Work is Play
You're growing when you're learning. You're growing even more when there's fun to be had. Join a local class or workshop, meet new friends, enjoy a laugh or two and learn something new.
classes & workshops
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From now until 24 Mar 2027
Storyfest Gold Coast
Do you have a passion for literature?Would you like to see some of the most highly acclaimed authors in the world? At Somerset Storyfest you can immerse yourself in literature!It all kicks off with the Prologue Party - fun for the whole family - and for the adults, come along to either the Literary Lunch on the Tuesday or alternatively, The Craig Bassingthwaighte Long Table, held as the closing event for the Festival on the Wednesday evening.Tickets will be available for purchase online four weeks before the commencement of Storyfest Gold Coast. Many sessions have limited numbers, so book early to avoid disappointment.
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From now until 20 Sep 2026
Gold Coast Eisteddfod
South East Queensland is home of the Gold Coast Eisteddfod which is the largest youth festival of performing arts in Australia.It is not only a platform for launching the careers of international performers, but also a place where enduring memories are created, future careers are fostered and the stars of tomorrow are developed.Gold Coast Eisteddfod has sections in all genres of Music, Dance & Drama including Dance Solos, Young People with Disability, Strings, Wind & Brass, String Orchestras, Small Ensembles, Dance Groups, Choral, Bands, Stage Bands, School Dance Groups, Piano, Vocal & Speech & Drama.Held from July to September each year at various venues across the Gold Coast.
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From now until 11 Dec 2026
Art Explorers
Art ExplorersJoin us for Art Explorers – HOTA Gallery tours for little people with big imaginations. These playful sessions invite children and their parents/carers to connect with art through movement and storytelling, encouraging curiosity, creativity and fun! This program is recommended for children aged 2-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult carer and cannot be left unsupervised at any time. Thank you for your understanding.
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12 Sep 2026 - 13 Sep 2026
Kidchella
Good vibes. Little humans. One big weekend!The Gold Coast's happiest festival is back, and it's bringing the beats, the glitter and all the good vibes.Kidchella returns this September with two jam-packed days of free family fun.For one epic weekend, Surfers Paradise transforms into the ultimate beachside festival for kids.Little festival-goers can dance to live DJ beats, spin high above the beach on the Ferris wheel, bust a move in the silent disco, show off their skills with street-style hoops, unleash their creativity in the Art Studio, hit the skate zone and add a little sparkle at the Glam Bar.Gather your crew, throw on your brightest festival outfit and get ready to dance, play and make memories together.Kidchella is produced by City of Gold Coast.For the latest information, search Kidchella 2026 on Facebook.
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14 Sep 2026 - 26 Sep 2026
Kids Take Over Festival 2026
You're invited into a world of imagination where things are wonderfully strange and delightfully unexpected.Dive into a vibrant program of performances, free daily activities, immersive installations, and hands-on workshops. With something new to discover every day, one visit is never enough… well, not for a true adventurer!This is your chance to imagine, explore, and play.
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From now until 19 Sep 2026 (Annual)
Sky Racing Pink Ribbon Raceday
Australia's largest community fundraiser for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) returns to the Gold Coast Turf Club for its 19th year. The Sky Racing Pink Ribbon Raceday features the Zarraffa's Coffee Pink Ribbon Cup, a day where racing, community and a meaningful cause come together.Dress in pink and enjoy an unforgettable day trackside, filled with exciting racing, live entertainment and fundraising activities, all while helping support the National Breast Cancer Foundation's vital breast cancer research.Gather friends and family and be part of one of the Gold Coast's most cherished race days as the community races to make a difference.
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25 Sep 2026 - 11 Dec 2026
Gold Coast Hinterland Nature Adventures for Kids (School Holidays)
Birdwings Forest School offers Kids Nature Adventures in the Gold Coast Hinterland, providing visiting families with a unique, nature-based day camp experience for children aged 5–12 years. Set across bushland, rainforest, creeks, and open spaces, the program invites participants to spend the day exploring, creating, and connecting with nature.Guided by experienced nature mentors and forest school leaders, participants engage in bushcrafts, handcrafts, creek play, and campfire cooking within a natural adventure playground. With no gear required, this fully facilitated experience offers a meaningful alternative to theme parks and typical holiday activities.Located in Guanaba, near Mt Tamborine, it's ideal for families visiting the Gold Coast. While children are immersed in nature, parents can enjoy exploring the surrounding hinterland. Bookings are essential for this small-group experience.
