.png?h=24&iar=0&w=25&hash=8236A8D28F595BEA660CD6771CCD875E){kind=icon}
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
-
18 Apr 2026 - 25 Jul 2026
This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art
This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary ArtImage Credit: Peng Hung-Chih 彭弘智, The Deluge – Noah’s Ark 2014, 3D printed ABS plastic. White Rabbit Collection, Sydney. Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program by Judith NeilsonThis 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 40 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.
-
21 May 2026
Freelance Filmm4kers
Freelance Filmm4kers is an exciting event taking place at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the stunning Gold Coast of Australia. Scheduled for May 21, 2026, this gathering is designed for aspiring and established filmmakers alike, providing a platform to connect, collaborate, and share insights within the dynamic film industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, participate in workshops, and showcase their creative works. This event promises to inspire and empower freelance filmmakers to elevate their craft and network with peers in a vibrant and supportive environment.
-
21 May 2026 - 24 May 2026
2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Welcome to Australia's must-see boating blockbuster!The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is the greatest show afloat! The Southern Hemisphere's marquee marine event with a superstar lineup of more than 300 exhibitors across everything from the latest marine gadgets and must-have technology to a massive display of trailer boats, sail boats, motor yachts and superyachts plus a raft of exciting new product launches.The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show promises plenty of showstopping moments from exclusive VIP experiences in The Lagoon Beach Club to boatloads of activities, including live entertainment stages, fishing demonstrations, street performers and a fun-filled kids activities. Get along to the biggest and best boating lifestyle show with over 820 boats and thousands of marine products.Don't miss this full-on, four-day, action-packed event of all things aquatic.
-
From now until 23 May 2026
Lagoon Beach Club
The Lagoon Beach Club brings luxury, entertainment, and indulgence to the heart of SCIBS. Enjoy all-day grazing by InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, premium beverages, live entertainment, and full Show access. It's your exclusive social hub at the Boat Show!Lagoon Beach Club - Brunch (Thurs-Sat) 9:30am–12:00pmEase into the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show at the Lagoon Beach Club Bottomless Brunch session with an exclusive, vibrant experience overlooking the water.Enjoy roaming canapés, barista coffee, bottomless mimosas, signature bloody mary fountain by Mr. Consistent, Rosé by Whispering Angel, the return of the iconic Veuve Clicquot Sun Club, acoustic live performers and lagoon and poolside seating.All set within a relaxed, social setting overlooking the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove sparkling pool - perfect for starting your day at the Show.Lagoon Beach Club - Beats & Bites (Thurs-Sat) 12:30pm - 4:30pmAdd some energy to your afternoon at SCIBS with a Lagoon Beach Club Beats & Bites session!Expect a curated premium food offering, champagne and rosé activations, interactive DJs and feature entertainment, lagoon and poolside seating - all within a relaxed, social setting ideal for networking.With sun-soaked views, lively tunes, and plenty of space to relax or dance, it's the ultimate laid-back SCIBS session for friends, festival-goers, corporate groups and VIPs alike.
-
05 Jun 2026 - 06 Jun 2026
Gold Coast Disability Expo
The Gold Coast Disability Expo brings together a wide range of product and service providers to help people with disability live their best lives. Meet with a range of providers including government and advocacy, aids and equipment, financial and legal services, education, training and employment providers, social and leisure options, transport and vehicles, health and medical products and services, allied health professionals and support services, all under one roof in an accessible and inclusive environment.The expo will also feature a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts, and all-ability adult and children's entertainment.Expo accessible features: Auslan Interpreters, live captioning at the stage, quiet time Saturday morning 9am-10am, service animal friendly with watering station, accessible venue facilities, drop off zone and accessible parking.Jump the entry queues by registering your attendance for the free Gold Coast Disability Expo on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th June 2026 at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre. Get organised with the Expo Guide that will give you the lowdown on parking, exhibitors, floor plan, and the stage and entertainment schedule
-
19 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026
FoodTech Qld
Status of this event could not be verified by our team. Please check with the organizer before visiting. The FoodTech Qld event, hosted at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, is an innovative platform that gathers the latest solutions in food manufacturing and technology. Drawing an audience from Australia, China, and Egypt, this event is designed for food manufacturing and production professionals, offering them a chance to explore cutting-edge technologies and strategies to enhance their operations. With an expected visitor count of over 3,000, FoodTech Qld serves as a hub for networking, knowledge sharing, and business growth, making it a key event for industry stakeholders.The two-day exhibition will feature leading suppliers in various sectors including food science, packaging machinery, and processing equipment. Attendees can participate in a comprehensive conference program that includes keynote sessions, panel discussions, and roundtables led by industry experts. These sessions are tailored to provide actionable insights that empower food manufacturers to tackle industry challenges effectively. The event emphasizes the importance of safety and innovation in food production, encouraging businesses to invest in high-performing processing equipment and sustainable packaging options. As the demand for advanced plant equipment rises, the focus remains on enhancing operational efficiency, sustainability, and automation, which are crucial in meeting evolving consumer expectations for quality and consistency. Additionally, the Mosca Networking Lounge and vibrant Networking Parties offer exceptional opportunities for attendees to forge valuable relationships, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Gold Coast. Overall, FoodTech Qld promises to be an essential gathering for those involved in the food manufacturing industry, where technology and innovation meet to drive future growth.
