Family Activities at ANFD: A Day Out for Everyone

If you’re searching for family activities at ANFD, you’ll be glad to know that the Australian National Field Days offers much more than a glimpse into agricultural innovation. Held annually in Borenore, just a short drive from Orange, NSW, ANFD 2025 is a jam-packed, multi-day celebration that doubles as an ideal family day out.

While the event is renowned as Australia’s oldest annual agricultural expo, it has evolved into a community-wide experience where families can explore, learn, and enjoy the rural lifestyle together. From interactive displays and hands-on learning to delicious local food and high-energy entertainment, ANFD has crafted an environment where children and adults can engage in memorable ways.

Whether you’re planning a school holiday escape or just a fun weekend activity, here’s why family activities at ANFD are the perfect fit for your next adventure. Spoiler alert, as you read on, there are bonus attractions for you to discover!

 

Interactive Kids Zone

For young families, the Interactive Kids Zone is where fun and education collide. This vibrant section of the event has been designed with curious minds and energetic little ones in mind. It’s the perfect place for children to explore rural life through games, tactile activities, and storytelling, all in a safe, stimulating environment. Parents can relax knowing their children are engaging in wholesome, age-appropriate fun while gaining exposure to agriculture in a meaningful way.

  • Animal Petting Zoo
    Children can get hands-on with lambs, goats, rabbits, and other friendly farm animals. This experience helps build comfort around animals while sparking curiosity about life on the land. 
  • Farm-Themed Obstacle Courses
    Designed to promote physical activity and teamwork, these courses immerse children in imaginative, agriculture-inspired challenges that encourage exploration and laughter. 
  • Educational AG Games and Crafts
    Kids can participate in hands-on craft sessions and simple science games that teach essential lessons about farming, weather patterns, and sustainability. 
  • Children’s Book Readings and Workshops
    Local authors and educators host interactive storytelling sessions and mini-workshops that foster creativity and literacy. 

These hands-on activities provide not only entertainment but also opportunities for experiential learning. The Kids Zone is a standout attraction at ANFD and a strong incentive for parents seeking educational enrichment outside the classroom.

 

Farm Machinery Displays for All Ages

Kids love things that go “vroom,” and at ANFD, they’ll get a close-up view of the biggest machines in agriculture. Whether it’s a shiny new harvester or a classic vintage tractor, the machinery display area is a magnet for families. This section goes beyond static displays by creating hands-on opportunities for learning and fun. It encourages children and adults to appreciate the mechanics, history, and evolution of farming equipment in Australia.

  • Climb aboard a tractor or harvester
    Little ones and big kids alike can experience the thrill of sitting in the driver’s seat of modern-day farming giants. 
  • See the equipment in motion
    Live demonstrations give attendees a chance to watch these powerful machines operate and understand their role in today’s farming practices. 
  • Family selfie spots with vintage machinery
    Families can capture fun and nostalgic moments beside beautifully preserved tractors and other antique gear. 
  • Guided talks on how machines work
    Expert presenters explain the mechanics and purpose of each machine in bite-sized, easy-to-follow sessions that kids can enjoy too. 

These demonstrations make technology come alive and bridge the gap between generations. For many children, it’s a rare chance to see the inner workings of machinery, which they usually only read about or see from afar. And for parents and grandparents, it’s an opportunity to share their knowledge and memories of farm life.

 

 

Live Entertainment & Demonstrations

The live entertainment at ANFD transforms the atmosphere from informative to electric. Spread across the venue and scheduled throughout each day, the event’s live shows cater to all age groups with a balance of culture, comedy, and community spirit. Families will enjoy moving from one arena to the next as music, demonstrations, and arena events keep the day dynamic and engaging. It’s the kind of vibrant, outdoor entertainment that helps children stay engaged and families stay active together.

  • Sheep shearing and dog trials
    A crowd favourite, these demonstrations showcase traditional skills and teach children about working farm animals. 
  • Local music performances
    Talented local artists perform live, offering an upbeat soundtrack as you explore the grounds and enjoy your lunch under the trees. 
  • Horse whispering and stock riding
    Learn about the bond between humans and animals through these awe-inspiring shows that mix entertainment with education.  
  • Scheduled arena events with commentary
    Timed performances with MCs guide you through everything happening in the arena, making it easy for families to follow along. 
  • Rooftop Express Show
    Don’t miss the main event! This iconic, crowd-pleasing show combines thrilling stunts, Aussie humour, and jaw-dropping horsemanship. We assure you, this is set to be a big one! 

