Join in the many festive celebrations happening at the HOTA precinct over the holiday season. From Christmas movies and markets, to a performance of The Nutcracker and plenty of New Year’s Eve fun, there’s an event for everyone, from families to flamenco dancers.
Every single one of these festive events takes place in the venues, parklands and at 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise.
City of Gold Coast Mayor's Christmas Carols - November 30
Come along and sing your heart out in a festive celebration of the City of Gold Coast’s Mayor’s Christmas Carols on Saturday November 30. See all your favourite carols performed live by some incredible singers including Dami Im and Budjerah. There’ll be Looney Tunes characters from Warner Bros. Movie World roaming around for photos and a spectacular fireworks finale!
Tickets to the event at HOTA’s Outdoor Stage a free, but limited. For those that miss out, the event will be broadcast on big screens at the HOTA Parklands right next door with free family entertainment and delicious food trucks (no tickets required).
Santa Photos
Get some festive photos with the main man of Christmas! Santa will be taking happy snaps at HOTA from December 10 - 21. Be sure to book because he’s very popular! Photo packages start from $20 with print and digital images available. Bring the family and make some Christmas memories.
Family Friendly Christmas Movies
Christmas is coming to HOTA Cinema with daily screenings of classic Christmas movies at 12.15pm on December 10, 11 and 12. See The Polar Express, Elf and A Christmas Carol for an easy (and air conditioned) summer holiday activity.
Get Your Gifts at HOTA
Give the gift of an unforgettable experience at HOTA. Forget socks or scented candles - give your loved ones a HOTA voucher, which can be used across the whole venue. They can spend it on ticket to any theatre production or live performance held in the precinct, or a dining experience The Exhibitionist or Palette.
Inside the Gallery on the Ground Level, HOTA Shop is the best place to pick up unique and creative presents for the person who has everything. From enamel pins and bespoke jewellery, to tote bags, postcards and specially commissioned works from artists, you’ll find special gifts for your special people.
The Nutcracker - December 16
Make some festive memories with the Sugar Plum Fairy in a winter wonderland. Presented by BIG, the traditional Christmas ballet is coming to HOTA Theatre! With incredible sounds and set design (hello snowflakes) The Nutcracker captivates the imagination, setting the scene for magic from some of the world’s best ballet dancers.
Christmas Actually (Theatre) - December 20
Relive the best musical moments from the iconic festive Film, Love Actually. This joyful performance is the ultimate starter to the silly season. An all-star cast led by Libby O’Donovan OAM deliver all the hits from the beloved soundtrack including songs by Mariah Carey, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Joni Mithcell and Norah Jones. Christmas Actually takes the stage on Friday December 20 - get your tickets quick!HOTA Christmas Twilight Market - December 21
Christmas shopping but make it markets - outdoor, lakeside, twilight markets no less. With over 150 artisan stalls and food vendors you can get stocked up on fresh produce and tasty treats for your Christmas feast, then get yourself a snack (and maybe a snap with Santa) and enjoy some live tunes. Jingle all the way to HOTA Christmas Twilight Markets on Saturday, December 21 from 4 - 9pm.
New Year’s Eve at HOTA
Take your pick from four fabulous New Year’s celebrations happening at HOTA. Treat yourself to a fine dining five-course meal paired with wines at Palette, the gallery restaurant that combines food and art.
Spend the night enjoying elevated vibes and city views from rooftop bar The Exhibitionist. An all inclusive package of delectable bites, canapes, cocktails and beverages will ensure the best night ever, complete with a midnight delight.
Or dance the night away under the stars at the New Year’s Eve Salsa on the Lawn Party. See out 2024 and welcome 2025 with live Latin soul music, salsa dancing and joyful fun.
See what else is happening on the Gold Coast for New Year’s Eve.
THE LATEST
News
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.