Summer is here, and there is so much to see and do. Add these must-attend events to your calendar and get set for a ton of summer fun.
Show me what’s happening this week
North Burleigh Carols by the Sea | Thursday December 4 at Ed Hardy Park, Miami
A festive mixture of children’s activities, food trucks and live entertainment.
Christmas Music in the Village | Friday December 5 at The Village Green, Mudgeeraba
The Hinterland Community Band is back with their annual selection of Christmas concert tunes.
Improv Comedy Friyay | Friday December 5 at Currumbin Hotel, Currumbin Waters
Brought to you by Blah Blah Blah Improv – the only comedy night on the Gold Coast where you can bring the kids and have an alcoholic beverage!
Burleigh Village Christmas Markets | Saturday December 6 at Burleigh Village Uniting Church, Burleigh Heads
Come along and enjoy the Christmas Spirit with good food, lots of market stalls, kids activities and live music with Danny Dyson!
Christmas at Frascott | Saturday December 6 at Frascott Park, Varsity Lakes
Free festive fun for the whole family, with market stalls, trackless train rides, kids entertainment, food trucks and more.
www.christmasatfrascott.com.au
Tugun Lights Up | Saturday December 6 at Toolona Street, Tugun
Dine under the stars at one of the fantastic local cafés or restaurants, check out the local business offerings or visit the Christmas market stalls.
Ring of Fire: Opetaia vs. Cinkara | Saturday December 6 at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach
World championship boxing returns to the Gold Coast in a blockbuster main event.
Ceremony of Carols | Saturday December 6 at Church of the Good Shephard, Mudgeeraba
Step into the festive season with Coolamon Singers in a celebration of Yuletide music!
Christmas in Highland Reserve | Saturday December 6 at Tallowwood Park, Upper Coomera
Come along with the family, bring your picnic blanket, nibblies, chairs and have a great time.
Christmas Carols on the Green | Saturday December 6 at The Village Green, Mudgeeraba
Join local singing sensation and Christmas crooner Charlie Mitchell and the 20-piece Project Swing band for an evening of Christmas Carols.
Abigail’s Party | Friday November 21 to Saturday December 6 at the Spotlight Theatre, Benowa
Dawn China directs this classic comedy of manners from the 1970s where you will recognise the characters from your own life.
Mayor’s Christmas Carols | Saturday December 6 and Sunday December 7 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Enjoy two sparkling nights of live music, family fun and Christmas cheer.
High Tea with Santa, Mrs Claus and Rudolph | Saturday December 6 and Sunday December 7 at InterContinential Sanctuary Cove Resort
Celebrate the season in style with an unforgettable children’s High Tea experience with Santa, Mrs Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
The Real Inspector Hound | Friday December 5 to Sunday December 7 at Burleigh Studio, Burleigh Heads
Summer is here, and there is so much to see and do. Add these must-attend events to your calendar and get set for a ton of summer fun.
Santa Jet Ski Ride | Sunday December 7 at Marine Parade, Southport
Join the colourful Christmas parade, dress as Santa (or anything festive!) and raise money for Christmas Presents for Kids in Care.
Art and Craft Market | Sunday December 7 at Gold Coast Potters, Benowa
40 market local artisan stall holders selling a diverse range of hand-crafted wares including ceramics, wood, leather, art, jewelry and more.
Alicia Street Christmas Fair | Sunday December 7 at Alicia Street, Southport
Enjoy live music, market stalls, inflatable fun, and a visit from Santa Claus!
Carols on the Lawn | Thursday December 11 at Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Families and friends will gather for an evening of festive cheer and holiday magic under the stars.
Merry Currumbin | Friday December 12 at LJ Hooker, Currumbin Waters
Free ice cream, pet photos with Santa, and a festive spin-the-wheel activity with small prizes donated by local businesses.
Surfers Paradise Christmas Twilight Market | Friday December 12 and Saturday December 13 at The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
The Esplanade will twinkle with fairy lights, festive tunes, and beachside cheer as hundreds artisan stalls unwrap the best season.
www.surfersparadisemarkets.com.au
Christmas Flicks and Fireworks | Friday December 12 and Saturday December 13 at Surfers Paradise
Celebrate the magic of the season with the city’s newest coastal Christmas celebration!
Tugun Santa Visit | Saturday December 13 at Tugun RFLC
There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained, including face painting, an obstacle course, a jumping castle, and slushies. All free!