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From now until 11 Oct 2026
Gold Coast Open House
Explore your city! The Gold Coast Architecture Festival is a celebration of the urban landscape, highlighting the extraordinary local buildings, places and spaces that shape the city and lifestyle.With a program of architect-led building tours, self-guided explorations, and insightful panel discussions, you’ll have the chance to delve deep into the design stories behind some of the Gold Coast’s most iconic landmarks.Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a curious local, or someone who loves discovering hidden gems, Gold Coast Open House offers a fresh perspective on the city. From sleek modern towers to heritage gems, beachfront spaces to cultural precincts, there’s something for everyone.Mark your calendars and come along on a journey of discovery and be a part of the conversation about how design shapes the identity of this unique city.
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03 Nov 2026
Melbourne Cup at Garden Kitchen & Bar (Booths)
INCLUSIONSTwo premium shared plattersThree-hour beverage packageLive entertainmentFashions off the FieldMC Carla ToomaWaited service for duration of eventPRICE$2,200 per booth (Max 15 guests)*Includes Eventbrite booking feesWHEN11:30am - 2:30pmTerms & conditionsSubject to availability, change or cancellation. Dietary options will be available on prior request, however additional dietaries will not be able to be accommodated on the day without prior notice. Beverage selection subject to availability and may change without notice. The Star Club Member discounts do not apply. Casino Dollars cannot be used for this event. Booking cancellations must be made at least 7 days prior to the event (by 12.00pm on Tuesday, 27th October 2026). No refund will be provided to no-shows or cancellations made within 7 days prior to the event. Booking cancellations made after the event is sold out will not be refunded. The Star practices the responsible service of alcohol.SHARED PLATTERSPlatter 1Chilled prawn rolls, King prawn remoulade, cos lettuce, Marie RoseCharcuterie platterHouse-made focaccia, smoked hummusPlatter 2Smashed burger slider, special sauce, dill pickle, cheeseLamb koftas, chimichurri , labnaTHREE-HOUR BEVERAGE PACKAGESPARKLINGDomaine Chandon | Yarra Valley, VICWHITE WINEAquilani Pinot Grigio | Friuli-Venezia, ItalyCloud St Chardonnay | Multi Regional, VIC821 Sauvignon Blanc | Marlborough, NZROSERameau | Provence, FranceRED WINEWolf Blass ‘Blass’ Shiraz | Multi Regional, SACloud St Pinot Noir | Multi Regional, VICWynns ‘Gables’ Cabernet Sauvignon | Coonawarra SABEERSHahn Super DryXXXX GoldStone and Wood Pacific AleNON-ALCOHOLICHeineken ZeroAssorted soft drinks and juices
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03 Nov 2026
Melbourne Cup at Sports Bar (Booths), The Star Gold Coast
Level up your race day experience by booking a private booth at Sports Bar, granting a front-seat view of the megascreen.INCLUSIONSPrivate booth for up to 10 guests (min 5 guests)Three-hour booth hire$700 food & beverage tabBranded merchFriendly wait service for the duration of your booth hireLive & loud, surround soundState of the art TAB facilitiesPlease note: This is an 18+ event and this venue is located on our Main Gaming Floor.WHENTuesday, 3 November 2026Booth from 12:00pm - 3:00pmWHERESports Bar | Casino Level, The Star Gold CoastPRICE$1,200.00 per booth (fits up to 10 guests)Includes Eventbrite booking feesTerms & conditionsSubject to availability, change or cancellation. Dietary options will be available on prior request, however additional dietaries will not be able to be accommodated on the day without prior notice. Beverage selection subject to availability and may change without notice. The Star Club Member discounts do not apply. Casino Dollars cannot be used for this event. Booking cancellations must be made at least 7 days prior to the event (by 12.00pm on Tuesday, 27th October 2026). No refund will be provided to no-shows or cancellations made within 7 days prior to the event. Booking cancellations made after the event is sold out will not be refunded. 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.