Edinburgh has plenty of fun lined up this October half-term break.
Whether you fancy going to a kid friendly event at one of Edinburgh’s museums, embracing all things autumn, or getting involved in outdoor activities, all your family fun is covered.
Uncover Cultural Connections at the National Museum of Scotland
From music and dance to craft activities and storytelling, join National Museum of Scotland for a range of fun events connected to Africa and the Caribbean.
The majority of events are free attend and are available on a drop-in basis (spaces may be limited at busy times).
Cultural Connections runs from 16 to 21 October 2023.
Explore a Royal Yacht
The Royal Yacht Britannia was home to the Royal Family for over 40 years, sailing one million miles around the world. Now a five-star visitor attraction, visitors can explore five main decks and enjoy a fascinating audio guide that is available in both adult and children’s versions. Also available are BSL/ASL tablets and Braille scripts. Each deck is highly accessible for buggies and wheelchairs.
Can you spot the cuddly corgis hiding throughout the ship as part of the Cuddly Corgi Treasure Hunt?
Afterwards, don’t miss the chance to stop by the Royal Deck Tearoom to enjoy some delicious cakes, scones, soups, and sandwiches.
Online pre-booking tickets is recommended to guarantee admission.
Discover Our World from Space
This October, Dynamic Earth are inviting intrepid adventures to join them to explore Our World from Space.
Make your own satellite model, learn about satellites and spot Edinburgh landmarks from satellite imagery.
Events run daily from 10am to 4pm, 14 to 23 October 2023. Tickets to Dynamic Earth should be prebooked online.
Get busy with Half Term Bricks
Pay a visit to the National Museum of Flight and get creative with your own LEGO® creations.
Are you fast enough to take part in the speed build challenge?
Half Term Bricks takes place on selected dates from 14 to 22 October 2023 and is included with museum admission.
Learn more about the Palace of Holyroodhouse
This October half term, explore the history of the ruins of Holyrood Abbey at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Families visiting The King’s official residence in Scotland can explore the story of Holyrood Abbey, which stretches back almost 900 years. During All About the Abbey discover the origins of the Abbey and what life was like for the canons that lived and worked there, make a miniature abbey to take home and hear tales about this ancient building. Or take part in one of the Make a Mask activity sessions and create a scary paper mask – just in time for Halloween!
Events run on specific dates from 16 to 28 October 2023.
Hear some tall tales at the Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Bringing together Scottish and international storytellers and musicians, The Scottish International Storytelling Festival (SISF) features captivating performances and a lively programme of activities for all the family.
For the younger members of the audience, there are craft and storytelling sessions and story walks in the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
SISF takes place from 13 to 29 October. View the full programme on their website.
Get creative with the Big Draw at Lauriston Castle
Calling all budding artists! Head along to Lauriston Castle on 17 October 2023 for The Big Draw and get ready to unleash your inner artistic skills.
Collect a drawing board, paper and pencil from the Castle courtyard, then get busy capturing the sights of this glorious garden and wooded landscape.
Free with donations welcome.
Take part in some spooky Halloween events
Edinburgh’s once again got the best on offer this Halloween and as always, its more treat than trick!
From spooky craft sessions to ghost hunts, check out our top tips and choose the right haunt for you this Halloween.Explore Halloween events in Edinburgh.
Enjoy Stick Man at the Royal Lyceum Theatre
The beloved children’s tale of the Stick Man has been beautifully adapted as a live theatre show.
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s classic story of Stick Man’s journey to make it home in time for Christmas is packed with puppetry and lively songs.
Suitable for all ages, the show runs from 18 to 22 October 2023. A signed performance takes place on 19 October, relaxed performance on 20 October, and audio described, captioned and touch tour on 21 October.
All tickets should be prebooked online.
Family Fridays at The National
The new gallery spaces at National Galleries of Scotland: National should be on everyone’s must-visit list.
Taking place on 06, 13 and 27 October 2023, Family Fridays are the perfect place for young art-lovers. Morning sessions are dedicated to 0 to 3 years, with sensory lights, sounds and art-based fun, while the afternoons are geared towards older children, with trails and plenty of art activities.
Free to attend on a drop-in basis.
As you can see, there’s plenty to do in Edinburgh this October half-term.
Head to our Events page to discover even more things to do in the city.
