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Find Your Perspective
There's a rumour that we're not a very "artsy" place. Good thing it's just a rumour. Galleries, theatre groups, nostalgia museums, sculpture festivals and indigenous performances just brush the surface of a cultural canvas that goes far deeper. As they say - art is purely a matter of perspective after all. Looking for more inspiration? Check out the cultural highlights of the Gold Coast hinterland.
arts & culture
- Free Event
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From now until 05 Dec 2026
Quiet Hour
On the first Saturday of every month between 9am-10am we offer Quiet Hour in HOTA Gallery. Our Quiet Hour is provided to ensure a relaxed and calm environment for anyone who prefers a quieter visitor experience. Please meet at Ground Entry for access to Quiet Hour.During Quiet Hour: Signage encourages visitors to contribute to a more calming environment Tannoys (public address system) are turned off Music is turned off Accessible bathrooms without electric hand dryers available for use Lower sound and light levels are employed where possible We can provide a quiet break out space, please ask a member of staff A Social Story for the Gallery is available at reception and to download below.
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From now until 21 Oct 2026
Sense And Sensibility
From Focus Features and Working Title comes an irresistible new take on Jane Austen’s iconic Sense and Sensibility: a charming, witty, and deeply relatable story of love and sisterhood starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles.
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From now until 08 Nov 2026
UNLEASHED+
artisan are proud to present their biennial exhibition UNLEASHED+ at HOTA Gallery in 2026. Since 2004, artisan's UNLEASHED biennial exhibition has established itself as Queensland's premier platform for launching emerging craft and design practitioners. This year, UNLEASHED+ marks a significant evolution, introducing artisan’s largest cohort of artists to date, in partnership with HOTA, Home of the Arts. This exhibition unfolds in two chapters, bringing together emerging Queensland makers at a pivotal moment in their creative development. The first presents work from the inaugural artisan in Residence program, where five craft and design practitioners were engaged to develop new bodies of work, exploring process, gesture and material expression. The second chapter introduces the UNLEASHED+ biennial, supporting twelve makers through exhibition, mentoring and market development. The 2026 finalists were selected by a panel of leading art, culture and design professionals including Sally Brand, Dr Simon Maidment, Imelda Miller, Brian Parkes and Kimberly Stokes. Together, these artists reflect the exciting innovation of Queensland's emerging talent, offering compelling approaches to metal, timber, clay, glass and textiles. Gathering talent from the Gold Coast, Scenic Rim, Ipswich, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Townsville and Cairns, this exhibition represents a fresh chapter for craft and design in Queensland. UNLEASHED+ 2026 Finalists Ben Adams, Julia Bramich, Céline Caron, Gabi Harris, Petalia Humphreys, Jacqueline Kaytar, Michelle Le Plastrier, William MacLean, Jude Muduioa, Rachel North, Rhiannon Sothern, Tom Summersartisan Residence 2025-2026 Alumni Regi Cherini, Erin Conron, Norton Fredericks, Rick Hayward, Natalie Ward To learn more about the exhibiting artists, visit artisan.org.auAbout artisanartisan is Queensland's premier craft and design organisation. Since 1970, artisan have led, fostered, and profiled craft and design through place-based development and partnership programs. Makers and creators are central to everything they do. For over 55 years, artisan has been building pathways, creating opportunities, and championing Queensland's unique craft and design practitioners.
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From now until 18 Oct 2026
This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art
This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art is a demonstration of art’s power to document change, challenge perception and connect across cultures. Capturing the energetic spirit of 21st-century China, this extraordinary exhibition features bold, experimental artworks produced over the last 25 years that reclaim history, interrogate authority and reflect profound social change. Fearlessly engaging with complex global themes and China’s tumultuous history, the artists featured in This Moment challenge prevailing perceptions of modern China. From mesmerising light installations to powerful video art and large-scale sculpture, the experiential artworks in This Moment command attention with sheer scale and striking visual intensity, leaving their mark on your psyche and your social feed. Founded by philanthropist Judith Neilson in 2009, Sydney's White Rabbit Gallery showcases one of the world’s most significant private collections of Chinese contemporary art. Now in a Queensland exclusive, audiences can experience highlights from the collection at HOTA for free. This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art features more than 35 works by 25 artists with artworks spanning video, photography, painting, light-based installations and monumental sculpture. The exhibition includes works by leading artists such as Geng Xue, Guo Jian, LuYang, Peng Hung-Chih, Xu Zhen, Zhang Dali and Zhang Peili.
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From now until 29 Nov 2026
Prison Island
Prison Island is an interactive adventure where teams take on 39 thrilling challenge cells. Perfect for all ages and group types including friends, families, or co-workers.The experience offers 60 to 120 minutes of gameplay with 39 unique themed cells and an adrenaline-fueled team challenge. Teams of 2 to 5 can participate, ideal for friends, families and co-workers. A thrilling mix of mental puzzles, physical challenges and team coordination is offered. Teams work to collect as many points as possible before time runs out.Perfect for any occasion including birthday celebrations, team building and bachelor and bachelorette parties.
