditch the homework and kick back with friends and family.

Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said the council had worked hard to come up with something for everyone.

City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said the school holiday program had something for everyone. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“From soccer in the park to movies, Lego club and the Amazing Drumming Monkeys, there is

plenty to entertain all school-aged children,” he said.

“For those looking for something more educational we’re also running first aid courses, a café

skills course and the very popular GEEK Up is back.

“There’s no need to travel interstate these school holidays, it’s the best time of the year right

here, enjoy our glorious dry season and everything Darwin has to offer.”

The school holidays are the perfect chance to get creative and write an award-winning story.

Entries for the Young Territory Author Awards are also open until August 27, making the school holidays the perfect time to get creative.

“We want to celebrate the creativity and talent of as many young Territorians as possible and read their stories, so please get writing,” Mr Vatskalis said.

Aspiring authors under 18 can enter their story so long as it is presented as a book with a front and back cover, title page, and clearly numbered pages.

Book vouchers for $50 are up for grabs for age category winners and the overall winner will take home a huge cash prize of $500.

Packed school holidays program in Palmo

An entire week of free events is in store for kids in the Top End, with everything from basketball to music sets, laser tag and gaming.

The Palmerston Youth Festival kicks off on July 8, the last week of the school holidays, with the annual GeekFest among program highlights.

Returning for its sixth year, the event welcomes both young and grown-up geeks for an evening of K-pop performances, e-sports, escape rooms and more.

Kids who are more drawn to the kitchen also have an opportunity to cook alongside Darwin’s former Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva as part of Rookie Cooks on July 12.

“I am super excited to be a part of the Palmerston Youth Festival this year … to showcase some young up-and-coming local chefs,” Ms De Silva said.

Rookie Cooks with Minoli De Silva is open to 15 to 25-year-olds, with prizes up for grabs. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“Don’t forget to grab a friend and team up to test your culinary skills.

“The day will be full of fun and you will learn new skills – you’ll also get to taste some yummy dishes.”

Bringing the festival to a close is Suburban Sounds, showcasing performances by DJ Havana Brown, Becca Hatch, Kian and local talent Juran.

A range of competitions also offers up the chance to share in more than $20,000 worth of prizes.

Palmerston mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell said the festival celebrates the diversity and creativity of the Top End’s young people.

“We are thrilled to bring this event back and provide a platform for youth to express themselves, showcase their talents and connect with others who share their passions,” she said.

“It’s an incredible experience that fosters creativity, growth, and camaraderie.”

Youth Minister Lauren Moss said everyone was welcome to join the exciting activities in store.

“This event showcases the immense talent and potential of our young Territorians and contributes to the cultural landscape of Palmerston,” she said.

The full festival program can be found at palmerstonyouthfestival.com.au