What’s On In The Gold Coast This Weekend, Month And Beyond

Can you believe we're already heading into August? It feels like July only just began, yet somehow we find ourselves in the final month of winter. As much as I've loved having an excuse to sit around the fire with a rich glass of red, the promise of spring on the horizon has me absolutely giddy.

As does this weekend's lineup—sporting events, sustainable markets and a few seriously fun nights out. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of it on the Gold Coast/Kombumerri country.

Jump to each section:​

• What's On Friday
• What's On Saturday
• What's On Sunday
• What's On All Weekend
• What's Coming Up

What's On Friday 31 July

Watch Josh Giddey Take Over Balter Taproom For This Street Basketball Spectacular

Friday 31 July

Image credit: Dime Street Basketball | Instagram

NBA star Josh Giddey is coming to the Gold Coast this Friday for AirTouch Above The Rim, a live street basketball event at Balter Brewery that is about as far from a standard sports night as you can get. Twelve teams compete in a 2v2 half-court tournament across the evening, with a live dunk showcase, a centre-court Q&A with Giddey himself and a fan shooting challenge all woven into the program between sessions. 

The venue has been transformed into a street basketball arena for the night, with courtside VIP booths, a live DJ, big-screen entertainment and activations including custom made-to-order merch and live haircuts. Doors open at 4pm, capacity is limited and tickets are required—grab yours before they're gone.

Where: Balter Brewery Taproom, Currumbin
When: Friday 31 July, from 4pm
Cost: Ticketed event, prices vary
Find out more and grab tickets here.

Dine Beneath The Stars At Celestial Nights

Friday 31 July

Image credit: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort | Supplied

This curated dining experience will have you seeing stars—literally. InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is teaming up with Gold Coast Astronomy to transform the resort’s Fountain Terrace into an open-air observatory where you can wine, dine and be dazzled by the wonders of the galaxy. You’ll be welcomed with a signature Celestial Nights cocktail before taking a seat at the long table for a multi-course menu by 2026 Chef of the Year, Hamish Watt.

Naturally, your dinner will draw inspiration from the cosmos like the Stellar Veil pairing creamy Byron Bay burrata with pomegranate and beetroot, the Ember Meridian which is a char-grilled sirloin reflecting the warmth and intensity of distant stars and Halley’s Comet for dessert: an elegant rum and vanilla panna cotta designed to leave a lasting impression. You’ll also have access to professional-grade telescopes as you embark on a guided celestial exploration between courses, as your local guide points out constellations, planets and seasonal celestial highlights. 

The night is capped at 54 guests so make sure to save your seat here. And if you can't make it this weekend, they'll be repeating the magic again on Friday 7 August—just be sure to book.

Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
When: Friday 31 July, from 6pm
Cost: $159 per guest
Find out more here.

What's On Saturday 1 August

Get Your Green Thumb Going At The Botanical Bazaar

Saturday 1 August

What's On Sunday 2 August

Be Dazzled At This Night Of Burlesque, Fire And Spectacle

Sunday 2 August

Mo's Desert Clubhouse is transforming into something a little more theatrical than usual this Sunday night, with RISQUÉ bringing an evening of burlesque, fire performance and live vocals to the Burleigh venue. It's a full sensory experience—fire displays, shimming dancers, burlesque performers and immersive lighting all combining into a show that's equal parts glamorous and impressive. 

Doors open at 6:30pm and capacity is limited, so this is one to book ahead rather than chance on the door. 

Where: Mo's Desert Clubhouse, 6/36 Central Dr, Burleigh Heads
When: Sunday 2 August, doors 6:30pm
Cost: $55 online, $60 on the door
Find out more and grab tickets here.

Cheer On The Suns On Home Soil

Sunday 2 August

Our favourite AFL team, the Gold Coast SUNS, are back at People First Stadium this Sunday for a round 21 clash against the Melbourne Demons, and with gates opening early there's plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere before first bounce at 3:15pm. Fan zones and family-friendly activities make it a solid outing for people of all ages, and honestly, few things in life beat an afternoon of footy with a side of hot chips in hand. 

