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Calendar Celebrations Sorted
entertainment
- Free Event
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From now until 12 Jul 2026
Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart
Aka Sorbie: Saltwater HeartKnown to family as Aka (grandmother), Lisa Sorbie Martin invites you to share in her art and Torres Strait culture in an immersive new Children’s Gallery exhibition. Memories and moments from Aka Sorbie’s childhood have been brought to life and infused with the vibrant colours and patterns of her art practice. Connect to Aka Sorbie’s saltwater heart as you play and learn about the reef, play cubby in the island hut, relax at the story tree, discover patterns in nature and art, and get creative at Aka’s table. This is a place to bring freshwater and saltwater people together to share stories, learn about First Nations culture and celebrate the natural environment. "It's very important, it's part of our culture that we teach our young ones; it's our way of life.” – Aka (Lisa Sorbie Martin) Presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts Proudly supported by Experience Gold Coast
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From now until 30 May 2026
Sessions Surf Festival
The Sessions Surf Festival invites the Gold Coast community together for a week of entertainment and inspiration. The goal is to create a meaningful culture around films, art, music, and surf. The Sessions Surf Festival will be an all-ages, week long festival hosted at multiple locations throughout the Gold Coast. The community will enjoy film screenings, live music, panel conversations, art exhibits, surf contests and more with world-class surfers and top-tier creatives.
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17 Jul 2026 - 29 May 2026
Very Short Film Festival - Gold Coast
The Very Short Film Festival is a national film festival showcasing bold short films from emerging Australian filmmakers, with all films under five minutes.The Gold Coast screening presents a curated selection of Australian short films spanning comedy, drama, documentary and experimental work. The program brings together diverse storytelling voices and styles, offering audiences the opportunity to experience contemporary short filmmaking on the big screen.Each screening features a mix of standout films from the 2026 program, with stories designed to engage, entertain and spark conversation.Part of the festival's national tour, the Gold Coast event offers a unique chance to discover new Australian filmmaking talent in a cinema setting.
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29 May 2026 - 30 Jul 2026
Bron Lewis: Chaos
Bron Lewis: ChaosBron Lewis’ life is complete and utter chaos, just ask her dog trainer. She has three kids - an emotional tweenager, a four-year old stalker and a middle one, and just when things couldn’t get any harder, she bought a puppy. A glutton for punishment, Bron has welcomed the flourishing of her comedy career, which means she has a million plates in the air and even more smashed on the ground around her feet. Bron, an ex-high-school teacher, wears the battle scars of an undervalued profession and is still reeling from the initial shock of motherhood 12 years ago. Come bask in her humiliating attempts at juggle-parenting, teaching, a career change and flailing mental health, because as the saying goes, ‘if we can’t laugh about it, we’ll burn the city to the ground’. If you’ve ever thought ‘If one thing goes wrong, we’re all dead meat’ or ‘What the hell was I thinking?’ then this is the comedy show for you!
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30 May 2026 - 28 Nov 2026
Backstage with the Brewmaster
A brewery tour like no other! Whether you're fascinated by the technicalities of brewing great beer or simply interested and curious to learn more about how their beer is made (and why), this experience is for you.Strictly limited to a maximum of 18 guests. Includes 90 minutes of exclusive access to Brewmaster Brennan – exploring, sampling, Q&A'ing and all round enjoying behind the scenes insights, along with plenty of beer and food plus more special gifts to take away. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in, Backstage Experience starts promptly.
