Things to Do in the February & March School holidays 2026
School holidays in the Pyrénées-Orientales don’t have to mean expensive theme parks or military-level planning. Often, all it takes is a change of scene, a breath of fresh air, and one small adventure to reset everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a week or simply trying to keep holiday boredom at bay, Dept. 66 delivers effortlessly — mountains, sea air, colourful festivals and hidden villages all within easy reach.
Rosaleen and her three Junior Journalists have compiled a thoughtfully curated guide packed with energy-burning outings, rainy-day rescues, local traditions and memorable experiences your children will still be talking about months from now.
🏃♀️ Fresh Air Adventures
1. Snow Day – Font-Romeu / Pyrénées 2000 / Les Angles
You don’t need skis to enjoy the mountains. Head uphill for sledging, snow play zones and the simple magic of hot chocolate after cold fingers. Parking is paid in most resort areas, sledges typically hire for €10–€15, and pedestrian access to snow areas is often free. Arrive early during school holidays and dress properly — waterproof gloves are worth their weight in gold.
2. Zoo Day – Casteil Animal Park
A small, family-friendly mountain zoo near Vernet-les-Bains, home to wolves, marmots, monkeys and birds of prey. Expect uneven paths (pushchairs can be tricky), but the views are beautiful. Entry is typically around €15 for adults and €10–€12 for children. Allow 2–3 hours and pack snacks.
3. Beach Day (Winter Style) – Argelès / Canet / Collioure
Even in February, a bright coastal day works surprisingly well. Bring scooters, a football or a flask and treat it like a windswept adventure. Parking is usually free or inexpensive out of season. Most cafés remain open in town centres, even if the seafront feels quiet.
4. Thermal Baths – Bains de Saint-Thomas
Outdoor hot pools in the mountains, open year-round. It feels magical soaking in warm mineral water while the air is cold. Entry is usually around €9 for the exterior baths and more for the indoor facilities. However, this area is adults only. There are reduced rates for children. Bring flip-flops and towels; lockers are available.
5. Visit One of the “Plus Beaux Villages”
Eus, Castelnou or Villefranche-de-Conflent make easy half-day outings. Cobblestone streets, castle views and artisan shops create a simple but memorable wander. Access to villages is free; castle entry fees vary (often €4–€8). Wear comfortable shoes and note some of these streets are not buggy-friendly. The castle at Castelnou has a nice games booklet for children
🌧 Rainy Days & Indoors
6. Jump Story (Perpignan)
An indoor trampoline park that genuinely burns energy. Sessions are usually sold by the hour (around €10–€15 per child). Booking ahead during holidays is recommended. Socks are required.
7. Water Museum – Maison de l’Eau, Le Boulou
An educational, interactive museum exploring water systems and local ecology. Entry is modest (often under €6 per person). It’s manageable in 1–2 hours and works well for primary-aged children.
8. Jammy Day with the P-O Colouring Book
A slower day at home can be just as restorative. Pick up a P-O colouring book with lots of local scenes to bring to life. Bake something simple and turn it into a creative reset day. Just paper, pencils and snacks required.
9. Cinema Morning
Holiday mornings often feature family screenings at reduced prices (around €5–€8 per ticket). Check listings in advance as English-language options are limited. We love the Lido in Prades, but of course there are cinemas in most towns
10. Dinopedia Experience
A dinosaur-themed interactive in Villefranche de Conflent. experience (seasonal pop-ups or touring exhibitions). Tickets usually range from €8–€15. Expect animatronic dinosaurs, photo zones and short immersive trails.
🎭 Festivals & Seasonal Events
11. Bear Festival (Les Fêtes de l’Ours)
Held in villages such as Prats-de-Mollo (22nd February), Arles-sur-Tech and Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans (1st March). A traditional Catalan festival involving costumes, music and theatrical street performances. Free to attend. It can be noisy and crowded — better suited to school-aged children.