These live shows not only add excitement to the day but also help children better understand the skills and culture of rural Australia. They are carefully crafted to be accessible to kids while still enjoyable for adults, making them a perfect shared experience.

 

Local Food & Produce Stalls

Every family outing needs great food, and ANFD delivers. A key part of the experience is tasting the best of the Central West’s local produce and culinary creativity. The food precincts are designed to offer delicious options that satisfy every taste, dietary need, and budget. It’s also a great chance to introduce children to new flavours and meet the people behind their food, from beekeepers to bakers.

  • Ice cream, BBQ, and picnic-friendly options
    From gourmet sausages to soft-serve cones, there’s something for everyone. Ample shaded seating makes it easy to pause and refuel. 
  • Free tasting tents and local farm produce
    Sample honey, cheese, olives, and baked goods directly from the producers. Children can discover where their food comes from in a delicious way. 
  • Gluten-free and allergy-aware zones
    Carefully curated menus ensure every family can enjoy a meal together without concern. 
  • Kids’ cooking demos and family meal ideas
    Short demonstrations introduce young audiences to simple, nutritious recipes using ingredients sourced directly from the region. 

These food experiences are not only tasty but also educational, giving children a better understanding of the farm-to-table journey. Parents will appreciate the variety and quality, and kids will love the interactive food fun.

 

Easy Access & Family Facilities

Logistics can make or break a family day out, and ANFD has thought of everything to make your visit smooth, safe, and enjoyable. From ticketing and parking to shaded zones and medical services, the event layout is planned with family convenience in mind. Whether you’re attending with a toddler in a pram or bringing the grandparents along, you’ll find it easy to navigate and settle in for a full day of fun.

  • Stroller-friendly paths and rest zones
    Wide, accessible walkways mean families with prams or young children can navigate comfortably and safely. 
  • Parents’ lounge and baby change facilities
    Quiet, well-equipped spaces provide a break from the excitement for feeding and changing in private. 
  • Family ticket bundles and on-site parking info
    Affordable ticket packages and detailed parking guidance help you plan your visit with ease and confidence. 
  • Medical tents, water stations, and shaded areas
    Essential services like first aid and hydration points are well signposted, giving parents peace of mind. 

These amenities help make the Australian National Field Days a stress-free outing, even with young children in tow. They allow families to focus on making memories without worrying about the little things.

 

Bonus Attractions: Learning with a Twist

In 2025, ANFD elevates the family-friendly experience with two exceptional educational programs that kids will be talking about long after the event. These special attractions are designed to both educate and entertain, offering fun that’s grounded in science, safety, and nature.

  • 3-Day Children’s Science Fair by Fizzics
    Live nitrogen shows and hands-on science stations will thrill young minds while teaching them about energy, gravity, and motion. 
  • 3-Day Reptile Event
    Encounter some of the world’s most fascinating (and sometimes scary!) reptiles in a live show pit. Children can safely learn about snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and more from knowledgeable handlers. 

These interactive exhibits turn complex ideas into exciting adventures. It’s not every day that a child can experiment with liquid nitrogen or get close to a crocodile, making this a one-of-a-kind educational outing.

 

Make Memories at ANFD 2025


The Australian National Field Days 2025 is not just an agricultural event, it’s a celebration of family, learning, and community. With a wide array of activities designed for children and adults alike, family activities at ANFD provide the perfect excuse to unplug, get outdoors, and connect with what really matters.

From the moment you step onto the grounds, you’ll feel the warmth of regional hospitality and the joy of shared experiences. Whether it’s your child’s first time seeing a real tractor, petting a baby goat, or laughing at a stockman’s show, every family will leave with lasting memories.

Don’t miss out, pre-book your tickets now at anfd.com.au to enjoy early access, priority entry, and the best that ANFD 2025 has to offer for families.

Discover how one day can deliver a lifetime of smiles!