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31 May 2026 (Monthly)
SUNDAZE ~ Sunday Morning Ecstatic Dance
Wake up and dance with fresh beats for brunch.Join our new Sunday Morning Dance for the community to come together, breathe, and groove.... by the sea.Connect with kindred spirits, find your flow, and prime your energy for the week ahead.Ecstatic Dance is a freestyle community dancefloor where we come together without words, phones or shoes and just dance deep... shaking loose and letting go to great music in a safe inclusive and sacred space with a live dj and an amazing soundsystem.You can expect a variety of juicy beats woven together by our resident DJ Peach. From soft and slow to hard and fast, sexy bass beats to classic remixes to sound healing vibes at the very end... the dance journey is a full spectrum soul experience for the body mind and spirit.We serve peach ice tea after dance and there's a chance to chill & connect for those who wish.When: Last Sunday of Every Month 10am-12pmWhere: Tom Atkin Hall, TugunWhat to know: no words, no shoes, no phones, no nonsense. We have aircon to keep us cool!What to bring: Drink bottle, a small towel if you sweat. Wear clothes you can move in.All welcome - Don't miss the magic!Grab your friends, book your tickets, see you on the dancefloor xo
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03 Jun 2026 - 07 Jun 2026
Cooly Rocks On
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the iconic motors, music, and lifestyle of yesteryear when Cooly Rocks On returns 3-7 June 2026!Renowned as one of Australia's best Show 'N' Shine displays, Coolangatta will be transported back in time as the streets are lined with over 900 cars, hot rods, kustom classics, lowbrow art, and more — all lining the vibrant streets of Coolangatta in a dazzling tribute to automotive culture.When it comes to music, prepare to be swept away by some of the finest rock 'n' roll, swing, rockabilly, and tribute acts from across the globe. Cooly Rocks On holds the distinguished honour of being one of only three Australian festivals to host an official preliminary round of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, where the winner earns a coveted spot at Elvis Week in Memphis, USA.Festival favourites don't stop there: the iconic Cooly Rocks On Pin-up Pageant is a celebration of vintage glamour and charm, while the Nostalgia Markets along the Coolangatta beachfront offer a treasure trove of retro goods, memorabilia, and collectibles.With a captivating mix of free and ticketed entertainment spanning five unforgettable days, Cooly Rocks On 2026 promises to be an exhilarating journey back in time — and they can't wait to relive the magic with you in Coolangatta!
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05 Jun 2026
Anisa Nandaula: No Small Talk
Anisa Nandaula: No Small TalkAnisa Nandaula (Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Gen) dives headfirst into the chaos of her life—nearly getting into a fight, feuding with her next-door neighbour, and surviving her old workplace drama. Then, after a decade away, she returns to Africa and brings back a suitcase full of hilarious, unforgettable stories. No filters, no small talk—just big laughs. Nominee Best Newcomer 2025 Melbourne Comedy Festival "Anisa is a must-see!" Chelsea Handler "Put her in front of any crowd and she’d be at home…She’s one to watch, for sure." Chortle "She’s unstoppable, playing out scenarios with a bombastic side-eye and confident strut. If you’re seeking a comedic act that will keep you at ease, Nandaula should be your pick." The Age
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11 Jun 2026 - 12 Jun 2026
KOAL
KOALFresh off a hit run at Theatre Works in Melbourne and PhysFestNYC in New York City, KOAL is a one-woman climate-catastrophe-clown-show for the end of the world. As wildfires tear through Australia, a baby koala, a coal miner and an Indigenous girl desperately strive to hold onto their homes before all burns and turns to ash. KOAL is an original interactive solo-show, performed by Jacinta Yelland (RealTV, Elbow Room, Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre, Pig Iron Theatre Company, David Gordon) and directed by Trey Lyford (rainpan 43, The Civilians), that immerses the audience in the middle of the 2019 Australian bushfires. The show follows two eyewitnesses to this climate catastrophe; Koal, a baby koala recovering at a wildlife sanctuary after being saved from a nearby wildfire, and Stevo, a career coal miner trapped in a collapsed mine hundreds of metres underground. Woven throughout is the story of Minah, an Indigenous girl who was removed from her home and interned by her government during WWII. Using documentary theatre, clown, and audience interaction, KOAL takes the audience from laughter to tears as it explores what is lost when your home is erased.
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13 Jun 2026
Ray O'Leary: I Can See O'Leary Now the Ray has Gone
Ray O'Leary: I Can See O'Leary Now the Ray has GoneWhen Ray O’Leary (Taskmaster NZ, Have You Been Paying Attention?, Best Show nominee Melbourne Comedy Festival) was born, winter changed to spring, a new star appeared in the heavens, and a double rainbow spontaneously appeared. With this auspicious start, it is no wonder he became leader of North Korea in 1994 until his untimely death in 2011. Despite this minor setback, he found time to bring you a whole new show.“A very strong comic indeed” - Chortle“A jokesmith of the highest order” - The Skinny“He twitches and moves nervously” - Starburst Magazine
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19 Jun 2026
Live at Frankie's: The Songs of Valli & Sinatra (AM Concert)
Direct from performances in over forty countries, internationally acclaimed vocalist and cabaret performer, Thomas Armstrong-Robley dazzles as frontman; possessing a rare ability to deliver both the cool crooning and quick wit of Frank Sinatra, as well as the soaring falsetto and light tenor of Frankie Valli. Accompanied by his incredible live band, the show (which is seen by an estimated 150,000 patrons each year) delivers rousing renditions of classics including My Way, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Fly Me to the Moon, December ’63, The Lady is a Tramp, Sherry, That’s Life, Walk Like a Man, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Grease, Luck Be A Lady and many more, plus salutes to The Rat Pack and The Four Seasons. With its combination of world-class vocals, heartfelt storytelling and stellar musicianship, Live at Frankie’s is a high-octane, humorous must-see celebration of Frank Sinatra and Frankie Valli that really is “too good to be true.” This event is part of the Scenic Rim Cultural Programming. Doors open for morning tea one (1) hour prior to the performance (limited seating/availability). Tickets $20; Groups 10+ $16 pp.
