Extra: Penguin Day on 10 October
The African penguin is critically endangered, and today this special species takes centre stage. ARTIS is home to a colony of more than one hundred penguins. Between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, there are all kinds of activities for children. Make a penguin bracelet, craft a fish, take a look at the special egg cargo bike and ask the animal keepers all your questions. Along the way, you’ll discover why the African penguin is struggling and what is being done to protect the species.
📅 10 October, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
📍 ARTIS
Autumn art at ARTIS
From 11 to 18 October, ARTIS is all about nature and art. At the Gorilla House, children can help create one big autumn artwork between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. Paint a section or add leaves, twigs and moss, and watch the artwork grow throughout the day.
With a special activity map, you can also explore the park yourself. Draw a giraffe, look at trees through the eyes of an artist and discover just how much inspiration can be found in nature. And if you need a little break, head to the Planetarium for a journey through the universe.
Go on a Micro Mission at Micropia
How many microbes actually live on and inside your body? From 10 to 18 October, children can take part in Micro Mission: journey through your body at Micropia. During a treasure hunt through the museum, they’ll discover what microbes do on your skin, in your gut and even on your toothbrush – and why we need them.
Watch a real artist at work at the Groote Museum
From 9 October, the Groote Museum launches Studio ARTIS. Artist Anouk Griffioen will be working live on huge charcoal drawings inspired by nature. You can watch her artworks take shape and even talk to her about her work.
For children aged around 8 and over, there is also the interactive game 100% Connected. Through activities and by using your senses, you’ll discover how people, animals, plants and the rest of nature are all connected.
And even better: children aged 12 and under can visit Micropia and the Groote Museum for free.
📅 Holiday activities take place on various days between 9 and 18 October 2026.
📍 ARTIS, Micropia & Groote Museum