Gauteng families are preparing for the June winter school holidays, with public schools set to close on Friday, 26 June 2026, and reopen for Term 3 on Monday, 20 July 2026. The break gives parents, guardians and caregivers almost a full month to keep children occupied during one of the coldest periods of the year.
Across Johannesburg, Sandton, Roodepoort, Midrand, Rosebank and surrounding areas, malls, theatres, cinemas, animal parks and activity venues have lined up school holiday programmes for children of different ages. The options range from indoor obstacle courses and LEGO exhibitions to theatre shows, zoo programmes, safari experiences and creative workshops.
With winter weather limiting some outdoor plans, many families are expected to look for structured, safe and accessible activities close to home.
ALSO READ: Winter School Holidays 2026: Key Dates South African Parents Need to Know
When Do Gauteng Schools Close?
According to the 2026 school calendar, public schools will close for the mid-year winter break on Friday, 26 June 2026.
The school holiday period runs from:
- Start of holidays: Saturday, 27 June 2026
- End of holidays: Sunday, 19 July 2026
- Term 3 begins: Monday, 20 July 2026
Parents with children at private or independent schools are advised to check directly with their schools, as some institutions may follow different calendars.
The Gauntlet at Fourways Mall
One of the biggest indoor attractions this winter is The Gauntlet at Fourways Mall.
Running from 26 June to 9 July 2026, the attraction is described as South Africa’s largest indoor inflatable obstacle course, covering more than 1,000 square metres.
Children, teenagers and adults can take part in climbing, crawling, bouncing, sliding and racing activities inside the mall’s centre court.
The indoor setting makes it a practical option for families looking for a weather-proof activity during the cold school holidays.
LEGO Exhibition at Sandton City
Families looking for a free creative outing can visit the LEGO Exhibition at Sandton City on 27 and 28 June 2026.
The exhibition will showcase custom-built LEGO displays created by members of the LEGO User Group community.
Visitors can expect detailed cityscapes, vehicles, fantasy worlds, landmarks and original designs.
The event is suitable for children, collectors and families interested in creative design.
The Goal Zone at Mall of Africa
For football-loving children, The Goal Zone at Mall of Africa will run from 3 to 13 July 2026.
The indoor football experience gives children and families a chance to test their skills through challenges such as:
- Speed Kick
- Beat the Keeper
- Reflex Wall
- Footgolf
- Keepie Uppies
The event also comes during a period of heightened football interest, with the FIFA World Cup drawing strong attention across South Africa.
Joburg Zoo Holiday Programme
Johannesburg Zoo is offering a holiday programme from 29 June to 3 July 2026.
The programme runs from 09:00 to 13:00 and gives children an opportunity to learn more about animals, conservation and wildlife in a structured environment.
The zoo remains one of Johannesburg’s most popular family destinations and offers both education and outdoor recreation.
Peter Pan Jr. at The People’s Theatre
Families interested in theatre can visit The Peoples Theatre at Joburg Theatre for Peter Pan Jr.
The production runs until 26 July 2026, giving families several opportunities to watch the stage adaptation during the school break.
The show follows the classic story of Peter Pan, Wendy and the adventure to Neverland.
The Lion King Jr. at National Children’s Theatre
Another theatre option is The Lion King Jr. at the National Children’s Theatre in Parktown.
The production runs from 3 to 19 July 2026 and features young performers bringing the story of Simba to the stage.
The show is aimed at families and younger audiences, with performances suitable for school holiday outings.
Pop-Up Roller Rink at Greenstone Shopping Centre
Greenstone Shopping Centre will host a pop-up roller rink from 27 to 28 June 2026.
The event, hosted by Skate SA, offers a family-friendly skating experience with music, lights and skate marshals available to assist beginners.
The rink is expected to appeal to both children and parents looking for an active indoor activity.
Clearwater Mall Sports Zone
Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort will host a mini sports zone from 27 June to 11 July 2026.
The activity area includes family-friendly games such as:
- Mini ten-pin bowling
- Mini basketball hoops
- Giant noughts and crosses
- Board games
The programme is aimed at families looking for shorter, affordable activities inside a mall environment.
Bounce Inc Holiday Camp
Bounce Inc will host a Freestyle Academy Holiday Camp from 29 June to 2 July 2026.
The four-day programme includes coaching, practice sessions and freestyle time.
It is designed to help children stay active while developing movement and coordination skills.
Total Ninja Holiday Club
The Total Ninja Holiday Club will run from 29 June to 17 July 2026 at participating venues.
The programme is aimed at children aged four and older and includes structured obstacle-based activities, workshops and physical challenges.
It is designed as a screen-free activity option for children during the long break.
Lory Park Kid Zookeepers Programme
Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary is offering a Kid Zookeepers programme during the school holidays.
The programme runs from Tuesday to Friday and gives children a chance to take part in conservation-related activities.
Children may be involved in preparing food, learning about animals, attending conservation talks and taking part in supervised enrichment activities.
Lion & Safari Park Little Rangers Programme
The Lion & Safari Park continues to offer its Little Rangers Programme on Saturdays and Sundays.
The programme gives children a chance to learn about wildlife, conservation and nature through hands-on activities.
It is suitable for families looking for an outdoor educational experience outside the city.
Movies, Museums and Sightseeing Options
Families can also consider more flexible school holiday outings across Gauteng.
These include:
- Ster-Kinekor family movie releases
- Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Newtown
- City Sightseeing Red Bus tours from Rosebank or Johannesburg
- Acrobranch in Melrose or Huddle Park
- Irene Dairy Farm in Centurion
- Gold Reef City
- Constitution Hill
- Johannesburg Zoo
- Apartheid Museum
These attractions offer a mix of entertainment, education and family-friendly experiences.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
The winter school holidays place additional pressure on families to find safe, accessible and age-appropriate activities for children.
For Gauteng residents, the 2026 school holiday calendar offers a wide mix of indoor and outdoor options across major parts of the province.
Mall-based activities may be useful for families concerned about winter weather, while parks, zoos and safari programmes offer children opportunities to spend time outdoors.
The range of events also supports local tourism, entertainment venues, theatres, shopping centres and family-focused businesses during the mid-year break.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Gauteng public schools close for the June holidays?
Public schools close on Friday, 26 June 2026.
When does Term 3 begin?
Term 3 begins on Monday, 20 July 2026.
Are there free activities for children?
Yes. The LEGO Exhibition at Sandton City is listed as a free event.
What are good indoor activities for winter?
Indoor options include The Gauntlet at Fourways Mall, The Goal Zone at Mall of Africa, Bounce Inc, Total Ninja, cinema releases and mall-based holiday zones.
Are there educational activities available?
Yes. Families can visit Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, Johannesburg Zoo, Lory Park, Lion & Safari Park and museums such as Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum.
Planning Ahead
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to check dates, costs, booking requirements and age restrictions directly with venues before travelling.
Some school holiday programmes have limited space and may require advance booking.
With the winter school break running until 19 July, families across Gauteng have several weeks to plan activities that balance entertainment, learning, movement and rest before learners return to school for Term 3.