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20 Jun 2026
Emma Holland - The Dog Dies at the Start
Emma Holland - The Dog Dies at the StartI told my manager I wanted to write a show about dead dogs, and she said “oh god” but that’s not really my problem, it’s her job to market it. This show isn’t sad, you will leave feeling good. I promise. Thinking about asking my vet for a refund on the euthanasia just to see what happens.
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27 Jun 2026
Scenic Rim's Winter Harvest Festival
Winter Harvest Festival is a fabulous, relaxed day out for families and food lovers alike.As the signature event of Eat Local Month, this authentic food festival proudly showcases the best of the Scenic Rim's culinary offerings. It's an invitation to literally eat and drink your way around the region, connect with local producers and watch cooking demonstrations led by world-renowned chefs all in one flavour-filled day!So prepare to delight your palate with an endless selection of tasting plates, discover new wines, and stock up on fresh produce while immersing yourself in the excitement of the Tractor Pulling Competition, where teams compete against a 10-tonne tractor. Which team will clock the fastest time and win the prize?Pack your empty eskies, round up the kids, and gather your friends for the ultimate family-friendly farm gate event and an absolute overload of country hospitality!Visit website for more information.
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From now until 30 Sep 2026
Little Farmer Humpty Day - Kids Event
Come along to the camel farm for the school holidays, Little Farmer Humpty Day, and don't forget to dress like a farmer!Your children won’t forget this informative experience at Summer Land Camels as they are taken on a farm tour and introduced to the friendly camels. The 30 minute Kids farm tour includes patting and cuddling the camels, kids' activities and miniature goats.Make sure you bring your camera to get the perfect shot with your favourite camel! Please wear closed in shoes and a smile!While you are here, you can feed the friendly camels, shop around in the Skincare and Souvenir Shop, visit the Homestead Cafe for a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunch and try their famous Camelcino. All their dairy products are also available for purchase straight from the farm, so bring an esky or a cooler bag.
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04 Jul 2026
Gold Coast Whale and Ocean Festival
Gold Coast Whale and Ocean Festival 2026 - register by donating to win one of our cool prices. The prices include family whale watch pass with SWC and much more. Names will be drawn at the event. www.goldcoastwhalefest.com.auThe Gold Coast's Whale Festival will be held on Saturday 4th July 2026 at Justins Park, Burleigh Heads. Organised by Humpbacks and Highrises (HHR), a local NGO, the festival aims to increase awareness in the local community for our oceans and the magnificent whales that visit the Gold Coast every year.Since 2011 Humpbacks and High Rises have been running Queensland's largest marine mammal monitoring program dedicated to the protection and research of marine mammals. Our mission is to ensure present and future generations of the community have access to enjoy, appreciate and care for whales and dolphins through research, rescue and education.This free event is an opportunity for the public to learn more about our local marine life from leading researchers on the sharks, turtles, whales, dolphins and dugongs. There will be stalls and exhibits from various organisations which are also spearheading many environmental actions and activities to give everyone a chance to be the change they want to see. Other exhibitors will showcase products that will lessen our impact on the environment and assist in becoming waste-free. Live musicians from local artists will showcase their talent throughout the day.
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05 Jul 2026
Gold Coast Whale & Ocean Festival 2026
The Gold Coast's Whale & Ocean Festival is a celebration of the precious ocean that is at the heart of the Gold Coast. It will be held at Justins Park, Burleigh Heads. Organised by Humpbacks and Highrises (HHR), a local NGO, the festival aims to increase awareness in the local community for our oceans and the magnificent whales that visit the Gold Coast every year.Since 2011 Humpbacks and High Rises have been running Queensland's largest marine mammal monitoring program dedicated to the protection and research of marine mammals. Our mission is to ensure present and future generations of the community have access to enjoy, appreciate and care for whales and dolphins through research, rescue and education.Join them for this free event, where you can delve into the fascinating world of local marine life through insights from leading researchers on sharks, turtles, whales, dolphins, and dugongs. Explore a variety of stalls and exhibits from organizations at the forefront of environmental conservation, offering you the chance to engage in impactful actions and activities. Discover innovative products from other exhibitors that aim to reduce our environmental footprint and help us move towards a waste-free futureLive musicians from local artists will showcase their talent throughout the day and there will be activities for the whole family!
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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.