Varsity Carols by the Lake | Saturday December 13 at Varsity Promenade, Varsity Lakes
This truly unique festive celebration will feature live stage entertainment, Christmas carols, Santa, fireworks over the beautiful Lake Orr and much more.
Palm Beach Christmas Carols | Saturday December 13 at Palm Beach Parklands
Delight in tasty food from Dune Café and a range of food and drink stalls, while enjoying live entertainment, Christmas carols, and a special visit from Santa himself.
www.palmbeachchristmascarols.com.au
Born to be Wild AR Art Exhibition | Saturday December 13 at Gallery 8, Southport
Bring your phone and watch the painting come alive before your eyes.
Deck the Halls | Saturday December 13 at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach
Dust off those disco shoes and get ready to sparkle – Christmas fever is taking over at the Gold Coast’s favourite festive event.
Spotlight on Christmas | Saturday December 13 and Sunday December 14 at The Spotlight Theatrical Company, Benowa
Be part of the festive season with all the regular carols and some extra fun.
FantaSciIcon | Saturday December 13 and Sunday December 14 at Southport Community Centre
A two-day celebration of fantasy, sci fi, and storytelling. Filled with authors, artists, makers, and workshops that bring imagination to life.
Spilt Milk | Sunday December 14 at Gold Coast Sports Precinct, Carrara
Australia’s most in-demand festival, Spilt Milk, returns in 2025 with a lineup overflowing with some of the most talked about local and global artists.
Miami Village Christmas Party | Sunday December 14 at Miami Shopping Village
Bust out your Christmas sweaters, dress festive and enjoy a fun afternoon with the Miami community!
Northern Gold Coast Carols | Sunday December 14 at Brien Harris Oval, Ormeau
A free family event with pre-show entertainment, Santa, kids entertainment, food vans, all your favourite carols, fireworks and more.
www.northerngoldcoastcarols.com.au
Cooly Carols | Sunday December 14 at Queen Elizabeth Park, Coolangatta
This free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate the festive season.
Bringing the Light: Public Menorah Lighting | Sunday December 14 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport
Enjoy prayers, music, and sufganiyot as we bring the light of Chanukah to the Gold Coast.
The Pink Flamingo Circus Fun House | Saturday December 13 to Wednesday December 17 at The Pink Flamingo, Broadbeach
Due to popular demand, Circus Fun House is coming to the Gold Coast these December Christmas School Holidays for kids and their families.
Christmas Actually | Friday December 19 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Get in the festive spirit and relive the magic musical moments from beloved holiday classic ‘Love Actually’.
Silks Under the Stars Race Evening | Friday December 19 at Gold Coast Turf Club, Bundall
A unique highlight of the festive season, with live local racing, delicious dining, and an unbeatable atmosphere as the Coast comes alive as they ride at night.
Mint Art House Art Market | Saturday December 20 at Mint Art House, Burleigh Heads
Create. Connect. Collaborate. Ü4!A Markets is a monthly creative market focused on supporting local artists.
Broadwater Christmas Twilight Market | Saturday December 20 at the Great Lawn, Southport
A magical Christmas Twilight Market filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights and all your seasonal favourites.
Christmas at Greenheart | Saturday December 20 at Greenheart Robina Parklands, Robina
Celebrate this brand-new community event with festive markets, food trucks, free face painting, Christmas crafts, bubble fun, and a pop-up playground.
www.christmasatgreenheart.com.au
Pacific Pines Christmas Carols | Saturday December 20 at Pacific Pines Central Park
A magical night of festive fun as Pacific Pines comes alive with music, community spirit and Christmas cheer.
HOTA Christmas Twilight Markets | Saturday December 20 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Wander through a twinkling trail for artisans, makers, and gourmet delights, all waiting to fill your Christmas stockings (and maybe your belly too!).
Mermaid Waters Christmas Park Party | Saturday December 20 at McIlwain Family Park, Mermaid Waters
A free family event with music, food trucks, face painting, and the dazzling Flotilla of Lights as boats light up the waterways.
www.mermaidwaterschristmas.com.au
Sanity the Band | Saturday December 20 at The Helensvale Tavern
They’re bringing their huge party energy to The Cave band room with arena‑style rock/pop covers, sing‑along choruses and a dancefloor‑first setlist built for great nights.
Christmas Markets GC | Friday December 19 to Sunday December 21 at Macintosh Island Park, Main Beach
Take the stress out of Christmas with friends and family and enjoy 3 nights of entertainment, handmade gifts and gourmet eats.
