Free after-school drop-in at Manly Art Gallery & Museum for children aged 5+ accompanied by an adult, inspired by current exhibitions.
Friday 14 August 2026
3:00pm - 5:00pm
West Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095, Australia
Free
Gather at the Gallery: Kids offers a relaxed, creative after-school space at Manly Art Gallery & Museum where children can explore kids art and get hands-on with materials inspired by gallery exhibitions. This family-friendly program on the Northern Beaches invites curiosity, playful learning and gentle creative risk-taking — perfect for parents seeking meaningful activities for school-aged kids.
You’ll arrive to a bright, welcoming gallery space where facilitators set out approachable art activities that respond to the current exhibition. The emphasis is on exploration and fun, rather than producing a perfect piece, so children can experiment with a variety of media and techniques.
Families can expect a calm drop-in rhythm: staff welcome groups, share a brief introduction to the exhibition inspiration, then children choose stations to create, collage, draw or build. This is an inviting environment for kids to learn gallery etiquette while making art.
Activities are suitable for children aged 5 and up and are best enjoyed with an accompanying adult. Parents often appreciate the social time and the chance to see their child engage with art, culture and creative play in a local, trusted venue.
This is a free after-school drop-in program running for a two-hour window, where children can join anytime during the session. Activities directly respond to the gallery’s exhibition program, giving practical, hands-on learning about art and creative processes.
Typical stations include materials and prompts such as:
- Drawing and mark-making inspired by artworks
- Collage and mixed-media exploration
- Simple printmaking and sculpting activities
Each child can spend as much or as little time at each station as they like. Staff provide guidance and art materials; please bring an apron or wear clothes that can get messy. RSVP is encouraged to help organisers plan materials and space.
The event is held at Manly Art Gallery & Museum, 1a West Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095, located on the Northern Beaches promenade close to transport links and beachside amenities. It’s an easy drive from nearby suburbs and a short walk from Manly Wharf for those using the ferry.
The gallery is family-friendly and accessible; parents should check museum entry points for pram and wheelchair access on arrival. Limited on-street parking is available nearby and public transport (buses and ferries) is convenient for many families.
On arrival, head to the main gallery space where volunteers or staff will direct you to the kids activity zone. The gallery provides a safe, supervised setting for children to explore art with clear sightlines for parents.
This program is designed for children aged 5+ and requires an accompanying adult for supervision. Activities are drop-in style but places can fill quickly; RSVPs help secure a spot and ensure enough materials are available for all attendees.
Please notify staff of any allergies or specific needs on arrival. Children should wear clothes that can handle paint and glue; the gallery provides protective coverings but spills can happen in creative spaces.
While the program is free, respectful behaviour in the gallery is expected. The sessions encourage positive engagement with exhibited artworks and gentle learning about looking and making art in a public cultural space.
The session is free to attend and recommended for parents looking for after-school kids activities that combine creativity and gallery learning. RSVP is requested to assist with planning — this helps organisers estimate materials and manage capacity.
Bookings can usually be made via the Manly Art Gallery & Museum or Northern Beaches Council events page; if unsure, phone the gallery to confirm a spot. The council newsletter and events listings provide monthly updates on similar family-friendly art programs across the Northern Beaches.
If you need more information about the session, materials or accessibility, contact the gallery or Northern Beaches Council event staff ahead of your visit to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for your child and family.
