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Calendar Celebrations Sorted
entertainment
- Free Event
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From now until 02 Aug 2026
Botanical Bazaar
The Botanical Bazaar is the Gold Coast's premier Gardening and Sustainability Festival. It is an interactive Gardening and Sustainable living event aimed to educate and inspire all nature enthusiasts. The event is a perfect blend of learning, shopping, and entertainment, all focused around gardening and sustainable living. Educating and inspiring nature enthusiasts of all ages. See around 90 green exhibitors and local artisans plus celebrity gardener's talks, demonstrations, botanical art, community groups and kids nature activities. Hear from industry experts on two speaker stages, including beloved ABC Gardening Australia personalities such as Sophie Thomson and Costa Georgiadis. Check out the website for the 2025 line-up. Their insights are truly inspiring, packed with innovative ideas and practical tips. Learn how to grow your own food, urban and small space gardening, and sustainable living concepts. The on-site community gardens are a highlight, with guided tours by celebrity gardeners showcasing sustainable gardening practices. But don't just listen and learn; get hands-on with 30 engaging workshops. The atmosphere was alive with local, live music under The Musical Tree and The Patch, creating a magical backdrop to the festivities. The Kid's Hub was buzzing with nature play activities and yoga sessions, and the new School Garden Competition is a hit! A relaxing weekend at the Parklands with live music with delicious food, kids hub, market stalls and more.
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From now until 24 Sep 2025
In The Heights
In The HeightsBefore Hamilton, there was In The Heights! Lin-Manuel Miranda’s (Hamilton, Moana) four-time Tony Award®-winning musical is coming exclusively to the Gold Coast – and it’s your ticket to Broadway, no passport required! Set in the heart of New York’s Washington Heights, In The Heights is a vibrant, high-energy celebration of culture, community, and chasing your dreams. This is the musical that launched Lin-Manuel Miranda’s career - fusing hip hop, salsa, Latin beats and contemporary storytelling into something bold, fresh and unforgettable. Featuring a standout cast led by Ryan Gonzalez (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) as Usnavi, Olivia Vásquez (West Side Story) as Vanessa, Richard Valdez as Piragua Guy, and Mariah Gonzalez as Nina Rosario, this production brings Washington Heights to life with energy and authenticity. Directed by Luke Joslin and choreographed by Amy Campbell - both Helpmann Award nominees for this production - In The Heights offers a rich, deeply immersive, and unforgettable experience in the heart of New York’s Washington Heights. Following acclaimed seasons on Broadway, at the Sydney Opera House, and Melbourne Comedy Theatre, In The Heights arrives at HOTA from 12 September for a strictly limited run. This is your only chance to experience it in South-East Queensland! ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ "You can't miss it!" - The Age ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ "An absolute MUST-SEE!" - Standing Innovation ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ "In The Heights is like the groovier, more flavourful and delicious sibling of Hamilton!" - Scenestr Recommended for ages 12+
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From now until 29 Oct 2025
Kundalini Yoga Class - All Levels, Every Monday
Using movement, mantra, meditation, and breathwork, Kundalini yoga helps shift energy, invigorates the body, and allows you to release anything that is no longer serving you. Expect to leave feeling brighter, energised, and ready for the week ahead. With 8,000 sets, no class is the same, and a lot of the exercises are held for only for a few minutes at a time. Kundalini is great for overactive minds, ADHD, and anyone who thinks that yoga or meditation is not for them. Give Kundalini a try! The first class cost is $11, then it's $16.50 per class after that. Cash payable on door. Bring a yoga mat or towel and water, plus any cushions/bolsters if you need them as we're on hardwood floors. Parking is available to the right of the community centre. Please note the class is in the Activity Room, to the right as you walk in. Chairs are available if you'd prefer to be off the floor.
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From now until 21 Sep 2025
SWELL Sculpture Festival
10 days of sculpture on the beach! SWELL Sculpture Festival is for everyone! Come and see for yourself! Over 60 large-scale sculptures along beautiful Currumbin Beach which is transformed into an outdoor sculpture park. Connecting people, art and place, SWELL transforms public spaces into family-friendly outdoor sculpture galleries! The annual SWELL Sculpture Festival is celebrating its 22nd year as a free and all-inclusive 10-day outdoor sculpture exhibition by the people for the people. A celebration of narratives and stories spoken through the artworks produced by local, national and international artists. You are invited to immerse at your own level and pace with the sculptures set amongst the natural landscape. Delve deeper into the unique artistic elements programmed each year by attending artist talks, twilight walks, sculptural workshops and masterclasses. SWELL connects with younger artists through the SWELL Kids Elements program. SWELL Fringe Festival includes morning beach meditations, to live music, DJs, workshops, artist panels and more - there’s always something happening. Visit Pop-Up Exhibitions that complete the SWELL compass. There is something for everyone at SWELL!
