Sydney kids set for a digital detox at The Big Adventure

Sydney Park will be transformed into an action-packed pop up adventure playground on Saturday 6 October, for the opening event of this year's Sydney Rides Festival.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said The Big Adventure would be a school holiday boredom buster and a screen-free day of activities for everyone.

"There are more than 10,000 children under ten years old living in the City of Sydney, with an increasing number growing up in inner city apartments," Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

"The latest Census data shows apartments make up 77 per cent of homes in the city, and the number of families with children grew by 24 per cent.

"It's why we invest in open spaces, parks and playgrounds, as well as school holiday activities for kids.

"Sydney Park is already a communal backyard for many families in our city. For one day only it will be Sydney's best backyard ever with The Big Adventure!

"The Big Adventure attracted record crowds last year and we're expecting an even bigger turnout this year -don't miss out on this opportunity to get outdoors and experience Sydney Park like never before."

Free activities at The Big Adventure include mountain boarding, rock climbing, parkour and yoga classes. Children can get hands on with kite flying workshops, seedling planting, marble runs and garden games. Sports clinics will encourage young Sydneysiders to try out soccer, AFL, tennis, cyclocross and even breakdancing.

BMX stunt shows, a bike ballet and roving entertainers will wow crowds while food trucks will serve up some of Sydney's tastiest food and drink. Families can bring a picnic rug or chill out on deck chairs dotted throughout the park.

The best way to get to The Big Adventure in Sydney Park is to walk, ride or use public transport. There is valet bike parking on site and St Peters train station is only a three-minute walk away.

The Big Adventure is free and runs from 9am to 4pm at Sydney Park in St Peters on Saturday 6 October.

The Sydney Rides Festival, now in its 8th year, will see 20,000 people experience the city by bike at more than 30 events across the month.

Visit sydneyridesfestival.net for more information.

A stunning free outdoor garden gallery with images of bike-based adventures and the most spectacular rides from across Sydney. Free - 8am-8pm daily, Paddington Reservoir Gardens, Oxford Street.

Sydney's biggest bike ride with options for beginners through to regular riders. Ride traffic-free across Sydney Harbour Bridge and through The Rocks before a family-friendly festival in Pirrama Park. Bookings essential. More information at springcycle.com.au

Dress to impress for a spooky night of family fun by Sydney Harbour. Bring your bike, hire one on the night or wander the course and enjoy illuminations, surprise performances, gourmet food trucks and entertainment. Don't forget your dancing shoes for the sunset silent disco and Halloween celebrations. Free entry. 6pm-11pm, Mrs Macquaries Road, the Domain. Bike hire available.

For more information, contact City of Sydney Media Officer Mark Ames, phone 02 9246 7395, mobile 0477 705 407 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Julia Lenton. Phone 0410 748 039 or email [email protected]