Little Day Out 2026
Families visiting Ipswich can enjoy a day of music, creativity and interactive experiences at Little Day Out 2026, a family-friendly festival celebrating arts, sustainability and play. Held at Ripley Town Centre as part of the SPARK Ipswich program, the event brings together live performances, creative activities, workshops and entertainment designed for young children and their families.
With a focus on imagination, connection and hands-on learning, Little Day Out provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy a relaxed festival atmosphere while exploring a range of activities that encourage children to create, discover and participate.
Event Overview
Little Day Out is part of the annual SPARK Ipswich Arts Festival program and is designed for children aged eight and under, along with their families. The event combines music, arts, sustainability activities and interactive experiences in a welcoming environment where children can take part in creative play throughout the day.
The 2026 event will be held at Ripley Town Centre, transforming the venue into a family-focused festival space featuring performances, workshops, activities and entertainment. From creative projects to sustainability-focused experiences, families can enjoy a variety of activities that encourage curiosity and participation.
Little Day Out is a great option for families planning a visit to Ipswich, offering an opportunity to combine a local event experience with other nearby attractions, dining options and family activities throughout the region.
Highlights & Schedule
Live music and performances: Families can enjoy live entertainment throughout the day, including a performance from Australian three-piece band The Gumboots. Their interactive style encourages children and adults to sing, move and participate in the festival atmosphere.
Creative workshops and activities: Children can explore their creativity through hands-on activities, including building a cardboard box village, contributing to the pledge wall, seedling planting, face painting, clay activities and other creative experiences.
Sustainability experiences: Sustainability is a key part of Little Day Out, with activities that encourage children to connect with nature and explore environmental ideas through engaging, practical experiences.
Jumbo Funk Disco: Families can join in the fun at the Jumbo Funk Disco, where children can dance, move and enjoy an interactive music experience as part of the festival program.
Food and refreshments: Visitors can enjoy food and beverage options available during the event, making it convenient for families to spend the day at the festival while taking breaks between activities and performances.
Family-friendly facilities: Little Day Out includes facilities designed to support families attending the event, including child feeding and change facilities, a sensory-friendly space, toddler assistance services, accessible facilities and an Auslan-interpreted main stage program.
Visitor Information
Date: Saturday 11 July 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Venue: Ripley Town Centre, 15/20 Main Street, Ripley QLD 4306
Families can select from scheduled entry sessions throughout the day, including 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM arrival times. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and secure their preferred session before attending.
For a more comfortable experience, families may wish to bring reusable water bottles, sun protection, comfortable clothing and bags for any children’s creations made during the activities.
Event organisers encourage sustainable practices, including using refill stations, reducing waste and considering environmentally friendly travel options where possible.
Parking information and arrival instructions should be checked before attending to ensure a smooth visit.
Make Central Motel Ipswich Your Event Base
For families travelling to Ipswich for Little Day Out 2026, Central Motel Ipswich offers a comfortable and convenient place to stay while exploring the region’s events and attractions.
The motel provides an ideal base for visitors attending local festivals, family activities and weekend events, with comfortable accommodation, easy parking and a relaxing environment to return to after a busy day of entertainment.
Whether you are visiting Ipswich specifically for Little Day Out or planning a longer stay to experience more of the area, Central Motel Ipswich provides a practical accommodation option for families and travellers wanting to enjoy everything the region has to offer.