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18 Sep 2025 - 20 Sep 2025
Shore
ShoreBroadbeach’s fabulous inclusive Running Duck Theatre Ensemble, supported by Centacare, returns to HOTA for the fifth time to bring their latest sell out original story Shore. Created and devised by the ensemble. It tells the story of life on the Gold Coast in 2075. What has happened? Who lives there now and how do the Gold Coasters create a new community to share? Accompanied by superb local musicians and performed in the irresistible Running Duck style. Shore is not to be missed and is suitable of all ages. This is theatre for our time.
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20 Sep 2025 - 20 Oct 2025
Spring Bloom
The Sanctuary is blooming with colour and fun these school holidays for the first ever Spring Bloom! Wander through hundreds of flowers, discover magical fairy gardens, and enjoy shows and activities designed for the whole family.
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20 Sep 2025
Comedy Underground | Neel Kolhatkar
Black Belt ComedyNeel Kolhatkar loves two things — comedy and martial arts. What he admires most about martial arts is the belt system: a clear marker of skill earned through skill and experience. Neel believes comedy should be no different. With social media flooded by stand-ups of every stripe, there’s no way to gauge a comedian’s experience and skill level — so why not introduce comedy belts? From ‘white belts’ telling dad jokes to ‘black belts’ tackling dark, taboo topics with nuance and precision. Black Belt Comedy is Neel’s personal challenge — to earn the right to say the hardest things in the funniest way. Neel Kolhatkar is known for his sharp observational, cultural, and political comedy — always walking the fine line between edgy and highbrow. He describes his style much like himself: “dark and intelligent.” This year’s show dives into cultural quirks, relationships and modern social dynamics, all delivered with Neel’s signature impressions and accents. He’s also branching into fresh ground, with exciting new material and top-tier support acts rounding out the night. Don’t miss Neel Kolhatkar’s brand new show – Black Belt Comedy. Book now!
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22 Sep 2025 - 26 Sep 2025
The Sound Collectors | Kunga Jungun
The Sound Collectors | Kunga JungunStep into a sonic adventure these school holidays with Kombumerri musician and composer Lann Levinge. Please fill in the below form if you would like to attend one or all of our workshops (It's all FREE). This immersive four-day, nature-filled journey invites young people to ‘Kunga Jungun’ which means to Hear Country in Yugambeh language. Explore sound, songlines, music and storytelling through a First Nations cultural lens. Roam the natural surroundings of HOTA, collect field recordings and sounds of nature, before heading back into the studio to compose your very own soundscape. Bring your imagination, creative spirit and listening ears to be inspired by the world around us. Add your own vocals, storytelling or music making as we learn to share stories through the world of soundscapes. The workshops culminate in a special listening party for family and friends. No technical skills required - Lann will guide you through the use of recording and editing gear. Participants are welcome to attend all four-dates for a full creative journey or come along to one full day.Ages: Suitable for Young People aged 10+ (limited to 20 participants per day). We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to attend. BYO: Lunch, water bottle, hat, sun protection and any musicals instruments if you have themQuestions: info@everybodynow.com.au
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24 Sep 2025 - 23 Sep 2025
Kids Take Over 2025
KIDS GO INTERGALACTICGet ready to step into an Intergalactic world full of shows, activities and adventures!Enter into an imaginary space station full of surprises, take flight to another planet in the world Premiere of Into Space and follow along with HOTA's Mascot The Bin Chicken in an enchanting quest around the HOTA precinct.This year, Kids Take Over children’s festival is bursting with free and ticketed workshops, creative experiences, performances, and everything in between.Perfect for kids aged 3 to 11, it's the ultimate memory-maker, boredom-buster, and creative play festival for kids on the Gold Coast. Stand back and watch the next generation unleash their imaginations and take charge as kids take over at HOTA. Presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts
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23 Sep 2025
School Holidays at David Fleay Wildlife Park
Go wild these school holidays and join one of David Fleay Wildlife Park’s Junior Ranger Programs. This is your family’s chance to see the wild like never before – thrilling encounters, unforgettable moments, and a deeper connection to Australia’s amazing wildlife await! Program: Junior Rangers – Animal Carers Age Group: 12-14 years Price: $28.85 Time: 9.30am – 11.30am Dates Offered: Tuesday 23 September Does your child dream of working with animals? This is their chance to step into the boots of a wildlife ranger! In the Animal Carers Program, participants will get hands-on experience with the daily duties of caring for native animals. From performing health checks and cleaning enclosures to preparing meals for furry, feathery, and scaly residents, they’ll gain a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to care for Australia’s incredible wildlife. Program: Junior Rangers – Protectors Age Group: 5-7 years Price: $28.85 Time: 9.30am – 11.00am Dates Offered: Wednesday 24 September Venture into the park to meet some of their iconic animal ambassadors, including Bridled nailtail wallabies, Estuarine crocodiles, and dynamic dingoes. Along the way, you’ll learn fascinating facts about these incredible creatures. Next, you’ll step into the mysterious world of their nocturnal house, where Junior Rangers