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From now until 18 Oct 2026
Groundwater Country Music Festival at Pig ’N’ Whistle Broadbeach
Country music is taking over The Pig! Pig 'N' Whistle Broadbeach joins Groundwater Country Music Festival as a festival venue for three days of live tunes on the Gold Coast.Friday brings Tané-Rua, Tate Cole and Michael Honan to the stage. Saturday's lineup features Beth Lucas, Dane Sharp and Pete Cullen, with Paper Daisies and Michael Honan rounding out Sunday.Cold pints and pub favourites make it easy to settle in for a favourite set or make an afternoon of it with mates.Set times are subject to change. Program updates are available through the Experience Gold Coast app.
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17 Oct 2026 - 23 Jan 2027
Energies 26
Energies is an annual exhibition showcasing the exceptional creative talents of senior secondary students on the Gold Coast. For nearly forty years, this prestigious exhibition has provided emerging artists with a professional platform to present their work, empowering students to pursue careers in the arts. Energies is a celebration of the creativity of our young people shaping the artistic future of the region.2026 Submissions are now closed.
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17 Oct 2026
Wedding Showcase at Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise
Dreaming of the perfect Gold Coast wedding?Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise invites couples to a Wedding Showcase.Rising 77 levels above the golden sands and crystal-clear waters of the Gold Coast, Peppers Soul is the ultimate backdrop for the wedding of dreams.Whether picturing a sunset ceremony or a glamorous high-rise reception, unique visions are brought to life with bespoke packages tailored to each couple.Couples are invited to explore the spaces, meet preferred wedding suppliers, and discover how dream days can be brought to life.Where: Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise.Free entry (registration required).VIP perks: a complimentary spritz on arrival, complimentary nibbles.
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17 Oct 2026
Movies Under the Stars: The Wild Robot, Robina - Free
What better way to spend an evening than outdoors watching a movie under the stars!The City of Gold Coast Movies Under the Stars program is free, family-friendly fun on offer from September 2026 through to April 2027 right across the city.Gather your family and friends, pack a picnic or take advantage of delicious food options available in the local area.*** TICKETS NOT REQUIRED – JUST SHOW UP! ***Tickets are not required, however you can ‘reserve a spot’ on Eventbrite to sign up for event updates/reminders.Event date: Saturday, 17 October 2026Location: Greenheart Parklands, RobinaDoors at 6pmMovie starts: 6.30pmMovie: The Wild RobotAfter a shipwreck, an intelligent robot called Roz is stranded on an uninhabited island. To survive the harsh environment, Roz bonds with the island's animals and cares for an orphaned baby goose.Rating: PG | Length: 102 minsThis Movies Under the Stars event is proudly brought to the Division 11 community by Cr Dan Doran. @CouncillorDanDoranIf weather is uncertain - or for more information including updates - please see the Spectrum or Facebook Event page.For a list of Movies Under the Stars events, see www.spectrumentertainment.com.au/events/category/outdoor-cinema/ or https://www.whatsongoldcoast.au/movies.#GCMoviesUnderTheStars
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From now until 26 Dec 2027
Carrara Markets Car Boot Sale
Carrara Markets is famous for its Sunday morning Car Boot Sale!If you love a second-hand bargain then you're sure to find it amongst the boots full of preloved fashion, books, toys, homewares, tools, bibs and bobs!If you have a garage full of stuff you don't know what to do with, then you can make some cash from your trash by becoming a car boot seller! Seller sites are $50. No bookings required. Just turn up on the day with your car loaded up & start selling!Carrara Markets Car Boot Sale is open every Sunday morning 7am to 10am in the car park.
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From now until 06 Feb 2028
HOTA Farmers and Artisan Market
The HOTA Markets are one of the Gold Coast's most vibrant community markets, held every Sunday morning, in the iconic HOTA precinct from 6am-11.30am.Like the Gold Coast itself, we're a celebration of independence and lifestyle! They are passionate about local farmers, makers, bakers and growers, we like knowing where our goods come from, and we love supporting new and emerging small businesses. The markets are part of the fabric of the Gold Coast, they're proud to support and foster local artists and live music, as well as supporting social causes representing the local community.Each Sunday HOTA comes alive with in-season farm-fresh produce, delicious artisan foods, boutique fashion and handcrafted wears. All nestled against the backdrop of Evendale Lake and the stunning HOTA landscape.
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24 Oct 2026 - 30 Jan 2027
HOTA Collects: Alchemy
The concept of alchemy is rich with allegory and metaphor, offering a framework for artists working across photography, ceramics, sculpture and painting. Alchemy brings together works from the HOTA Collection that engage with materiality, process, decay and transformation. From cameraless photography processes, to sculpture, ceramic and drawings made with wind and fire, this exhibition explores the philosophical and physical ways contemporary artists employ alchemical processes in their practice. Alchemy also features two light-based sculptures by Australian artist Lindy Lee, recently acquired for the HOTA Collection to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the HOTA Gallery.Artists include Daniel Boyd, Vincent Brown, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Rose Farrell & George Parkin, Leah King-Smith, Jae Hoon Lee, Lindy Lee, eX de Medici, David Oswald, Susan Purdy, Cameron Robbins, Justine Varga and John Wolseley.