Christmas in Broadbeach | Monday December 15 to Sunday December 21 at Gingerbread Village, Broadbeach Mall
Enjoy free family fun with festive workshops, a selfie with Santa and plenty of Christmas cheer in the magical gingerbread village.
Currumbin Christmas Carols | Sunday December 21 at Merv Craig Recreation Park, Currumbin Waters
featuring fun area entertainment and live stage performances until 7:30pm. Plus, the big man in the red suit – Santa – and a spectacular laser light show!
www.currumbinchristmascarols.com.au
Christmas Kirtan Party by the Beach | Sunday December 21 at Justins Park, Burleigh Heads
Bring a picnic, bring loved ones, and get ready for a night of music, meditation, and festive magic under the summer stars.
Christmas in Coomera | Saturday December 20 and Sunday December 21 at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre
Discover free festive fun the whole family can enjoy, including a DJ dance party, putt putt, roving entertainment and more.
Christmas in Broadbeach | Monday December 15 to Sunday December 21 at Broadbeach Mall
Enjoy free family fun with festive workshops, a selfie with Santa and plenty of Christmas cheer in the magical gingerbread village.
A Celtic Christmas by a Taste of Ireland | Tuesday December 23 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Direct from its Off-Broadway season, A Taste of Ireland – The Irish Music & Dance Sensation, presents its holiday spectacular, A Celtic Christmas.
Candlelight Concerts | Friday August 8 to Tuesday December 23 at Imperial Hotel, Main Beach
Bringing the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience from bands you know and love to awe-inspiring locations.
Light Up your Christmas Eve | Wednesday December 24 at Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise
Making a last-minute Christmas dash? Turn it into a celebration with free festive entertainment, beachfront dining and holiday vibes.
Currumbin Gift | Saturday January 3 at Salk Oval, Palm Beach
Come and watch the fastest sprinters battle it out at the Currumbin Gift. Live entertainment, food, drink and community stalls – a fun day for all.
The Unofficial Tribute Show – Taylor | Saturday January 3 at The Star, Broadbeach
Calling all Swifties – The Unofficial Tribute Show, Taylor: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music, is coming to Australia!
Dave Hughes: Cooked | Saturday January 3 at Currumbin RSL
Now more brutally honest than ever. Not only is he Australia’s best stand-up comedian – behind that cooked looking facade is a mind that works like no other.
Akmal: Live | Thursday January 8 at Soundlounge, Currumbin
Stand-up, movies, sketch, TV appearances, radio DJ, talk show host and a published author, Akmal is one of Australia’s most respected, successful and accomplished comics.
Burleigh Heads Single Fin Festival | Friday January 9 at Burleigh Point
Showcasing the hottest local talent taking on some of the surfing world’s greatest on 40 years old surfboards.
Jimeoin: Ballyhoo | Friday January 16 at The Star, Broadbeach
Bringing his unique blend of observational humour, physical expressiveness, and spontaneity.
Cinca x Costa Taco | Saturday January 17 at Costa Taco, Burleigh Heads
With live music, merch, exclusive tastings and margaritas, Cinca and Costa Taco’s collab is one party you won’t want to miss.
Gold Coast Water Lantern Festival | Saturday January 17 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Celebrate cherished memories, make wishes for the future, or simply appreciate the beauty of the moment.
Brett Blake | Saturday January 17 at Currumbin RSL
In 2002 Brett Blake was charged with inciting a riot, disorderly conduct and assaulting a public officer. Is he guilty? You be the judge.
PBC: Australia’s Largest Baby Expo | Saturday January 17 and Sunday January 18 at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
Discover all you need to know from bump, to birth and beyond. You won’t want to miss this.
Magic Millions Carnival | Wednesday January 7 to Monday January 19 at the Gold Coast Turf Club, Bundall
A fortnight-long celebration of all things equine, with 14 magnificent days on Australia’s number one holiday destination – the Gold Coast.
Silks Under the Stars Race Evening | Friday January 23 at Gold Coast Turf Club, Bundall
Back under lights, the Gold Coast comes alive at night for Silks Under The Stars Race Evening.
Beltran | Friday January 23 at Miami Marketta
From breakout hit to global dance floor domination, Beltran has become one of the most exciting names in house music.
Backyard Trail Run | Saturday January 24 at 1 Sawtell Drive, Currumbin Waters
An awesome community trail run, starting from the Keegan and Company HQ with 5km and 10km options. They’ll be joined by friends from LSKD and Sun Devil – yes, Alex will supply his world-famous cold brew.
