The music and entertainment scenes on the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country heave with talent, diversity and genuine awe any night of the week. Whether it’s an underground show headlined by local musos or an outdoor film festival featuring a star-studded lineup of international creatives.
From gigs to festivals, film to stage, where there’s a place to amp up, there’s a whole swag of musicians, creatives and artists ready to ignite and enliven the space. Here’s your front-row look at what’s ahead for the best gigs to attend on the Gold Coast according to Urban List.
December
Cosmic Psychos
When: 7-11pm, Saturday 14 December
Where: Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, 6/36 Central Dr, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
For more information, click here.
Relics in the Australian punk rock scene, Cosmic Psychos bring their pioneering grunge sound to the Gold Coast this December. Having toured back in the day with the likes of Nirvana, Motörhead and Mudhoney, this enduring group of blokes bring their iconic big sound and energetic show to the stage of Mo’s as a gig not to be missed.
IMPACT Screening
When: 450pm, Saturday 14 December
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
For more information, click here.
Want to head along to a screen event that’s equal parts heart-pumping and heart-warming? Right this way. This multi-award winning documentary is set in Byron Bay and tells the true story of two skydivers. Adrenaline already pumping? Us too. IMPACT is an epic recount that follows stories of survival after a near-fatal collision mid-air. Get all swept up in this inspiring film featuring themes of resilience, friendship and the importance of mental health. Tip: pack tissues.
Peking Duk
When: 4pm-late Saturday 21 December
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami QLD 4220
For more information, click here.
The Jesterman himself, Kelli Holiday and his loveable sidekick Reuben Styles take to the Miami Marketta stage this December. Slinging electrifying hits directly to your ears, this multi ARIA award-winning duo have garnered nearly 1 billion streams for top hits including ‘High’, ‘Stranger,’ and ‘Fire’. If their stage presence is anything to go by, you’re in for a cheeky, high-energy DJ set from Peking Duk to kick off the Chrissy break with.
January
Tijuana Cartel
When: 7-10pm Friday 3 January
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami QLD 4220
For more information, click here.
Ready for a psychedelic gig with an Aussie band who’s graced some of Australia’s largest stages? Tijuana Cartel are kicking off 2025 at Miami Marketta with their eclectic, electronic and worldly sound. Teeter between the edges of reality and fantasy during this pit stop of their Beautiful Nonsense Machine Tour with a fresh EP that blends classical and flamenco guitar riffs with addictive beats.
February
AACTA Festival
When: Wednesday 5 - Sunday 9 February 2025
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
For more information, click here.
This explosive five day screen and entertainment festival features an impressive 70+ events. Think: meet and greets with authors, Oscar winners, singer songwriters, as well as masterclasses, live screenings and workshops. As well as speakers such as Brooke Blurton, Christian Hull, Sophie Monk and Trent Dalton, yes the guy who wrote Boy Swallows Universe. AACTA offers a mixed bag of entertainment with performances, interviews and highlights to suit every taste.
Summer’s Here Festival
When: 12noon-11pm Friday 7 February 2025
Where: Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, 6/36 Central Dr, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
For more information, click here.
The Gold Coast’s sun-drenched days dissolve into balmy nights in ways that give us serious wanderlust for Mexico. Enjoy that margarita-fuelled feeling without the airfare price tag at Gold Coast’s own Mo’s Desert Clubhouse at Summer’s Here Festival all day and night. With pre-show drinks and eats kicking off from midday at El Ranchero, graze on the deck before a night of tunes with the likes of LOOSE GOOSE, Byron Bay up and comers Mid Drift, Brisbane’s Vlads and more artists to be announced. Tickets go on sale January 4.
Postmodern Jukebox
When: 630pm Wednesday 19 February 2025
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach QLD 4218
For more information, click here.
With 1000 shows under their belt, Postmodern Jukebox’s big band remix of modern tracks have attracted worldwide attention. Trumpetting highs, booming percussion and costumes that transport you to trends throughout time, this undoubtedly sultry and damn catchy setlist is our pick for an upcoming gig must-see.
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Main image credit: Miami Marketta | Supplied