The ultimate celebration of surf, sea and cinematic gold starts on the Gold Coast today. But what are the must-attend events on the Flotsam Surf Film & Photography Festival program?
Returning for its fourth year, Flotsam Festival is one of the world’s largest surf, art and culture festivals – a launching pad for local and international ocean-inspired creatives.
Taking place throughout the Gold Coast, from Burleigh to Cooly, Flotsam Festival is continuing its mission to showcase artists and storytellers. And it’s only going from strength to strength.
“Flotsam Festival was created to celebrate our coastline when things were bleak, shining a light on the vibrant arts and culture of this region and Australia at large,” says Flotsam Festival Director, Carolyn Emge. “This year, we have also strived to ensure sponsors are Australian-owned businesses who are throwing down to ensure the next generation of creatives have a platform.”
Running from May 1 to 14, you’ll have to act fast to enjoy all that Flotsam Festival has to offer. Here are just three of the must-attend events you can expect…
The Block Party
What better way to welcome Flotsam’s return to the Gold Coast than with a blowout Block Party? Taking place throughout Coolangatta’s best-loved haunts on Thursday May 1, you’ll see the precinct come alive with surf flicks, DJ sets, live music, workshops, exhibitions and epic projections – and it’s all free to attend. It’s all happening from 5pm to 8.30pm.
The Kirra Immerse Hub
Then, from Friday May 2 to Sunday May 4, the Kirra Immerse Hub will take centre stage as Flotsam’s brand new beachside launchpad. This free weekend activation invites festival goers to experience open-air surf cinema under the stars, hands-on creative workshops, art installations and live music – all just steps from the shoreline at Kirra’s Roughton Park.
(Surf) Girls on Film
And there’s even more fun to come. On Thursday May 8, (Surf) Girls On Film will shine a spotlight on women’s surf coverage – from all sides of the lens. Don’t miss this stellar line-up of female creator-led panels and a curated selection of international shorts, photo projections, and film celebrating women in surf.