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24 Oct 2026
The Zine Room Exhibition
The Zine Room will showcase the diversity of zine production on the Gold Coast and beyond. Led by the Editor of the zine U4IA, Fraser Demek and co-curator Brian Murray. Consistent themes of 'create, connect, collaborate and creative freedom and expression underlie the content of The Zine Room exhibition. Zines from private collections include; Breakbone, U4IA, Konnect, Fang It, Frocket, Gold Tooth, Bad News, Tsunami, Magazine and other independent imprints.
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28 Oct 2026 - 31 Oct 2026
Asia Pacific Screen Awards & Forum 2026
Join us on the Gold Coast from 28–30 October 2026 for the Asia Pacific Screen Awards & Forum, three days celebrating the films, filmmakers and screen industries of the Asia Pacific.This year, you can experience APSA your way, with tickets available for individual events and screenings, Forum day passes, or the complete three-day program with a Full Delegate Pass.The program begins on Wednesday 28 October with the Asia Pacific Screen Forum, followed by a special Opening Night screening of the Australian classic Burke & Wills at Event Cinemas Pacific Fair. Australian screen legend and APSA Academy President Jack Thompson AM will be there to introduce the film before joining audiences for a special on-stage conversation reflecting on the production and his remarkable career.TO PURCHASE OPENING NIGHT TICKETS TO THE SCREENING OF BURKE & WILLS WITH JACK THOMPSON AM CLICK HERE.Across Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, the 8th Asia Pacific Screen Forum will bring filmmakers, producers and screen industry professionals together for conversations, ideas and insights from across the region. On Thursday, Reel Connections offers another chance to meet and connect with filmmakers and industry guests in a more relaxed setting.The three days culminate on Friday 30 October with the 19th Asia Pacific Screen Awards Ceremony at The Star Gold Coast, where nominated filmmakers and guests from across the region will come together to celebrate the year’s outstanding films, performances and creative achievements.Individual APSA screenings will also be available to book throughout the program.Whether you’re joining us for a single screening, spending a day at the Forum or coming along for the full APSA experience, choose your ticket and secure your place at APSA 2026.
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31 Oct 2026
KISSperience
KISSperience is Australia's hottest KISS tribute show, delivering an explosive celebration of the legendary rock band like no other. Based on the Gold Coast – the party capital of the country – this home-grown Queensland powerhouse is bringing a spine-tingling Rock'n'Roll Halloween party to the stage.With the largest stage show and production of any tribute band in the land, KISSperience goes all-in: authentic costumes, face paint, vintage instruments, and a stage setup complete with a giant flashing KISS logo, drum riser, and stairs. Add in the thrills and chills of Halloween night, and you've got the ultimate mash-up of music, mayhem, and monsters.Every KISSperience show is a full-throttle, larger-than-life spectacle, but this Halloween edition will be darker, louder, and wilder than ever before. Whether you're a diehard fan or a first-time visitor to the world of KISS, prepare for a frightfully good time — a night with KISSperience is one you'll never forget.
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31 Oct 2026
Bingo Loco at The Star Gold Coast
The Greatest Bingo Show on Earth - Halloween Edition!Strap yourselves in because the greatest bingo show on Earth is coming back to The Star Gold Coast for a Halloween special like no other! 🎃Gear up for a night of bingo complete with bass rumbling rave rounds, petrifying lip-sync battles, dance-offs, confetti cannons and spine-chilling special effects, comedian MCs, dancers, crazy theatrics, and of course thrilling prizes. Costumes are encouraged, shenanigans are mandatory!Previous prizes have included a holiday to Bali, a bathtub, a car, a 3m teddy bear, a bag of rubbish, a lawnmower, and even a boat!For more information please visit: www.bingoloco.com.auPlease note: This show contains content, entertainment and humour that some guests may find offensive, and therefore may not be suitable for all audiences.Follow along on IG @thestargoldcoastT&CsSubject to availability, change and cancellation. Must be 18 years or over to attend. *Price includes Eventbrite booking fees. Full payment will be processed at time of booking. Not available in conjunction with any other offers or discounts. No further discounts apply. The Star Club Member discounts do not apply. No refunds will be provided for booking cancellations or no-shows. Please note once booking payments are made, we are unable to offer any refunds. If a person under your booking is unable to attend the event, you can allocate the ticket to another person.By attending this event you consent to potentially being in the background of content on social media.If The Star postpones the event for any reason, all tickets will be credited to future events. If you are unable to attend the new date, a full refund will be honoured. The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol.
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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.