A Hitlist of Annual Gold Coast Events

Find an event that sparks excitement and save the date for your next visit to the Gold Coast.

If you’ve been eyeing a trip to the Gold Coast but you’re looking for a sign on when to make the journey exactly, consider planning your visit around one of the city’s biggest and best events.

From feel-good festivals and incredible art exhibitions to hearing the roar of the crowd at an action-packed sporting event, mark your calendar right now — future you will not regret it!

Music events on the Gold Coast

Put on your dancing shoes and discover the festival side of the Gold Coast’s music scene.

Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival

Held in the bustling Broadbeach precinct, Blues on Broadbeach is one of Australia’s largest free music festivals. Showcasing authentic blues music over four full days and nights, the lineup features both national and international artists on multiple stages.

cheerful crowd singing at Blues on Broadbeach — Sing your heart out at Blues on Broadbeach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

While you’re in town, discover more things to do in Broadbeach including getting to know the vibrant dining scene and nightlife.

a brightly lit concert stage during the Blues on Broadbeach 2021 — You’ve got no choice but to party all night. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Next event: 18 – 21 May 2023

Groundwater Country Music Festival

Another Broadbeach beauty is Groundwater Country Music Festival , bringing catchy riffs to the coast. Gathering some of the best artists in the industry, this is the perfect three-day event for country fans who love a good party.

Next event: 20 – 22 October 2023

Cultural events on the Gold Coast

Celebrate the city’s talented pool of artists right by the beach or sip a beer or five in the spirit of learning.

Gold Coast Film Festival

Bringing film to life in a distinctly Gold Coast way, the 12-day Gold Coast Film Festival puts on a show with more films, panels, parties, pop-up cinemas, and special events. The festival also attracts high-profile Australian film industry guests reinforcing the Gold Coast as one of Australia’s leading filmmaking destinations.

Next event: 19 – 23 April 2023

Cooly Rocks On Festival

Head to Coolangatta and be transported back in time as you celebrate the motors, music, and lifestyle of yesteryear at Cooly Rocks On Festival . For vehicle enthusiasts, the streets will be lined with over 900 incredible cars, scooters, and bikes, and if you put on your best dancing shoes, you can boogie on down to the best rock ‘n’ roll, swing, rockabilly and tribute artists from around the world. Last but not least, plan to spend some time shopping for a range of retro goods and vintage finds at the beachfront markets.

Next event: 7 – 11 June 2023

BLEACH* Festival

Want to feel inspired? As the Gold Coast’s annual contemporary arts festival, BLEACH* Festival celebrates the city’s most adventurous artists and welcomes renowned Australian and international collaborators.

Utilising the stunning natural landscape, the festival puts on a range of events showcasing incredible arts and cultural experiences such as dance, theatre, installations, opera, and more.

Every act is hand-picked to challenge expectations and change perceptions.

colourful designs at Bleach Festival 2020 — Stumble upon colourful art installations. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Next event: 3 – 13 August 2023

Pacific Airshow

Set to be the largest Airshow to ever take place in Australia, Pacific Airshow is a three-day weekend event featuring heart-pumping aerobatic demonstrations by the world’s finest aviators. This family-friendly show over Surfers Paradise is impressive no matter your age — prepare for four-plus hours of in-your-face flying!

Next event: 18 – 20 August 2023

SWELL Sculpture Festival

Queensland’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition SWELL Sculpture Festival comes to Currumbin Beach every year to celebrate art, culture, and community. With over 70 large-scale contemporary and thought-provoking sculptures to see, it’s worth taking your time at this event to learn about the story of each.

Next event: 8 – 17 September 2023

Crafted Beer & Cider Festival

Held over two epic days, the Crafted Beer & Cider Festival in Broadbeach is your opportunity to get up close and personal with brewers and try some of the 400+ new and exciting brews on offer. Some of Australia’s most popular acts will hit the stage over the weekend, and you can also chomp your way through the huge selection of food trucks.

Next event: 9 – 10 September 2023

Sports events on the Gold Coast

With the city’s persona of an active and healthy lifestyle, it’s no wonder sports events are extremely popular here. Get yourself front and centre as a participant or cheer on your favourites.

Pho3nix Gold Coast Triathlon – Luke Harrop Memorial

Grab your friends, family, work colleagues, or teammates together and get along to this year’s Pho3nix Gold Coast Tri – Luke Harrop Memorial , with the best triathletes in the world battling it out. Starting at Broadwater Parklands, swim 750 metres, cycle 20 kilometres, and run five kilometres. If you have kids feeling inspired to see what it’s all about, make a weekend of it and bring them down to the free “Try a Tri" in the Pho3nix Kids Triathlon.

Next event: 1 – 2 April 2023

Swim the Gold Coast

Fancy a competitive dip? Swim the Gold Coast is a marathon open water swim for teams, duos, and individuals featuring both 10-kilometre and 21-kilometre distances, spanning the length of the Gold Coast from Kirra Beach in the South to Surfers Paradise in the North.

Next event: 6 May 2023

Gold Coast Marathon

Playing host to eight races, the Gold Coast Marathon attracts participants of all ages and abilities around the world. With a reputation for its flat and fast course, run alongside beautiful beaches, from Paradise Point in the north to Burleigh Heads in the south. This event is a wonderful opportunity to get outdoors, challenge yourself, and raise funds for your chosen charity.

Next event: 1 – 2 July 2023

The Gold Coast 500

For Queensland’s largest car event, hit the beach-side race circuit in Surfers Paradise to see the biggest names in motorsport at The Gold Coast 500 . What’s extra special about this event is that the track is just three kilometres long, yet it’s a 300-kilometre race so drivers have to complete the circuit 100 times — it’s a spectator’s dream! Stick around for more entertainment over the weekend.

Next event: 27 – 29 October 2023

The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Carnival

Kick off the new year with entry to the most prestigious horse racing carnival in Queensland, The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Carnival . Held every January, there are plenty of events to get excited about over the 10-day carnival, but special mention goes to its hero race day which has cemented its reputation on the international racing scene.

Next event: January 2024

Gold Coast Open

Taking place at the iconic Burleigh Heads, some of the best Australian and International surfers will compete in the three-day Gold Coast Open . Much more than a professional surfing competition, this event celebrates the surf and coastal culture the region is renowned for.

While you’re in town, here’s your guide to exploring Burleigh Heads, including where to eat, play and stay.

Next event: February 2024

Looking for somewhere to stay? Here are 13 incredible Airbnbs on the Gold Coast.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

The annual Gold Coast events worthy of planning a trip around