-
From now until 28 Jun 2026
The Doyles Art Award
Welcome to the Gold Coast's longest running fine art prize! The Doyles is an annual not-for-profit art award and exhibition held in Mudgeeraba.Artists compete for cash prizes (a huge $33,000 prize pool) with the winner taking home $20,000. Focusing on representational art, The Doyles Award exhibits over 300 finalist artworks from artists across Australia. Categories include Landscape, Still Life, Figurative, Animal Portraits, Juniors and All Abilities.Take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to purchase original artwork, start your collection, or add to an existing one! All adult artwork is available for purchase.Entry to the exhibition is free. Come along and enjoy a few hours discovering the inspirational talent on display.Exhibition opens 19 - 28 June. Firth Park Community Centre, Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba.
-
21 Jun 2026
Fashion Thrift Society Gold Coast
Fashion Thrift Society (FTS) is more than just a marketplace, it's a revolution. Spanning two countries and 21 cities in 2024, they're redefining fashion with community, culture, and creativity at their core. These events bring together a vibrant mix of independent sellers offering handpicked vintage and pre-loved treasures, alongside renowned local brands showcasing their unique styles.They'll spotlight local brands and artisans, offering everything from handmade clothing to one-of-a-kind items that celebrate craftsmanship and creativity. This iconic installation bar features photo booths, various hairdressing services, tarot and aura readings, a jewellery-making station, tooth gems, piercings, permanent jewellery, tattoos, henna, and more, all while vibing to all-day DJ sets from the hottest up-and-coming artists. Need a break? Check out global eats at their delicious food trucks. For details on what's available at this event, head to their social media accounts.It's not just shopping, it's a festival of style, music, and community where like-minded fashion lovers come together in an inclusive, electric atmosphere. Guests of all ages are welcome.
-
19 Jul 2026
Gold Coast's Annual Wedding Expo
Experience a fun filled day of love and wedding planning at Gold Coast Annual Wedding Expo.Located at well-known Gold Coast Turf Club. With over 100 of the most prestigious wedding and bridal suppliers and vendors.The welcoming, cute, modern vibe that the Gold Coast Wedding Expo brings is loved.Full of colour, inspiration, fun and great live entertainment – the Gold Coast Annual Wedding Expo is an event not to be missed.Free Entry and Parking plus couples receive the exclusive 'I'm Getting Married' Gift Bag.The hand-picked creative vendors include an array of florist, bridal gowns, photography, invitations, wedding cars, hens parties, makeup, fitness, men's suits, shoes, videography, reception venues, honeymoon, bridal favours, candy buffets, wedding cakes, bridal jewellery, wedding planners, marriage celebrants and wedding stylist.
