The Ultimate Summer Holiday Guide for Thomastown Parents: Slime, Smiles, and School Holiday Fun
As the January heat settles over Melbourne’s northern suburbs, parents in Thomastown and the surrounding City of Whittlesea are all asking the same question: “How do I keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank or driving two hours away?”
The school holidays are a beautiful time for bonding, but let’s be honest—they can also be exhausting. Between managing screen time, planning meals, and hearing the dreaded “I’m bored” for the tenth time before noon, local parents need a win.
Thankfully, the solution is right in our backyard. Pipeworks Market is stepping up this January to transform from a weekend shopping hub into a premier family entertainment destination. From the messy, gooey joy of slime-making to the high-energy thrills of the Kids Zone, here is everything you need to know about making the most of the holidays in Thomastown.
The Main Event: Get Slimy and Creative!
Mark your calendars for January 18th. For two hours, the market will transform into a laboratory of tactile fun.
Why Kids (And Scientists) Love Slime
There is something universally fascinating about slime. It sits in that magical scientific middle ground between a liquid and a solid (a non-Newtonian fluid, for the little scholars in the room). But for kids, it’s not about physics—it’s about the squish.
The Slime Making Workshop at Pipeworks Market is designed to let kids unleash their inner scientist. In an age dominated by digital screens, tactile play is more important than ever. This workshop offers:
- Sensory Exploration: Feeling different textures and consistencies.
- Creative Expression: Choosing colors, glitters, and “add-ins” to make a creation that is uniquely theirs.
- Fine Motor Skills: Measuring, pouring, and kneading the slime to perfection.
Event Details at a Glance
- When: Saturday, January 18th
- Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
- Location: Pipeworks Market, 5 Dunstans Court, Thomastown
- The Vibe: Messy, creative, and loud with laughter!
Parent Pro-Tip: While we love a “hands-on” experience, slime can be a bit… clingy. We recommend dressing the kids in play clothes that you don’t mind getting a little messy. While the workshop is supervised, the “fun” sometimes has a way of jumping from the table to a sleeve!
More Than Just Slime: The Pipeworks Kids Zone
If you can’t make it on the 18th, or if your kids have more energy than a slime workshop can contain, don’t worry. The Kids Zone is open weekdays throughout the school holidays, making it the perfect mid-week escape for Thomastown families.
Pipeworks Market has curated a selection of attractions that cater to all ages, from toddlers to “tweens.”
1. The Jumping Castles
Is there any better way to tire out a child than a jumping castle? It’s the ultimate energy-burner. Our castles provide a safe, bouncy environment where kids can jump to their heart’s content while parents take a well-deserved breather nearby.
2. Go-Karts and Ride-On Rides
For the little speedsters, the Go-Karts are a massive hit. It gives them a sense of independence and “driving” in a controlled, safe environment. Whether they are racing their siblings or just cruising, it’s a highlight of the Kids Zone.
3. Mini Golf
Looking for something a bit more strategic? The Mini Golf course is a fantastic way to engage the whole family. It’s a great opportunity to teach patience and hand-eye coordination—and maybe ignite a little healthy family competition. Who gets the first hole-in-one?
4. Amusements for the Whole Family
The Kids Zone isn’t just a place to drop the kids; it’s a place to play with them. From classic amusements to modern ride-ons, the atmosphere is reminiscent of a permanent carnival right here in Thomastown.
Why Pipeworks Market is a Thomastown Icon
Located at 5 Dunstans Court, Pipeworks Market has long been a staple of the northern suburbs. For decades, it has been the place to find a bargain, a rare collectable, or a delicious snack. By hosting these school holiday events, the market continues its tradition of being a community-focused hub.
Shopping for the Parents
While the kids are busy in the Kids Zone or at the Slime Workshop, parents can take turns exploring the vast array of stalls.
- Fresh Produce: Grab your fruits and veggies for the week.
- Fashion and Accessories: Find unique pieces you won’t see in the big shopping malls.
