Clear your calendar – from beer festivals to music festivals, not to mention a world record attempt involving koala ears, there is so much to do this spring.
Swell Sculpture Festival | Friday September 9 to Sunday September 18 at Currumbin
Queensland’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition returns to Currumbin! Swell will deliver not only impressive artworks, but live music, comedy, guided twilight walks, and talks and workshops from the artists themselves, too.
Burleigh Festival | Friday September 16 to Sunday September 18 in Burleigh
The ultimate celebration of all things Burleigh, spread over three days of food, wine, music, surfing and surf life saving. With music curated by Boo Seeka, a surfing competition hosted by Burleigh Boardriders and picnic lunches provided by the best restaurants and wine providers Burleigh has to offer, this free festival is not to be missed.
WONDER | Friday September 16 to Monday September 25 at HOTA
Gold Coast locals and visitors are invited to celebrate the changing of the seasons with spectacular art in the outdoors. Don’t miss the world premiere of Alcazar, an incredible 7 metre tall by 13 metre wide installation by the artists at Atelier Sisu, which will play backdrop to several events across the 10 days of WONDER at HOTA.
Bubbles, books and brunch with Ellidy Pullin | Thursday September 29 in Varsity Lakes
Ellidy Pullin’s story sounds like something out of a novel – now, with the release of her memoir ‘Heartstrong’, it is. Join Ellidy as she talks about her life, her late partner Chumpy and their daughter Minnie over bubbles and brunch.
Promiseland Festival | Friday September 30 to Saturday October 1 in Doug Jennings Park
Lovers of live music, listen up! Promiseland Festival is set to deliver two days of unmissable reggae, hip hop and alternative artists (we’re talking Wyclef Jean, Burna Boy, Sons of Zion and more) to Main Beach.
Spaced Out Festival | Saturday October 8 at Burleigh Bazaar
Get set for an our of this world line up, featuring the likes of Shagg Rock, Peach Fur and Daily J. Returning to Burleigh Bazaar for the second time, festival goers are encouraged to grab tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Gold Coast Open House | Tuesday October 4 to Sunday October 16 all over the Gold Coast
Part of Open House Worldwide, this event will highlight the extraordinary local buildings, places and spaces that shape our city and lifestyle. It will deliver more than 30 events including architect-led building tours, self-guided tours, photo competitions and more.
The Grass is Greener | Saturday October 22 in Doug Jennings Park
Join PNAU, Stick Fingers, Zhu and more at the Grass is Greener. This Queensland-born festival has become a highlight on the Gold Coast calendar, known for bringing international acts to the Glitter Strip for two days of fun in the sun.
Gold Coast Beer and Cider Festival | Saturday October 22 at the Broadwater Parklands
For the first time ever, the Gold Coast’s beer and cider scene will be celebrated with its very own festival. Sample up to 250 beers and ciders, taste delicious food, participate in a charity raffle and enjoy the program of activities and events.
www.gcbeerciderfestival.com.au
Burleigh Ocean Swim | Sunday October 23 at Justins Park
Back for its 13th year, the Burleigh Ocean Swim offers open water swims over three distances – 400m (for juniors), 1km and 2km. The honour of coming in first isn’t the only way to win on the day, either; there are cash, random draws and other prizes up for grabs.
Groundwater Country Music Festival | Friday October 28 to Sunday October 30 at Broadbeach
Some of the biggest names in country music will soon touch down on the Gold Coast. From headliners Fanny Lumsden and Travis Collins to international acts like Kaylee Bell and Dan Davidson, it’s set to be a massive three days.
Farm Gate Trail | Sunday October 30 at Scenic Rim
Don’t miss the chance to escape the city and enjoy a day out while supporting local farmers. With 20 stops on offer – including cheese tastings, brewery tours and camel selfies – some of region’s best providers will invite the city to the country to showcase their slice of Queensland.
Halloween on the Gold Coast | Saturday October 29 and Sunday October 30
The Gold Coast is the place to be this Halloween. Prepare to scream at our most iconic theme parks (and not just on the rollercoasters) or don your best costume for spook-tacular parties across the city. Check out our round up of the best events happening over Halloween weekend below.
Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 | Friday October 28 to Sunday October 30 in Surfers Paradise
After three years, the fastest, most thrilling event of the year is back. Along with the excitement on the track, the line up of live entertainment including Bliss n Eso, Carl Cox and Sneaky Sound System will keep the party going off the track, too.
Santa Claus is coming to town | Various shopping centres
You’d better watch out, you’d better not cry, because jolly old Saint Nick is officially landing on the Gold Coast this weekend and he’s bringing a whole lot of festive fun along with him. Our friends at haven magazine have listed the places you can find him this year.
Welcome to Summer | Thursday November 17 from 6pm at the Burleigh Pavilion
What better way to welcome in summer than with a classic Burleigh Pav beach party? With live music from Jack Kennedy, Curtis Young, Tyler Green and Bag Raiders themselves (DJ set), not to mention free-flowing drinks and a killer view, it’s sure to be a blast.
Festival X | Sunday November 27 at Alabaster Sports Fields
Here’s yet another music festival to add to the calendar! Festival X will bring international acts like Calvin Harris and Megan thee Stallion to the Gold Coast, as well as major cities like Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Perth.
Spring Racing at Aquis Park | September to November at the Gold Coast Turf Club
Spring means only one thing for the Gold Coast Turf Club, and that’s back-to-back horse racing. Head trackside to celebrate iconic racedays like the Caulfield Cup, Derby Day and the Melbourne Cup, all at beautiful Aquis Park.
www.gctc.com.au/raceday-events
Gold Coast Beach Parade | Sunday December 4 at The Esplanade, Burleigh
Ever wanted to be part of a world record attempt? Now’s your chance – the Gold Coast Beach Parade is a world record attempt for the most people wearing koala ear visors in beach walk. Yes, that’s a thing.