School holidays are officially looking a lot more exciting because Alamanda Shopping Centre and Mesra Mall Kemamanare bringing back their much-loved VIKids Carnival this May — and honestly, it sounds like the perfect excuse for families to spend quality time together while keeping the kids entertained.

Running from 20 May to 7 June 2026, Alamanda’s version of the carnival is going all out with a retro-futuristic vibe inspired by the colourful neon aesthetics of the 1980s. Think glowing neon lights, giant cassette tapes, boombox props, palm trees, and even a classic black-and-white checkered floor transforming the Centre Court into a playful throwback wonderland.

It’s not just about pretty photo spots either. Families can expect traditional funfair-style games, arcade zones, and interactive arts & crafts workshops designed to keep little ones busy throughout the school break. The entire atmosphere feels energetic, nostalgic, and family-friendly all at once — exactly the kind of wholesome mall event parents appreciate during the holidays.

Weekends are set to become even livelier with daily performances happening every Saturday and Sunday. Expect high-energy Neon Dance performances, magic shows that will keep kids wide-eyed, and balloon clown acts adding even more carnival charm to the experience.

What makes the VIKids Carnival extra appealing is how rewarding it is for shoppers too. Existing VIKids members who spend RM300 and above in a maximum of two receipts at specialty stores can redeem two complimentary Carnival Passes, while non-members can enjoy the same perks with a minimum spend of RM500. These passes unlock access to selected games and activities, making it a fun-filled day out without parents constantly reaching for their wallets.

Meanwhile over in Kemaman, Mesra Mall Kemaman is taking a more creative and hands-on approach with its own VIKids Carnival happening from 22 to 26 May 2026.

This year’s theme revolves around stationery-inspired fun — and honestly, it sounds adorable. Kids will get to enjoy an interactive photo area complete with giant stationery-themed décor and selfie spots, while daily DIY workshops from 2PM to 6PM encourage children to unleash their creativity.

From designing personalised school timetables and stationery holders to making pencil toppers and bookmarks, the workshops are created to be both entertaining and educational at the same time. It’s the kind of activity that keeps kids engaged while letting them bring home something they proudly made themselves.

Mesra Mall is also rewarding shoppers through its VIKids programme. Members who spend RM50 and above in a single receipt can redeem two complimentary workshop tickets, while new VIKids registrations with a minimum RM100 spend will receive two workshop passes plus a special Stationery Set Goodie Bag — limited to the first 300 sign-ups.

According to Francis Tan, Executive Director and CEO of Suria KLCC Group, the VIKids Carnival continues to focus on creating meaningful experiences for families during the school holidays, whether through Alamanda’s vibrant neon-inspired carnival atmosphere or Mesra Mall’s creativity-driven workshops.

Honestly, both malls are offering two very different but equally fun experiences this school holiday season — one packed with retro carnival energy, the other filled with hands-on creativity. Either way, it’s a good reminder that family outings don’t always have to be complicated to become memorable.