The annual Gold Coast events worthy of planning a trip around

Jemma Fletcher Jemma Fletcher
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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.

a band performing in front of a crowd at the Groundwater Country Music Festival
Catch superb musical performances at the Groundwater Country Music Festival. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

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

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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.

indigenous performers at Bleach Festival 2020
Get a glimpse of Indigenous arts and culture at the Bleach* Festival. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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.

a huge sculpture at the Swell Sculpture Festival
Marvel at the huge sculptures on the beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

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

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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.

thousands of runners at the starting point of the Gold Coast marathon
Thousands of runners participate in the annual Gold Coast Marathon. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

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.

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Jemma Fletcher
Based in sun-kissed Brisbane, Jemma Fletcher is an accomplished writer, editor and content manager. Armed with a Bachelor of Journalism from The University of Queensland, as well as over a decade of tourism marketing experience, Jemma now specialises in freelance travel writing and has a soft spot for the beauty of Queensland. Her expertise has been honed through her previous roles as Chief Editor of Queensland.com and WeekendNotes.com and she is the passionate creator of High Cup of Tea, an online directory celebrating Australia's finest high tea experiences. After growing up in the UK (hence her love for tea and scones) and a delightful chapter in Sydney, Jemma loves to explore quaint towns with a rich history. Also high on her weekend list is tasting the local cafe scene, enjoying charming farm stays with her young family and deciding where her next travel adventure will be (half of the fun is in the planning!)
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Tropical islands, good food & world-class shows: Your eventful guide to a holiday in Townsville

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
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    Townsville is buzzing as the events capital of North Queensland, with a host of festivals, international sporting and arts events on offer.

    Perched between the Coral Sea, the towering pink monolith of Castle Hill, and fringed by ancient rainforest ranges, Townsville North Queensland is a genuine tropical playground.

    Here, find postcard-worthy landscapes all the way from nearby Magnetic Island to inland swimming holes and waterfalls – all dotted with an array of endemic wildlife. Get the heart racing with adrenaline water sports. Soak in a world-class arts scene. And take advantage of a culinary offering that punches well above its weight.

    And, then there’s the fact that Townsville has fast become the destination to an outstanding line-up of events – from live music to top-level sporting contests.

    Whether you have a weekend or weeks, there’s plenty here to fill your tropical getaway.

    Day 1: An eventful day

    Morning

    The Strand in townsville
    Explore The Strand.

    Daily flights offer easy connectivity from all capital cities to Townsville Airport, and within 10 minutes’ drive, you’re in the city centre. Start your stay by recharging with breakfast or coffee at the city’s newest spot, Botaniq Cafe, on the ground floor of the award-winning Bridgewater restaurant on the banks of Ross Creek.

    Start exploring on a breezy walk along the 2.5-kilometre foreshore of The Strand. Here, a waterfront path stretches all the way to the headland of Jezzine Barracks parklands. Admire more than 35 sculptures and artworks, as well as stunning views from the top of the park. Further along, Queens Gardens, established in 1870, offers a cool retreat and is Townsville’s oldest botanic garden.

    Stroll Gregory Street, off The Strand, for boutiques, homeware stores, cafes and restaurants, or follow a self-guided street art walking trail through the city centre, stopping to admire colourful works by big-name artists including Queenslander Fintan Magee.

    Afternoon

    concert in front of castle hill townsville events
    Time your trip for one of many Townsville events.

    For a casual lunch, stop in at Balabite for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired street food. Build your own pita with a choice of fillings, before enjoying a relaxing afternoon in preparation for one of Townsville’s big events.

    Whether it’s a concert from a big-name international band – think Foo Fighters or Guns ‘n’ Roses – or a night cheering on the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup, there’s plenty to entertain you.

    Time your visit for events like the Townsville Folk Festival (June 12-14), Supercars Townsville 500 (July 10-12), Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week (August 27-September 2), North Australian Festival of Arts (September 25 – October 11) or see the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup (coming in 2027).

    Day 2: Island dreaming

    Morning

    Pilgrim Sailing magnetic island
    Take a lunchtime sailing trip with Pilgrim Sailing.

    Fuel up with breakfast at Cbar on The Strand, looking out to your destination for the day: Magnetic Island (or ‘Maggie’ to the locals). Catch a quick ferry to spend the day exploring walking trails through national park, choosing from 23 beaches and trying a hand at the island’s water sports.

    The Forts Walk is the best place to see wild koalas in Australia, and you’re likely to find friendly wallabies at the Nelly or Geoffrey Bay headlands. Try guided snorkelling with Aquascene Magnetic Island or Pleasure Divers, or take a land-based tour with MI Ride Discovery Tours to the secluded west coast of the island.

    Pilgrim Magnetic Island offers four-hour lunchtime sailing trips aboard a 58-foot luxury yacht, dropping in to some of Magnetic Island’s remote bays for snorkelling or swimming and including gourmet grazing platters, drinks and ocean views.

    Afternoon

    picnic bay on magnetic island
    Head to Picnic Bay for delicious dining.

    Refuel after a morning of adventure. Seasalt Arcade at Picnic Bay has several good options. Savour craft brews and Latin tapas at Maggie Island Brewery, opt for bagels and light bites at Lava Lava cafe or fine dining at Restaurant Elsie.

    Now, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Stay the whole day on Maggie, or return to Townsville, where there’s plenty more to discover.

    Head to The Docks at Flinders Street Wharves for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or join Poseidon Adventures for water sport adventures.

    Evening

    Ardo's Rooftop townsville
    End your day watching the sunset from Ardo’s Rooftop.

    However your day looked, end it with cocktails and canapes at Townsville’s Ardo Rooftop. Find something more substantial at the hotel’s elegant but casual Chef-hatted Japanese restaurant Terasu, where each dish is a work of art.

    Day 3: Natural delights

    Morning

    couple holiding hands at the top of castle hill in townsville
    Join the locals for an early walk to the peak of Castle Hill. (Credit: My Colourful World)

    Join the local early morning pilgrimage to hike up Castle Hill for the best 360-degree views in town, before heading to breakfast at Spirited Goat for gourmet treats and locally brewed coffee.

    A trip to Townsville wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the outer Great Barrier Reef. For those with time, Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive runs full-day trips to the Museum of Underwater Art for snorkellers and divers to admire the reef’s stunning collection of submerged sculptures on John Brewer Reef, about two hours by boat from Townsville.

    Afternoon

    Shorehouse restaurant townsville
    Stop into the award-winning Shorehouse.

    Round off your Townsville getaway with lunch at Shorehouse, awarded Best Restaurant in the North Queensland People’s Choice Awards every year since 2023. Dine on the deck to catch the breeze and sample modern Asian cuisine as you watch the world go.

    Keen for something more to extend your stay? There are always more adventures –new, familiar and with a twist – in the events capital of the North.

    Plan your eventful visit to Townsville North Queensland at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au.