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The National Portrait Gallery acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders both past and present.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that this website contains images of deceased persons.

Playgroup programs

Childlren at a table with craft activities

Holiday Space: Self-guided

Free, 60 minutes, 9:00–10:00am and 4:00–5:00pm, 0 to 4 years

Holiday Space is a vibrant and welcoming place for groups wanting to connect, play and create together in a relaxed gallery environment. Bookings are available for parents and playgroups, with a minimum group size of 20 people (including adults and children). Available during the ACT school holidays.

Designed for babies and toddlers aged 0–4 and their carers, this space offers a gentle introduction to creative play. Children can explore sensory play, tummy time experiences and creative hands-on making activities at their own pace.

Sessions are self-directed, allowing groups flexibility to move and engage in ways that suit them. Gallery staff are present to support the space, however there is no formal facilitation.

The 9:00am session takes place before the galleries open to the public, providing a quieter, calmer environment that is ideal for groups with sensory needs.

Book here or email [email protected]

FAQ

Do we need to book in advance?
Yes. Sessions are designed for parents and playgroups and require advance booking. A minimum group size of 20 people (including children) applies.

What should we bring?
We recommend bringing anything your child may need, such as nappies, bottles and snacks. You’re welcome to enjoy food in the space. A parents’ room is available, and change tables can also be found in the accessible bathrooms.

What session time should we book?
Sessions are available at 9:00–10:00am and 4:00–5:00pm. The 9:00am session takes place before the galleries open to the public, making it an ideal option for groups seeking a quieter environment or those with sensory requirements.

How do I book?
Bookings can be made here or by emailing [email protected]

Is parking available?
Yes. Paid parking is available underneath the building, with direct access to the Gallery.

Do adults need to stay with their children?
Yes. Carers are responsible for supervising children at all times during the session.

Can older siblings attend?
Yes, older siblings are very welcome to join. While these sessions are offered for babies, toddlers and preschoolers (0–4 years), it can comfortably accommodate children up to 12 years. Activities are self-directed, allowing children of different ages to engage in ways that suit them.

© National Portrait Gallery 2026
King Edward Terrace, Parkes
Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia

Phone +61 2 6102 7000
ABN: 54 74 277 1196

The National Portrait Gallery acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present. We respectfully advise that this site includes works by, images of, names of, voices of and references to deceased people.

This website comprises and contains copyrighted materials and works. Copyright in all materials and/or works comprising or contained within this website remains with the National Portrait Gallery and other copyright owners as specified.

The National Portrait Gallery respects the artistic and intellectual property rights of others. The use of images of works of art reproduced on this website and all other content may be restricted under the Australian Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). Requests for a reproduction of a work of art or other content can be made through a Reproduction request. For further information please contact NPG Copyright.

The National Portrait Gallery is an Australian Government Agency