Tour Down Under – a fun family event!
Australia’s greatest cycling is returning once again to South Australia from January 16 – 25 at the Santos Tour Down Under 2026.
This is one of our favourite South Oz events, and it can be loads of fun for kids too.
Cycling enthusiasts, locals and visitors alike will watch as elite cyclists travel through some of the state’s most scenic backdrops during the action-packed nine-day event. Kicking off on Friday 16 January with some of the biggest names in world cycling descending on 91¹û¶³´«Ã½, the stages are set and like always, this festival is going to be massive. Family Day is Tuesday 20 January and this is the perfect opportunity for kids to learn new skills, meet the Oppy the mascot, join in with some art and crafts and of course, go for a ride!
The City of 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ Tour Village is another reason why the Santos Tour Down Under is such a hit with families. Located in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga, it’s free to enter and packed with activities for kids of all ages. The Kids Zone is a highlight, featuring face painting, balloon twisting, giant games, and even a chance to write letters to their favourite riders at the Peloton Post. F
Parents will love the relaxed vibe, with shady spots, live music, and plenty of food and drink options. The Tour Village is a great place to hang out between stages, catch live race coverage on the big screen, or explore the latest in cycling gear at the Bike Expo. Whether you’re a cycling fan or just looking for a fun day out, this central hub has something for everyone.
FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS FOR 2026
Health Partners Family Day – Santos Tour Down Under – Tuesday, 20 January
Get the whole family rolling at the 2026 Health Partners Family Day! Kids of all ages can join the fun, from the Tiny Tour for little riders (5 and under) on trikes and balance bikes, to unlimited laps on the official Prologue track for older kids and parents.
Meet Oppy, the Santos Tour Down Under mascot, enjoy hands-on craft activities, and get creative with bike-themed DIYs and nature-inspired art. There’s also a Little Riders’ Play Zone, face painters, a bubble artist, giant wooden games, and plenty of food and drinks to keep everyone fuelled.
Try out Yamaha’s Blu Cru sessions, hop on our smoothie bikes, pick up Health Partners goodies, and stay sun-safe at the sunscreen station. It’s a day packed with cycling, creativity, and family-friendly fun!
Health Partners Family Ride – Head down to Victoria Park and join Olympian Jess Stenson and her family for a fun ride on a section of the Prologue circuit Tuesday, January 20, at 4pm. Kids and adults can enjoy unlimited laps together, with parents welcome to ride or walk alongside little ones. Each child aged seven and under must be accompanied by a guardian.
Tickets include a Health Partners goodie bag:
Additional Child: $5
Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Children): $30
Family Pass (1 Adult + 1 Child): $20
WHERE TO WATCH THE RACE
In 2026, the Santos Tour Down Under women’s peloton will race during the first weekend of the 10-day event. The world’s top female cyclists will take on Willunga Hill for the first time as they battle for the Ochre jersey across three exciting stages.
Friday 17 January
Ziptrak® Women’s Stage 1: Brighton to Aldinga
Start: 11:10am Jetty Road, Brighton
Finish: 2:08pm Esplanade, Snapper Point, Aldinga
18 January
Health Partners Women’s Stage 2: Unley to Willunga Hill
Start: 11:10am King William Road, Unley
Finish: 2:23pm Brookmen Road, Willunga Hill
19 January
Hyundai Women’s Stage 3: Stirling to Stirling
Start 11:10am Mount Barker Road, Stirling
Finish 2:07pm Mount Barker Road, Stirling
26 January
Schwalbe Women’s One Day Classic
Start 10:00am King William, 91¹û¶³´«Ã½
Finish 12:30pm King William, 91¹û¶³´«Ã½
The 2025 Santos Tour Down Under men’s race features a tough new climb, Knotts Hill, and a revamped Willunga Hill. With stages honoring the event’s history and new landscapes, it promises thrilling challenges as the world’s best compete.
18 January
Villawood Men’s Classic
Start: 7:00pm Rundle Road, 91¹û¶³´«Ã½
Finish: 8:30pm Rundle Road, 91¹û¶³´«Ã½
21 January
Ziptrack Mens Stage 1: Prospect to Gumeracha
Start: 11:10am – Prospect Road, Prospect
Finish 3:26pm – Albert Street, Gumeracha
20 January
Hahn Men’s Stage 3: Norwood to Campbelltown
Start: 11:30am The Parade, Norwood
Finish: 2:35pm Maryvale Road, Campbelltown
22 January
Health Partners Men’s Stage 2: Tanunda to Tanunda
Start: 11:10am Murray Street, Tanunda
Finish: 2:23pm Murray Street, Tanunda
23 January
EFEX Men’s Stage 3: Norwood to Uraidla
Start: 10:30am The Parade, Norwood
Finish: 3:00pm Greenhill Road, Uraidla
24 January
Hahn Men’s Stage 4: Glenelg to Victor Harbor
Start 11:10am Colley Terrace, Glenelg
Finish 3:21pm Esplanade, Victor Harbor
You can also watch all the action LIVE on Seven and 7Plus!
For a break down of all things family friendly at the Tour Down Under click here >
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