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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
- Free Event
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15 Jul 2025 - 15 Oct 2025
Songcraft Studio
Songcraft StudioExperience a special season of the Songcraft Studio workshops with Gold Coast's HaydenGoSeek (aka Hayden Andrews of Cheap Fakes). As a collaborative artist with HOTA’s Those Who Rock, Hayden brings a wealth of experience and a unique flair for crafting pop hits with undeniable appeal. Since debuting as a Triple j Unearthed artist in 2007, Hayden has earned a reputation for his versatility across genres and creative mediums. His work has been featured in national campaigns (Pillowtalk, Lexus, HOTA, Central Queensland Tourism), the Netflix series Umbrella Academy, the Hollywood film Move Me No Mountain and more showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend styles while continually pushing the boundaries of his artistry. Hayden’s musical journey has taken him across the globe, performing at iconic music festivals such as Big Day Out, Splendour in the Grass, and many more with his band, Cheap Fakes. A passionate mentor, Hayden is dedicated to helping the next generation of artists thrive. Through his songwriting workshops and collaborations, he guides emerging musicians in finding their unique sound and navigating their artistic journeys. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn from one of the best and take your skills—and your music—to the next level!
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19 Jul 2025 - 17 Sep 2025
Gold Coast Eisteddfod
South East Queensland is home of the Gold Coast Eisteddfod which is the largest youth competition 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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20 Jul 2025
The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever – Gold Coast
A global flashmob tribute to Kate Bush, The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever sees hundreds of people gather in red dresses across the globe on the same day to recreate her iconic 1978 video to Wuthering Heights. The Gold Coast's 2025 event returns for its 7th year — a joyful, all-ages celebration of music, movement and community, with 100 percent of profits supporting Friends with Dignity. No dance experience needed, just a red outfit and a willingness to twirl!
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From now until 23 Jul 2025 (Annual)
Movie Review Club
Movie Review ClubOn the fourth Wednesday of each month, HOTA Cinema hosts a Movie Review Club. Meet like-minded people and discuss the selected film* with a forum of academics. Simply see the listed film ahead of time and join us on the day for an interactive discussion. It’s FREE to join the club! *To view film cinema ticket prices apply. Film to be reviewed: To Be ConfirmedWhen: Wed 23 July 2025, 10.30amWhere: Panorama RoomCost: Free!
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26 Jul 2025
Dogs on the Green Christmas in July
The Gold Coast's Ultimate Dog Day Out! Join them at Broadwater Parklands for the coast's biggest celebration of all things dog! Bring your leashed pup and explore 70 plus dog-themed stalls packed with tasty treats, stylish gear, training tips, health care, rescue groups, and more! It's the paw-fect day out for dog lovers of all ages. Santa Paws arrives from the North Pole Portal for a special mid-year visit—don't miss the chance for a festive photo with your furry friend! Enjoy live music, grab a bite from food trucks and coffee carts, and let the kids explore the massive Peninsular Playground and mini beach. Enter the AUD5 charity raffle—all proceeds go to Best Friends Rescue, a local volunteer-run dog rescue doing amazing work. Free entry! Paid parking available at the Parklands or nearby Southport CBD. Help vendors serve you faster—cash preferred, no surcharges. Don't miss this tail-wagging celebration—it's the must-attend dog event of the year!
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26 Jul 2025
Festival of Small Halls Winter Tour 2025: Springbrook
Festival of Small Halls has announced that Champagne Weather and Charm of Finches will feature on their upcoming Winter Tour 2025:Coastal Queensland. Produced by Woodfordia Inc, veteran producers of Woodford Folk Festival, this marks the 45th tour of regional, remote and rural communities with high - quality, visionary music. The tour weaves along the coastline of Woodfordia Inc's home state, from rainforest villages to seaside towns and island escapes, each show is the pilot of the next, threading warmth and magic between. Festival of Small Halls Winter Tour 2025 starts on the 2nd July in Cooktown, before winding down the coast finishing up in the lovely community on Macleay Island.
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30 Jul 2025
Sneeky Mid-Weeky: Dough It Like a Pro
Sneeky Mid-Weeky: Dough It Like a ProJoin us for a pizza-making masterclass. Craft your own pizza with expert guidance and enjoy it on the terrace with a cocktail of your own design.
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31 Jul 2025
Jeff Koons - In Conversation with Alison Kubler
Jeff Koons - In Conversation with Alison KublerDive deep into the creative waters with Jeff Koons on the opening night of BLEACH* Festival. Join Vault Editor-in-Chief Alison Kubler, for an evening with one of the most prominent and polarising contemporary artists of our time. Renowned for his big, bold, provocative sculptures and unorthodox approach in the art world, Jeff has a lot to say when it comes to creativity and the power of art. Presented in partnership with the National Gallery of Australia and American Friends of the National Gallery.
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01 Aug 2025
Bri Lee In Conversation with Alison Kubler
Bri Lee In Conversation with Alison KublerJoin us for an intimate and thought-provoking conversation between acclaimed author Bri Lee and art curator and Vault magazine editor Alison Kubler, as they explore the intersection of art, storytelling, and societal change. Bri and Alison will discuss how contemporary art, literature, and culture influence our understanding of power, justice, and identity. Drawing from their own experiences and work, they’ll delve into how storytelling can be a powerful tool for social transformation. From Bri’s bestselling works like Eggshell Skull to Alison’s innovative art curation, this conversation will offer a unique look at how art and storytelling can challenge perceptions, provoke thought, and spark meaningful change. Don’t miss this inspiring dialogue between two leading voices at the forefront of contemporary culture. Expect rich discussion, candid insights, and the chance to engage in a conversation that celebrates the transformative power of art and storytelling. Come prepared for a thought-provoking evening with two of Australia’s most insightful voices in literature and the arts. If Writers Revealed exhibition ticket is bought in conjunction with talk ticket, the exhibition ticket is valid for the day of the talk. Visitors are advised to see the exhibition before the talk to allow adequate time for viewing. Gallery hours are 10am-4pm.