will encounter the fascinating creatures of the night. This includes an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour! To wrap up the day, the Junior Rangers will get hands-on by designing, creating, and applying an enrichment challenge for the animals – a fun and creative way to support their wellbeing. Program: Family Program – Deadly and Dangerous Age Group: From 5 years Price: $10.35 pp for up to 10. Time: 11.30am – 12.30pm Dates Offered: Thursday 25 September | Thursday 2 October | Friday 3 October Get up close with Queensland’s most incredible and fearsome wildlife, including apex predators. Witness their power and learn how they care for these magnificent creatures. Discover how humans and wildlife can live together in harmony through fascinating stories and hands-on activities. Program: Family Program – Waterway Warriors Age Group: From 5 years Price: $10.35 pp for up to 10. Time: 11.30am – 12.30pm Dates Offered: Friday 26 September | Wednesday 1 October Gather the family and join expert Educational Rangers for an up-close encounter with some incredible wildlife ambassadors! This hands-on experience is perfect for families who love wildlife, nature, and making a difference. Meet and feed a variety of aquatic birds, reptiles, and mammals. Hear their inspiring rescue stories and discover how they found a second chance at life. Learn simple ways your family can help protect our waterways and the amazing creatures that call them home. Program: Junior Rangers – Guardians Age Group: 8-12 years Price: $28.85 Time: 9.30am – 11.30am Dates Offered: Tuesday 30 September Kick off the day by meeting some of their most beloved residents, including Bridled nailtail wallabies, Estuarine crocodiles, and dynamic dingoes. Your children will learn fascinating facts about these incredible creatures and their unique habitats. Then step into the shadows of their nocturnal house for a behind-the-scenes tour, where you’ll encounter the mysterious creatures of the night and discover how they thrive in the dark. Plus get up close with their koala ambassadors and learn about the special care they need, including their love for Eucalyptus leaves, and what Queensland’s Wildlife Rangers are doing to help their survival in the wild. Finally, your Junior Rangers will put their creativity to the test by designing, building, and presenting an enrichment challenge to keep the animals happy and healthy. Spots are limited, so don’t wait – book now and let the adventure begin! BOOK NOW
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24 Sep 2025
DJ Skool
DJ SkoolDJ Skool is back for Kids! Armed with headphones and a DJ booth, these intimate classes will teach kids how to create their own party playlist and mix their own beats.DJing has become a cool and fun way to inspire your kids to get into music without choosing an instrument.This is a drop in event on Wed 24 Sept and Thu 2 Oct, 10am-2pm.
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24 Sep 2025 - 02 Oct 2025
Kids Take Over | Intergalatic Pizzeria
Kids Take Over | Intergalatic PizzeriaBlast off to Planet Jupiter for the ultimate pizza-making adventure. Join our space-chef captain as we transform everyday ingredients into out-of-this-world creations. Will your pizza be inspired by friendly aliens, Martians, and gooey space slugs... or will you create a gastronomic delight fit for an astronaut! Design your own delicious flying saucer, bake it in our cosmic kitchen, and best of all — eat your galactic masterpiece! Important mission info: Budding explorers must wear enclosed shoes for lift off. Don’t worry — space aprons will be provided! Recommended for Ages 8+.Parents must remain with their kids.
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25 Sep 2025
Lego Battle | Out of this World
Lego Battle | Out of this WorldPrepare for lift-off into a galaxy of imagination and excitement!Join Andrew and Damien from Clicking Bricks for the most epic LEGO showdown ever staged. This isn’t just a battle, it’s a cosmic clash of creativity, where bold builders rise and bricks fly!Bring your friends, your family, and your sense of adventure for an unforgettable evening packed with high-stakes LEGO building, Live Music and a special appearance by a fire twirler, lighting up the night with a dazzling display of flame and skill!
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25 Sep 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
Explore The Night Sky
Explore The Night SkyCalling all young space explorers for a fun and fascinating night under the stars. Set in the HOTA Precinct this special event is designed just for kids and families. Discover the wonders of the Southern night sky - from twinkling constellations and bright planets to sparkling star clusters and even distant galaxies! With real telescopes, binoculars, and your own eyes, you'll explore the universe like a true astronomer and learn things like why Saturn has rings, where to find the Southern Cross and what a shooting star really is. Whether you're dreaming of becoming an astronomer, astronaut or just love looking up at the stars, this is a magical night your whole family will remember. Ages: Suitable for kids 7+ and their grown-ups What to bring: Enclosed shoes, warm clothes, and your curiosity Bonus: Telescopes, binoculars, and space fun provided!
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25 Sep 2025 - 27 Sep 2025
Galaxy Salon
Galaxy SalonHere at the galaxy salon, we specialise in out of this world makeup & hair styles enter a human, exit an extraterrestrialFree, non-ticketed. First in basis.
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25 Sep 2025 - 27 Sep 2025
Arcadia
ArcadiaStep into another world at Arcadia! Located in the HOTA foyer, this immersive arcade experience is fun for all ages. Bring the whole family and challenge them to a game of pinball, car racing, or even a dance-off. Let the games begin!
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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.