-
01 Aug 2026
UNLEASHED+
UNLEASHED+Applications for this exhibition are opening soon. Register Your Interest Now artisan are proud to present their biennial exhibition UNLEASHED+ at HOTA Gallery in 2026. artisan 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—from emerging talent to established leaders. UNLEASHED is their flagship biennial exhibition, and it's been launching careers since 2004. Calling Queensland’s Emerging Makers and Designers UNLEASHED has been instrumental in shaping Queensland's craft and design landscape for over two decades. It's where early-career makers and designers get noticed by leading national curators, collectors and experts. Where local goes national. Where potential becomes realised. Since 2004, artisan's UNLEASHED has been Queensland's premier platform for launching early-career craft and design practitioners. This biennial exhibition has become more than a showcase—it's a career-defining moment that has propelled some of our state's most exciting makers and designers onto the world stage. UNLEASHED+ 2026 represents a significant evolution, with this iteration exhibited in collaboration with HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the Gold Coast. Visit artisan.com to find out more.
-
26 Sep 2026
Witches Market Gold Coast - Ostara
The Witches Market returns to the Gold Coast for its fifth year, and this year they are celebrating Ostara (Easter) as it truly falls on this date in the Southern Hemisphere.Ostara, also known as the Spring Equinox, is a Pagan festival rooted in ancient Germanic and Celtic traditions, particularly those honoring the goddess Eostre. It celebrates the arrival of spring, marked by the balance between day and night and the rebirth of nature.The festival symbolizes fertility, rebirth, and renewal, aligning with the agricultural cycle and the increasing daylightThe Witches Markets are a safe space for all to be a part of Straight, LGBTQI+, Furry, Cosplayers, Steampunk, Goth, everyone as long as they respect each other, as the Pagans say do what you want but harm none
-
21 Nov 2026
Bangarra Dance Theatre - Horizon
Bangarra Dance Theatre - HorizonThere is a place between sea and sky—a sacred realm, where the sun rises and falls and the light is new. From two of the world’s great First Nations comes a new work: Horizon. Some call it a feeling, some call it the mother spirit. It’s the place where sea meets sky, the horizon we all look to, the compass that guides us home. In Bangarra's first mainstage cross-cultural collaboration, leading Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson joins beloved Bangarra alumna Deborah Brown. Together they guide their award-winning ensemble in stories that honour their mother countries and the spirit that calls them home. Brown is a proud descendent of the Wakaid Clan and Meriam people in the Torres Strait, and has heritage from far across the seas in Scotland. She carries strength and resilience from her ancestors. Patterson, born near Lake Taupō, is a proud mokopuna (grandson) of the Ngāti Tūwharetoa tribe, and describes his sense of home as something alive, a fire inside, that he carries like a beating heart. To open the work, Saibailayg (Saibai Islander) Sani Townson expands his acclaimed work Kulka, which debuted in Dance Clan in 2023, to make a thrilling opening piece, paying homage to Sani’s grandfather and his Torres Strait heritage. Come explore the cultural forces that bind us together, across oceans and eons. Experience the resilience of the First Peoples of the Oceania region, that extends across the continent now known as Australia, the Torres Strait Islands and Aotearoa, our southern neighbour. Horizon is a double bill opening with Kulka by Bangarra alum Sani Townson, followed by the primary piece, The Light Inside, choreographed by Bangarra alum Deborah Brown and Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson.
-
20 Dec 2026
HOTA Christmas Twilight Markets
Have a HotA Jolly Christmas, it's the best time of the year!Get ready to unwrap the sparkle this festive season at the HotA Twilight Christmas Market, your one stop wonderland for Christmas cheer under the stars on Saturday, 20th December from 4PM-9PM for an evening that's merry, bright, and bursting with yuletide joy.Wander through a twinkling trail for artisans, makers, and gourmet delights, all waiting to fill your Christmas stockings (and maybe your belly too!)What to expect: Unique handcrafted gifts for everyone on your nice list Seasonal food & festive feasts to make your taste buds sing Live tunes and roving performers spreading Christmas cheer Santa meet and greet and elf-approve photos ops Kids' activations for your little helpers A magical night market atmosphere you won't forget Wrap up your Christmas shopping and make a merry memories at HotA Twilight Christmas Market!Register for your free tickets to go into the draw to WIN A $200 GOURMET HAMPER! Saturday 20th December | 4PM-9PM 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise Free entry - all elves are welcome! Parking Tips: Limited spots on site – why not make it easier? Sleight it smart by grabbing a ride-share to Chevron Island and take a magical stroll across the Green Bridge to HotA. Consider it your pre-feast walk!
Seems like you've caught us on an R&R day!
Check back again later or browse more events on the Gold Coast.
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.