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02 Aug 2025
Wild Earth Border Bolt Running Festival
Bouncing out of the blocks on debut in 2022, the Border Bolt is back and takes you on back onto the bumpy but beautiful border trails in Currumbin Valley. With no less than 4 race distances to choose from; ranging from 6km & 13km, through to the 22km and 31km events form Round 2 in our Triple Crown Trail Series. A great stand-alone run or ideal prep for Coastal High; just 4 weeks later. The Border Bolt showcases the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland, yet starts and finishes by our world-famous beaches!
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From now until 10 Dec 2025
Distracted
ADHD Expert Panel Discussions and Q&A'sJoin us on the 1st Wednesday of each month at HOTA to mingle with our ADHD community. Listen to ADHD topics presented by industry experts along with time for Q&A's. Bring your coach, teacher, friend, boss, relative, partner or just yourselves. We are always implementing ways to make our events neurodiversity and sensory-friendly.
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From now until 07 Aug 2025
Drawing for Life
Drawing for LifeJoin us for Drawing for Life – a relaxed space to unwind and explore your creativity. Each Drawing for Life session sees leading artists and performers curate poses, subjects and performances for you to draw. In July and August, we’re taking inspiration from the exhibition Enjoy this Trip - The Art of Music Posters, a National Gallery of Australia Touring Exhibition, open Sat 7 Jun - Sun 17 Aug at HOTA Gallery. Using projected patterns on a live model, we’ll explore the effect of shape, pattern and colour on the model’s poses and the mood of the scene. Our Artist Educators will guide you in short drawing warm-ups, followed by long and sustained poses to investigate details and various drawing materials. All abilities are welcome to enjoy this unique and artful experience. Ticket includes one complimentary beverage from a selected drinks menu, with food and drinks available to purchase throughout the session. All drawing materials are provided. Doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm event start.
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From now until 17 Aug 2025
Pacific Airshow® Gold Coast
Pacific Airshow® Gold Coast: Bigger, Faster, Louder and on sale now! Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is back 15–17 August 2025 and they're ready to go bigger, faster and louder than ever before, with three days of unbelievable aerial and on-sand entertainment. For the best views, electrifying live commentary, performer autograph sessions and an atmosphere you'll find hard to beat, the only place to be is on the inside. You'll be right in the hub of the action as world-class aviators tear through the skies during over four hours of heart-pounding action. In addition to the world-class airshow, you can access Performer Signing Sessions to meet your heroes, get engaged in the new NXTGN STEM LAB, grab some delicious food and drink options from the awesome vendors, and let the kids loose in the PA Kids Zone.
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15 Aug 2025 - 16 Aug 2026
2026 Pacific Airshow® Gold Coast
Pacific Airshow® Gold Coast: Bigger, Faster, Louder and on sale now! Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is back and they're ready to go bigger, faster and louder than ever before, with three days of unbelievable aerial and on-sand entertainment. For the best views, electrifying live commentary, performer autograph sessions and an atmosphere you'll find hard to beat, the only place to be is on the inside. You'll be right in the hub of the action as world-class aviators tear through the skies during over four hours of heart-pounding action. In addition to the world-class airshow, you can access Performer Signing Sessions to meet your heroes, get engaged in the new STEM area, grab some delicious food and drink options from the awesome vendors, and let the kids loose in the PA Kids Zone.
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21 Aug 2025 (Monthly)
Ballun Gawrehma: River Stories
Ballun Gawrehma: River StoriesJoin local Kombumerri man Lann Levinge—a multi-talented artist who is a singer, songwriter, producer, director, and creative designer—for a unique journey into the heart of Kombumerri culture. Lann will guide students through culturally significant sites, sharing local history passed down by elders. Begin your exploration at Wulabora, a dedicated space for sharing and gathering that celebrates Kombumerri heritage. Lann will weave together family stories, local history, the legacy of Jenny Graham and the Keeper of the Light, as well as Dreamtime tales and environmental wisdom. This sensory-rich experience includes hands-on interaction with authentic indigenous artefacts—such as clothing, weapons, and tools—alongside immersive soundscapes composed by Lann himself. As Lann expresses, "I’m passionate about discovering new ways to nurture and inspire a new generation of language and cultural warriors. My goal is to raise awareness and foster connections with indigenous culture, particularly the Kombumerri ways and the Yugambeh Language, through visual art, music, and dance." Don’t miss this opportunity for your students to engage deeply with local indigenous culture. Contact education@hota.com.au to arrange your education perspectives experience. This tour is open to school groups only.
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24 Aug 2025
Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival
Come celebrate Krishna's birthday! The auspicious advent of Sri Krishna is a worldwide time of joyous celebrations. They invite you to join them for an immersive experience of inspiring Vedic stories, uplifiting kirtan and peaceful meditations, along with a hands on bathing ceremony (abishekam), and of course, a delicious Indian feast. Enjoy a devotional festival like no other as we celebrate the universally renowned jewel of yoga wisdom and the embodiment of spiritual love – The Supreme Soul, Sri Krishna. Bring your friends and family, and we can't wait to see you there! Please book via Humanitix so we can make sure there's plenty of food.
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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.