12. Calçotadas (Calçot Season Feasts)
Late winter is calçot season. Villages and associations organise open-fire meals celebrating grilled spring onions dipped in romesco sauce. Prices vary but typically €15–€30 per adult for organised meals and children’s portions are sometimes cheaper. Expect long communal tables and a relaxed atmosphere. Booking is required so try Prades 21st February and 1st March Vernet Les Bains. (Contact the local tourist office for details)
13. Carnivals (Mardi Gras Week)
Perpignan, Argelès, Elne and Saint-Cyprien typically host parades with costumes and confetti. Free to attend. Arrive early for parking and bring small bags for children who collect sweets thrown from floats. There may well be confetti thrown in abundance so wear suitable clothing and tie up your hair ! (Contact the local tourist office for details)
14. Spring Funfair (Perpignan Area)
Travelling fairground rides set up late February or early March. Entry is free; rides usually cost €3–€5 each. Best visited early evening before it gets too busy.
15. Winter Family Week (Font-Romeu)
A holiday programme featuring kids’ discos, treasure hunts and torchlit descents. Many activities are free; some require registration. Check the tourist office schedule on their website in advance.
🎟 Experiences They’ll Remember
16. Le Train Jaune (Yellow Train)
The train connects Villefranche-de-Conflent (427 metres altitude) to Latour-de-Carol (1232 metres) over a distance of 63 km, climbing 1200 vertical metres to Bolquère, the highest ski station in France at 1593 meters. The full journey takes three hours. Book in advance during holidays and wrap up warmly as you will be going to the snow at this time of year.
17. Catalans Dragons Match
A lively rugby league match in Perpignan. Tickets generally range from €15–€30 for adults, with discounted children’s rates. The next home match is 28th February at 8pm. The atmosphere is energetic but family-friendly. Food stalls are available inside the stadium.
18. Celtic Spirit
A touring cultural or music performance 28th February with an afternoon and evening showing. Ticket prices vary depending on seating. Arrive early for parking and check age suitability.
19. L’Éveil des Lanternes
A lantern-themed evening celebration, often including light displays or community participation in Barcarès. Running to the 28th of February under 8 years are free of charge. Wrap up warm and check start times carefully as these are evening events.
20. Science Tour
At the foot of the Pyrénées 2000 slopes. Thanks to its laboratory truck, the Science Tour des Pyrénées offers fun activities to raise awareness of the environmental challenges facing the mountains. This is a free activity on the 1st March 10-16.30h Avenue du serrat de l’ours, 66210 BOLQUERE.
🎟 Learning on the Move
21. Fort Libéria (Villefranche-de-Conflent)
A mountain fortress reached by steep steps or 4×4 shuttle. Entry is usually around €8–€10 for adults, less for children. Expect impressive views and plenty of exploring space.
22. Water Museum – Maison de l’Eau
A second option for educational visits. Ideal for curious children interested in science and environment. Allow around 90 minutes.
23. Grottes des Canalettes
Guided cave tours explore underground formations. Entry is typically €12 for adults and €6 per child. Re-opens on the 28th of February. Bring a light jacket it’s cool underground year-round.
24. Prehistory Day at Musée de Préhistoire de Tautavel
Hands-on workshops and interactive exhibits bring early human history to life. Entry usually around €8–€10 for adults; children reduced. Plan 2–3 hours and check workshop booking in advance.
25. Médiathèques & Perpignan Libraries
During school holidays, libraries offer screenings, workshops, readings and digital sessions. Many activities are free but may require registration. A good low-cost option for mixed weather days.
School holidays don’t need to be perfect to be unforgettable. More often, it’s the simple moments — muddy boots, hot chocolate, confetti in coat pockets and tired legs after a long wander — that children remember most However you choose to fill the days, the Pyrénées-Orientales makes it wonderfully easy to step outside, try something new, and create family memories that last far beyond the holidays.
You can find my guide to the P-O Region HERE.