- The Food Court: After a morning of slime and jumping, the whole family will be hungry. The market offers a variety of international cuisines and classic “market food” (yes, that includes hot jam donuts!).
Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know
To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time, there are a few “house rules” and logistical details to keep in mind.
The “Heads Up” on Safety and Liability
When you attend events at Pipeworks Market, your attendance constitutes an agreement to certain terms. It’s standard stuff, but important to know:
- Assumption of Risk: Parents are responsible for the safety and supervision of their children. You assume responsibility for any injury or damage to yourself or your property.
- Release of Liability: By participating, you release the organizers from claims arising from the event.
- Supervision: While the workshop and rides are monitored, they are not a childcare service. Parents should remain in the vicinity at all times.
Smile for the Camera!
The market loves to capture the joy of these events. By attending, you grant Pipeworks Market the right to use photographs or videos taken during the day for social media and website promotion. If you’re camera-shy, just keep an eye out for the photographers!
Health and COVID-19 Safety
The health of our Thomastown community is a priority. Please follow these simple guidelines:
- Stay Home if Unwell: If you or your little ones have a cough, fever, or are feeling under the weather, please stay home and rest. There will be plenty of other market days to enjoy!
- Mask Up if Needed: While mandates have eased, feel free to wear a mask if it makes you feel more comfortable in crowded indoor areas.
Making a Day of It: A Thomastown Itinerary
Want to maximize your trip to 5 Dunstans Court? Here is a sample “Perfect Saturday” itinerary for a Thomastown family:
- 10:00 am: Arrive at Pipeworks Market. Beat the midday heat and find a good parking spot.
- 10:30 am: A quick stroll through the stalls. Let the kids pick out a small treat or a new book.
- 11:15 am: Head over to the Slime Workshop area to get ready for the 11:30 start.
- 11:30 am – 1:30 pm: Slime Time! Let them mix and squish to their heart’s content.
- 1:30 pm: Lunch at the Food Court. Whether it’s a kebab, some noodles, or a classic pie, there’s something for even the pickiest eaters.
- 2:30 pm: A final energy burn at the Kids Zone. A round of Mini Golf or ten minutes on the Jumping Castle.
- 3:30 pm: Head home for a quiet afternoon (and hopefully a long nap for the kids!).
The Benefits of Local Community Events
In a world where we are increasingly connected online, physical community hubs like Pipeworks Market are vital. Supporting local events helps:
- Boost the Local Economy: Your spending supports local stallholders and small business owners in Thomastown.
- Build Friendships: These workshops are a great place for your kids to meet other local children and for parents to chat with neighbors.
- Create Memories: Years from now, your kids won’t remember the iPad game they played on a Tuesday in January. They will remember the day they made neon-green slime and jumped on a castle until they couldn’t breathe from laughing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there an entry fee for the Market? A: Standard market entry fees may apply. It is always best to check the Pipeworks Market Facebook page for the most up-to-date pricing on entry and specific Kids Zone attractions.
Q: Is the Slime Workshop suitable for all ages? A: While slime is fun for everyone, we recommend it for children aged 4 and up to ensure they can follow the instructions and don’t try to “taste” the creations!
Q: Where exactly is Pipeworks Market? A: You can find us at 5 Dunstans Court, Thomastown, VIC 3074. There is plenty of on-site parking available.
Q: What should I bring? A: We recommend bringing wet wipes (for quick clean-ups), a hat and sunscreen for outdoor areas, and plenty of enthusiasm!
Let’s Make This a Summer to Remember
Thomastown is a vibrant, diverse, and family-oriented community. We are lucky to have venues like Pipeworks Market that go the extra mile to provide wholesome, affordable entertainment for our kids.
The Slime Making Workshop on January 18th is more than just a messy activity—it’s an invitation to step away from the routine, embrace creativity, and enjoy the simple pleasure of play. And with the Kids Zone open all weekdays through the holidays, there’s no excuse for the “summer blues.”
So, grab the kids, tell your friends, and let’s get slimy! We’ll see you at the market.
