Winter has hit us hard and if you are a parent like me you will be torn: do I stay home where it is dry, safe and warm, or find an alternative to screen time and venture out where it is dirty and slip hazards are a real threat? I am here to tell you — gumboot up and head on out as Culture Tracks has the answer. There is so much to see and do in the Yarra Valley.  Take it from a mother who has struggled and overcome.

Back when I wrote Winter I had no idea about the Culture Tracks program! What a help it would have been when I was struggling with a newborn and a boisterous 3-year-old. So, I have made it my mission these Winter Holidays to assist each and every one of you with a few planning tips to help you put together your itinerary this July.

Tip 1: Plan a parental mental health activity

With so much fun and games planned for the little ones, there will surely come a time when your stress levels will get the better of you. We don’t want to see any of you curled up in a ball trying to go to your happy place – that’s not helpful for anyone. Culture Tracks is kicking off the holidays by bringing the International Comedy Festival to town (28th-29th June). Book your tickets today and get ready to laugh.

Tip 2: Plan interactive activities

What better way to wear the kids out than get them involved in their surrounding? Whether their passion is dancing, acrobats or music, Culture Tracks has a show for them to become completely immersed in. With dance workshops and a circus festival to choose from, home is the last place you want to be.  

Tip 3: Introduce them to new experiences

I don’t know about you, but I can honestly say I am yet to experience the Opera. 30+ years old and I have never been to the ballet. It was only a couple of weeks ago that I witnessed the awe-inspiring work of an orchestra. And let me tell you, a passionate vlog was streamed to my Insta-story after that. My mind explodes when talent collides with perfection. The discipline and dedication of performers are inspirational; their display of excellence leaves me jumping up and down with excitement. I get even more excited when there are children in the audience. I‘m planning to see The Magic Flute and will try to attend The Whitehorse Orchestra performing the score to How to Train Your Dragon. I look forward to seeing my bubba’s face when the combination of sight and sound merges with his imagination.

There are two very popular children‘s books found in most Australian households and Culture Tracks is bringing both of them to life on stage in the Yarra Ranges these holidays.  Here is the perfect opportunity to ignite your children‘s imagination with Diary of a Wombat and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.  Make sure you book your tickets as these performances are sure to be sold out and missing out will be devastating!

I know that with Winter comes hibernation, but believe me when I say ‘you will not regret your decision to explore the Yarra Valley these holidays’.