Revolve Festival | Saturday January 24 at Carrara Markets
A line up of the best DJ’s and electronic music producers from around the Gold Coast and beyond, taking over Carrara Markets for the first event of its kind.
Patrick Topping, Alex Hayes, Kell Reese | Sunday January 25 at Miami Marketta
International tech-house sensation Patrick Topping headlines this unmissable night with supporting DJs Alex Hayes, Kell Reese, Mezmure, Bella Love and Franki Magic.
Dawnbreak: Kurrawa Beach | Saturday January 24 and Sunday January 25 at Kurrawa Beach, Broadbeach
A sober sunrise silent disco on the beach centred around genuine connection, community and joy.
Burleigh Swim Run Challenge | Monday January 26 at Justins Park, Burleigh Heads
Join the 15th annual Burleigh Swim Run Australia Day Challenge. This fantastic community fitness event brings together families, friends, and fitness enthusiasts of all ages!
Australia Day Celebrations | Monday January 26 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Enjoy live and local music at this family friendly, free event, with an assortment of delicious food trucks and a fireworks finale!
NBL Ignite Cup | Wednesday January 28 at Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, Carrara
The Brisbane Bullets are set to host two regular season games on the Gold Coast, as part of the newly launched Ignite Cup.
Lobby x Quince Supper Club | Saturday January 31 at Lobby Bar, Currumbin Waters
A night dedicated to the art of the meal. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a guided culinary journey designed to celebrate whole foods, clever twists, and the joy of connection.
The Growlers | Saturday January 31 at Miami Marketta
Cult-favourite band The Growlers return to Australia as part of their first global run since 2019.
Iron Series | Saturday January 31 and Sunday February 1 at Miami Beach
Witness the fittest and fastest surf lifesaving athletes in the world take on the ocean in a series of races that are designed to test their speed, endurance, and ability to read the surf.
AACTA Festival | Wednesday February 4 to Sunday February 8 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
The 2025 AACTA Festival brought together Australia’s top creatives for five unforgettable days of film, television, and storytelling.
Screen Careers Expo | Saturday February 7 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Find out everything you need to know about building a career in the exciting screen industry.
Laneway Festival | Saturday February 7 at Southport Sharks
This year, Laneway Festival will make its Gold Coast debut at Southport Sharks — a fresh backdrop and the perfect chance to connect with fans.
Gold Coast Kiwi Festival | Saturday February 7 at CSi Southport
In tribute to Waitangi, the heart of Aotearoa and the Pacific is coming to Southport for a spectacular showcase of music, dance, and community.
Q Splash: Queensland Manu and Bomb Diving Championships | Saturday February 7 at Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, Southport
Everyone knows that diving is about making as little splash as possible. This competition flips that on its head.
Back to the Moon: Artemis II & the New Space Age | Saturday February 7 at Syd Duncan Park, Lower Beechmont
Discover humanity’s return to the Moon, what comes next in space exploration, then look to the night sky with real telescopes and discover the wonders above.
Let’s Go Gold Coast Caravan and Outdoor Expo | Friday February 6 to Sunday February 8 at People First Stadium, Broadbeach
Bringing together the latest caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes and outdoor adventure gear, all under one roof.
Anniversary of the National Apology | Friday February 13 at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Burleigh Heads
An opportunity for us to create a platform for those of us affected by the Stolen Generations, and a safe space for their voices to be heard.
Your Local Wedding Guide | Sunday February 15 at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach
When you visit Your Local Wedding Guide Gold Coast Expo, expect to be inspired by exciting new products and ideas.
Cha Cha Cha Party | Saturday February 14 and Sunday February 15 at Shiro Gelato & Snack, Southport
A two-day-only festival featuring carefully sourced matcha/tea from Japan, showcasing authentic flavors, culture, and stories!
Ironman Classic | Friday February 13 to Sunday February 15 at Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club, Surfers Paradise
Witness the most prestigious event in surf sports history, seeing the world’s best surf sports stars do battle for their shot at over $300,000.
World Club Championship | Friday February 13 to Sunday February 15 at Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta
The 2026 World Club Championship hits Snapper Rocks, uniting 32 of the world’s best boardriders clubs for three epic days of surfing.
www.worldclubchampionship.com.au
The Amity Affliction | Sunday February 15 at Miami Marketta
Following multiple sold-out Australian headline tours, international runs and chart-topping releases, the band returns to deliver a full headline set.
