Australian Open 2026, Things to do For Kids & Families
Heading to the Australian Open this year with the kids? There are so many things to do for families to keep you busy all day. From tiny tots to 10 year olds, there is plenty to do.
When is the Australian Open 2026?
- The Australian Open runs from 12 January – 1st February 2026.
- Opening week activities are from 12th-17th January.
- Kids go FREE day is 12th January
Family Activities at Australian Open
The Australian Open isn’t just about world class tennis, it’s become one of Australia’s biggest summer family events with activities designed to entertain kids of all ages alongside the on court action.
We usually head to The Australian Open during the first week and have done since they were young. We get a ground pass with the kids and sometimes book a game on one of the larger courts.
The ground pass gets you access to all of the outside courts and you can sometimes check John Cain Arena which offers some general seating, although there is usually a line to get in so it depends on the day.
We were lucky enough to see Naomi Osaka on the practice courts, and get into some of the outside courts to see some Aussies play.
Australian Open Ball Park
Your ticket also gets you access to the Australian Open Ballpark sponsored by Emirates which features plenty of activities for the kids. What they offer there generally changes each year, here are some photos for 2026, we visited the start of the first week.
What You’ll Find at AO Ballpark 2026:
- Water play and waterslides
- Mini tennis courts and Hot Shots Tennis activities for kids to try out the sport themselves.
- Character shows & meet-and-greets with kid favorites including Octonauts
- Live entertainment and performances daily including music and kids-focused shows.
- Racquet giveaways
Kids Tennis Day
Kids Tennis Day presented by Emirates is returning to the Australian Open this summer on 17th January which is when there are extra kids activities on.
Australian Open Holiday Programs
AO Holiday Programs presented by Weet-Bix takes the Australian Open to tennis clubs across Australia with themed giveaways, activity booklets, player cards and dedicated kids content The program sees tens of thousands of kids jump on court around the country.
Our kids absolutely loved the school holiday program in 2025, my son got to meet one of his favourite players, Alexei Popyrin and watch other stars like Alex Demeanor on the practice courts.
These programs are a great way for budding tennis players to get a real insight to what goes on at the Australian Open.
Tips for Attending the Australian Open with Kids
- Book your kids ground passes for just $10
- Take public transport if you can as parking is limited and it is usually super busy getting in and out.
- Bring a change of clothes for the kids, or bathers for the water activities.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen. (Although if you do, sponsors are usually handing it out)
- Make sure to check out the outside courts where big players can be found practicing before games.
Details
Where:
Melbourne Park Melbourne
When:
Opening week activities are from 12th – 17th January 2026
Official – Sunday 18th January – 1st February 2026
Website
Things to do in Melbourne with Kids
The Australian Open is a great day out with the kids during the school holidays. If you are looking for more ideas check out our SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES post.
Make sure to follow Mum’s Little Explorers on Facebook and Instagram for more family fun inspiration.
