Published: 1 October 2026
The Lower Hutt Art Trail and a colourful line-up of school holiday activities are among the events bringing Lower Hutt to life this October.
From planting seeds and solving mysteries to exploring local art and enjoying live music, there is plenty to get people out and about.
Hutt City Council is encouraging whānau to make the most of the month, with activities happening across the city.
Lower Hutt Mayor Ken Laban says events play an important role in the city.
“Art and events bring colour and energy to Lower Hutt, but most importantly, they bring people together. They give us a chance to connect with our neighbours, support local talent and businesses and celebrate the creativity and community spirit that make our city such a special place.”
Art will take centre stage with the Lower Hutt Art Trail, which celebrates creativity across the city. October also brings plenty of opportunities to keep tamariki busy during the school holidays.
Highlights include:
- Lower Hutt Art Trail 2026 – Saturday 17 October, 1pm. Explore the city’s creative side with an event spanning art, heritage, environment, Pasifika, Te Ao Māori and more.
- FREE Kids’ Seed Planting Workshops – Thursday 1, Tuesday 6, Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 October, 10am. Tamariki can get their hands dirty at workshops in Maungaraki, Stokes Valley, Eastbourne and Wainuiomata.
- Detective School – Wednesday 7 October, 2pm–4pm. Put your detective skills to the test at War Memorial Library with stories, clues, a scavenger hunt and craft. No booking required.
- Wellington Folk Festival – Friday 23 October, 3pm. Kick off Labour Weekend with an afternoon celebrating folk music and the arts.
- Saints and Angels – Saturday 31 October, 5pm. A family-friendly Halloween alternative for preschool-aged tamariki, offering a fun way for young children and their whānau to celebrate together.
Whether you’re growing something green, hunting for clues, discovering local artists or enjoying music, October offers plenty of reasons to explore Lower Hutt.
Check out Council’s What’s On Calendar and start planning your next day out.
Photo caption: Eastbourne artist Niki Pennington is part of the Lower Hutt Art Trail 2026. This is her work titled Welcome Home (photo supplied).