A Family's Guide to the Santos Tour Down Under
As the January summer school holidays roll in, there's no better way to kick off the year with the family than by getting amongst all the exciting and free events happening during the Santos Tour Down Under.
South Australia shines during January as the biggest names in global cycling visit our beautiful state. And it’s not just cycling fanatics who get involved – there’s no shortage of family-friendly events to keep everyone entertained.
In this guide we'll highlight some fantastic activities that will make January a memorable one for the whole family.
Australian Junior Track Series
Thursday 11 – Friday 12 January 2024
For budding cyclists in the family, AusCycling offers Junior Road Development sessions at the Victoria Park Criterium Track. Designed for ages 10-16, these sessions focus on skill development, building confidence and gaining experience in bunch riding. It's a great opportunity for young riders to enhance their cycling abilities in a supportive environment.
Campbelltown Gear Up 2024
Friday 12 January
Join the excitement at Foxfield Oval and cheer on the Ziptrak Women’s Stage 1 riders as they cross the finish line. While soaking in the thrill of the race, kids can enjoy free activities and entertainment. A family-friendly atmosphere promises a great time for all.
Glenelg Ice-cream Festival
Friday 12 January
Cool off at the Glenelg Ice-cream Festival on Jetty Road, Glenelg. This lively event will feature kid-friendly activities, food stalls, music, entertainment and an abundance of ice cream from South Australia's finest producers. It's a perfect opportunity for the whole family to indulge in delicious treats and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Family Day presented by Health Partners in the City of Adelaide Tour Village
Saturday 13 January
Our Health Partners Family Ride will kick off at 4pm. Kids 12 and under of all levels are welcome to ride the Down Under Classic Street circuit in a dedicated fast lane for the older kids and a leisurely lane for the little ones.
If all that isn't enough, there will be face painting, balloon artists, prize giveaways and a poster competition to keep the kids entertained all afternoon before you watch the professionals battle it out in the Down Under Classic.
Health Partners Family Ride
Saturday 13 January
Parents are welcome to ride or walk alongside their kids. All children aged seven and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
All tickets include unlimited laps of the Down Under Classic track, a goodie bag inclusive of refillable water bottle, Santos Tour Down Under cycling cap, official bike plate and a copy of Caroline Buchanan’s colouring book featuring specially designed TDU pages.
Picnic on the Green at Haselgrove Wines
Sunday 14 January
There’s ample lawn space for kids to play and you are welcome to bring the footy/cricket gear or lawn games, ensuring a fantastic outing for everyone.
Race from the Rooftop at Kimbolton Wines
Friday 19 January
Kimbolton Wines in the Fleurieu Peninsula will be the perfect spot for parents who are eager to see some cycling action while the kids are kept entertained. Their rooftop is the perfect vantage point to catch the Hahn Men's Stage 4 race sweep past the vineyards, all while enjoying local wine.
A food truck will be on-site offering burgers and other family friendly options from 11am – 3pm, with the cellar door open for drop-ins from 11am – 4pm. All are welcome to sit on the lawn area, back patio or tasting room and enjoy a glass of wine, wine tasting and burger.
Kids will be invited to bring their bike (and there will be a few spare ones) to decorate them onsite in race colours between 10am and 11.30am. Bikes will be placed in front of Kimbolton on Langhorne Creek Road with a prize – a family pass to Monarto Safari Park and a plush giraffe – for the best decorated.
Kimbolton is also adding a Kids Tasting Flight to its experiences, exclusively available throughout the duration of the Santos Tour Down Under. Little ones are invited to enjoy a regional tasting of cheese, Tommy Chocolate Turtle and a bike wheel (a pizza pin wheel), paired with a cordial flight, Santos Tour Down Under colouring sheet and a Kimbolton pencil tube.