‘Tropicana’: The Exhibition by Bernadette Twomey | Wednesday February 11 to Tuesday February 17 at Studio 8, Currumbin
Through bold abstraction and expressive mark making, Twomey has created an immersive visual experience that feels both joyful and alive.
The Church: The Singles Tour | Thursday February 19 at Miami Marketta
To celebrate The Church’s incredible songbook, this tour will see them play 20 of their classic singles spanning their career.
Suncorp Spirit Cup | Friday February 20 at Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, Carrara
The Queensland Firebirds and Sunshine Coast Lightning will re-ignite their rivalry in this thrilling pre-season match.
Farmers Union Morning Rave | Saturday February 21 at Cali Beach, Surfers Paradise
Farmers Union is bringing big morning energy to the Gold Coast, teaming up with Cali Beach Club and AM Social to deliver a DJ-led morning rave.
Lunar New Year | Saturday February 21 at Chinatown, Southport
Saddle up and celebrate the Year of the Horse in Chinatown this Lunar New Year, with entertainment, amazing food deals, kids’ activities and fireworks!
Kidzchella: Disco at Greenheart | Saturday February 21 at Greenheart Robina Parklands
Get ready for a kids-first festival packed with colour, music and big smiles.
The Darkness| Saturday February 21 at Miami Marketta
Multi-platinum UK rock royalty The Darkness are set to make their triumphant return to Australia with an epic summer show.
Zeppelin: The Life & Times with the GC Orchestra | Saturday February 21 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Triathlon Pink | Sunday February 22 at Gold Coast Performance Centre, Runaway Bay
Ramsay Health Care Triathlon Pink is not your average triathlon – it is all about the ladies and is all about fun.
Lunar New Year | Now to Sunday February 22 at Australia Fair, Southport
Don’t miss their vibrant program of cultural performances, festive photo opps, family-friendly fun and must-visit dining throughout the Lunar New Year period.
Gold Coast Open | Wednesday February 18 to Sunday February 22 at Burleigh Hill
The three-day event will see some of the world’s best surfers from all corners of the globe battle it out against Australia’s best surfers.
World Para Swimming World Series | Friday February 20 to Sunday February 22 at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, Southport
Para swimmers will own the headlines and compete in their own stand-alone World Series event in Australia.
Regurgitator: The Jukeboxxin’ Tour | Friday February 27 at Miami Marketta
A high-voltage greatest hits show, blasting through 32 years of genre-bending singles in a hyper-charged jukebox journey of pure aural chaos and nostalgia.
Flaming Hearts Fest | Saturday February 28 at Iron & Resin, Currumbin Waters
Taking over Iron & Resin, delivering a stacked line-up of East Coast rock and alternative acts – plus local creatives, tattoo artists and pop-up stalls.
Dogs on the Green | Saturday February 28 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport
The Gold Coast’s greatest doggie day out. Delicious food and coffee trucks and everything you need to keep your furry mate entertained, fed and healthy.
Lunar New Year Festival Finale | Saturday February 28 at Broadbeach Senior Citizen’s Centre
Enjoy the splendour of Chinese cultures with live performances, lions and dragons, multicultural displays and delicious food.
Planetary Parade | Saturday February 28 at Syd Duncan Park, Lower Beechmont
A chance to witness six planets aligned and explore the night sky through guided astronomy and telescope viewing.
Tarzan the Stage Musical | Thursday February 12 to Saturday February 28 at The Spotlight Theatre, Benowa
A must-see for the whole family, don’t miss this outstanding musical based on the Disney movie with music by Phil Collins.
Waitangi at Gold Coast | Sunday March 1 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport
A powerful and joyful day celebrating Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Ao Māori, culture, connection, and community on the beautiful Gold Coast.
World Club Challenge | Friday February 27 to Sunday March 1 at Rainbow Bay
Much more than a surf contest, the World Club Challenge Cup aims to once again produce a kaleidoscope of community, culture and the arts.
www.worldclubchampionship.com.au
Shen Yun | Wednesday February 25 to Sunday March 1 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Shen Yun – the beauty of divine beings dancing – takes you on an extraordinary journey through China’s 5000 years of magnificent culture.
Shakespeare’s Titus Andronicus | Thursday February 26 to Friday March 6 at Griffith University Theatre, Southport
This bold, high-energy production showcases some of the Gold Coast’s finest local actors, delivering Shakespeare’s brutal tragedy through a striking blend of physical theatre and emotional intensity.
