We’re calling it. April has to be one of the best months for events on the Gold Coast. The not too warm and not too cold weather makes it the perfect time to get out and about to enjoy the smorgasbord on offer. And we’re talking, bursting at the seams stuff. From Bluesfest to The Drop, live music lovers are in for a treat, while culture buffs can expect a jam-packed schedule thanks to Bleach* and our annual Film Fest.
Diaries at the ready, here are the best thing to do on the Gold Coast this April.
American Express Open-Air Cinema
If a night of entertainment under the stars sounds like your perfect evening, then look no further than this open-air cinema. From Wednesday, 3 April, the cinema will be showing a bunch of highly anticipated new releases, as well as showcasing local musicians and DJs as pre-movie entertainment. With a jam-packed roster, expect classics like Dirty Dancing and blockbusters like Captain Marvel. Oh, and there’ll also be antipasto and wood-fired pizzas from the gang at Salt Meats Cheese, plus ice cream and a full pop up bar. There’s plenty of seating available as well as extra blankets and loungers that can be hired with any ticket purchase. It’s dog-friendly too, so bring your fur babies along to enjoy the flick.
When: Wednesday 3 to Sunday 14 April, from 6pm
Where: Broadwater Parklands, Marine Parade, Southport
Cost: $17
For more information, click here.
Gold Coast Film Festival
The Gold Coast’ epic film festival is back for its 17th year and it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Spanning 12 days, the festival is a celebration of local and international filmmakers, showcasing work from aspiring directors, influential actors and big-time movie makers. The program is full of panel discussions, film screenings, interviews, meet and greets and documentaries so book in early so you don’t miss out.
When: From Wednesday 3 to Sunday 14 April
Where: Various locations across the Gold Coast
Cost: Ticket prices vary
For more information, click here.
The Drop
Because music and surfing are the ultimate coastal power couple, The Drop festival is back for its second year following the Australian leg of the World Surf League Championship Tour. The festival will touch down on the Gold Coast in Coolangatta and is bringing with it some top-notch headliners such as Angus and Julia Stone, Client Liaison, Hockey Dad, The Jungle Giants, and Alex the Astronaut. We can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
When: Saturday 6 April, 3pm to 10pm
Where: Elizabeth Park, Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cost: $101.47
For more information, click here.
Matt Corby At Miami Marketta
Multi-award-winning and platinum-selling artist Matt Corby is bringing his Rainbow Valley album tour to the Gold Coast, and we couldn’t be more excited. His laid-back coastal tunes are the perfect soundtrack to a chilled-out Sunday evening, and even if you’re not a long-time fan (who isn’t?), you’ll still be able to enjoy his stunning voice and intricate guitar skills. Be sure to book your tickets ASAP to secure your spot in the mosh at Miami Marketta.
When: Sunday 7 April, 4:30pm to 8pm
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Cost: $81.50
For more information, click here.
Ain’t That Swell Podcast Show
Responsible for a new wave of surf lingo and surf culture, the Ain’t That Swell podcast is taking its talk show on the road with their first ever Up the Swellians National tour. Creators Smivvy and Deadly, along with a host of regular characters including Surf World editor Danny Johnson, WSL head commentator Ronnie Blakey, and master world champion Rob Bain are touring the country and will be stopping down in Coolangatta to give local surf nuts a chance to get up close and personal with them. Whether you’ve heard of them before or not, if you’re a surfer (and you don’t take it too seriously), you’re guaranteed to become an instant fan.
When: Wednesday 10 April, 7pm to 10pm
Where: Coolangatta Hotel, Cnr Marine Parade and Warner St, Coolangatta
Cost: $23.50
For more information, click here.
Burleigh Brewing Co Outdoor Cinema
Local beer experts Burleigh Brewing Co have teamed up with the Gold Coast Film Festival to bring you a special screening of the 90s classic, Boogie Nights. There will also be a short film screening from a local Gold Coast filmmaker, and in addition to their iconic and delicious beers, there’s wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and popcorn on offer too. Beer and a good movie? Now that’s Friday night sorted.
When: Friday 12 April, 6pm to 10pm
Where: Burleigh Brewing Co, 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
Cost: Free
For more information, click here.
Horror In The Hinterland
Horror enthusiasts get to take their thrills to a whole new level with this outdoor cinema experience. The doubleheader screening will take place in the hinterland which, trust us, takes a scary turn when the sun goes down. For your ticket, you’ll be treated to the Australian premiere of The Furies and twisted slasher flick The Cabin in the Woods, starring Chris Hemsworth. The Furies filmmakers and select cast members will be there to answer all of your horror flick questions. There will also be food and drinks available. Be sure to bring your blankets and pillows (even if they’re just to cover your eyes).
When: Saturday 13 April, 7pm to 10:30pm
Where: Secret location (released to ticket holders only).
Cost: $35
For more information, click here.
Twilight Experience At David Fleay Wildlife Park
David Fleay Wildlife Park is opening its gates after dark for the ultimate twilight animal experience this April. One of the oldest living cultures in the world, the Yugembeh people, will take you through a journey of song, dance, and storytelling. Park rangers will also take tours to watch the wildlife after dark, paying special attention to the nocturnal house, where you’ll be able to see platypus, gliders and bilbies in action.
When: Saturday 13, Thursday 18 and Saturday 20 April, 6pm to 8:45pm
Where: David Fleay Wildlife Park, Loman Lane, West Burleigh
Cost: $39-$99
For more information, click here.
Bleach* Festival
Us Gold Coasters are all pretty familiar with Bleach Festival, the 12-day long arts carnival that celebrates musicians, artists, dancers, comedians, performers, and culture. But this year they’re unveiling something new. A never before seen Bleach hub at Burleigh will feature a host of events including live music, contemporary dance, children’s workshops, and the Bleach Club—a new pop up bar on the beach.
When: Wednesday 17 to Sunday 28 April
Where: Bleach At Burleigh, 1698 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Cost: Most events are free, check the program for more details.
For more information, click here.
The Spiegeltent Gold Coast
The Strut & Fret Production Company’s Spiegeltent returns to the Gold Coast, this time with a full festival program of A-grade music, cabaret, comedy, circus and theatre. So far, they have already announced performances including Katie Noonan, Joan as Police Woman, and Carlotta, as well as Helpmann Award-nominated cabaret and circus spectacle Limbo Unhinged. There’ll also be some world-class comedy acts on show, including Tom Gleeson and Peter Helliar. Check out their action-packed program and start booking those tickets, because you won’t want to miss out.
When: Wednesday 17 April to Sunday 12 May
Where: Gold Coast Bulletin Centenary Park, Cnr Gold Coast Highway and T E Peters Drive, Broadbeach
Cost: Ticket prices vary
For more information, click here.
Byron Bay Bluesfest
It’s that time of year again, and Bluesfest is back and bringing with it some of the best live acts in the world, including Tash Sultana, Ocean Alley, Iggy Pop, Hozier, Norah Jones, Richard Clapton and Paul Kelly, just to name a few. There will be more than 200 performances across seven stages, as well as five licensed bars, 100 food and market stalls, undercover food courts and beer gardens. Yep, it’s going to be a big one, so be sure to book your tickets now and get ready for a memorable weekend.
When: Thursday 18 to Monday 22 April
Where: Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, Lot 103-105 Pacific Highway, Tyagarah
Cost: $195-$930
For more information, click here.
Looking for more awesome things to do on the Gold Coast? Check out these paint and sip classes or visit was one of these stunning waterfalls.
Image credit: Bleach* Festival