Festival of Democracy 2026

Australia’s oldest parliament is opening its doors for a fun-filled Festival of Democracy – a jam-packed day of discovery, learning, and hands-on activities for young citizens across the state. 

Celebrating its fourth year, this exciting open day is designed for children aged five to 12 years and their parents or carers, offering free, interactive and educational experiences that bring democracy to life.  

This one-day-only public event will be held on Friday 17 April, the first Tuesday of the NSW school holidays, running from 9:30am to 3pm. 

The activities on offer will both entertain and inspire children and adults:

• Step inside our Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council Chambers

• Get creative in arts and crafts workshops 

• Get involved with interactive storytelling

• Have your say in a mock committee role play

• Try voting with the NSW Electoral Commission

• Step back in time with Queen Eleanor, King John and the barons in an interactive reenactment of the signing of the Magna Carta, where the people’s voice changed history 

The Festival of Democracy is a free school holiday event that encourages an understanding of civics, citizenship, and the history and significance of the Parliament of NSW, Australia’s first and oldest legislature.