Wear your colours, bring the noise and help the team make the most of their home ground advantage. Tickets start from $30—grab yours and get down to Carrara.

Where: People First Stadium, Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara
When: Sunday 2 August, first bounce 3:15pm
Cost: From $30
For more info and tickets, click here.

What's On All Weekend

Soak Up The Stoke At The Kirra Longboard Klassic

Friday 31 July—Sunday 2 August

One of the Gold Coast's most beloved surf events returns to Kirra Beach this weekend, with the Kirra Longboard Klassic bringing three days of longboarding, live music, surf film, adaptive surfing and community spirit to one of Australia's most iconic breaks. The weekend kicks off Friday with the Fluro Friday Mental Health Initiative and the inaugural TRIM Longboard Film Festival, before flowing into a full Saturday of competition and live music from Jason Kafoa and the Black Pearl Band. 

The event wraps Sunday with beachside yoga, a vintage surf wagon Show and Shine and the Waves Without Limits Adaptive Surfing Exhibition. The most coveted prize of the whole event isn't for the best surfing—it's the "Surfer Having the Most Fun" Award, which tells you everything you need to know about the vibe, so pull up a spot in the sand and settle in for a weekend of good times and better waves.

Where: Kirra Beach, Coolangatta
When: Friday 31 July—Sunday 2 August
Cost: Free
Find out more here.

After The Rain

Saturday 4 July—Sunday 27 September

Image credit: After The Rain | Joe Ruckli

A powerful First Nations triennial has transformed the first two levels of HOTA into a showcase of resilience and intergenerational cultural legacies. The free exhibition by artistic director and acclaimed Girramay/Yidinji/Kuku-Yalanji artist Tony Albert features newly commissioned works of leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, with 10 installations to check out.

“After the Rain positions the creative brilliance of First Nations artists at the centre of national  conversation, offering a restorative and forward-looking exploration of Country and culture,” said Albert. “After  the rain, the land is cleansed, seeds begin to sprout, and new life emerges. I am excited to  welcome visitors to the HOTA to celebrate the strength and beauty of what is flourishing.”

The exhibition was developed by the National Gallery of Australia and will tour the country, with Gold Coast serving as its first stop and will run for three months.

Where: Gallery 2 and 3, HOTA
When: Saturday 4 July—Sunday 27 September
Cost: Free
Find out more here.

Christmas In July at D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub

Wednesday 1 July—Friday 31 July

Image credit: D'Arcy Arms | Supplied

Follow the sound of merry bells this July to Gold Coast’s historic Irish pub, which is transforming into a festive wonderland where the roasts are hearty and the fire is roaring. 

Christmas in July at D’Arcy Arms is centred around a two-course festive feast, featuring roast turkey, pork and ham with vegetables, stuffing, Yorkshire pudding and gravy, plus cranberry and apple sauce. For dessert, you’re looking at a decadent triple chocolate brownie pudding with raspberry coulis, vanilla ice cream and shaved dark chocolate on top—heightened by the twinkling lights and tinsel adorning the pub. The feast is available every day in July but pre-bookings are essential so make yours by giving them a buzz at 07 5592 0882 between 9am to 5pm, or emailing info@darcyarms.com.au.

Where: D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub
When: Wednesday 1 July—Friday 31 July
Cost: $55 per adult and $27.50 per child.
Find out more here.

Alcotraz

Friday 26 June—Saturday 31 October

Image credit: Alcotraz | Supplied

While we don’t normally suggest ending up behind bars on your next night out, Gold Coast's new and immersive cocktail experience invites you to do just that. Inspired by Hollywood’s greatest prison stories, Alcotraz gives you an inmate number and orange jumpsuit to pop on before ushering you into a speakeasy-style cell block for the evening. It’s part role-play/part bar, as crooked guards and bootlegging accomplices whisk you into the world while pouring signature cocktails like the dangerously smooth Conspiracy (premium mezcal, burnt coconut tequila, pineapple and a hint of cinnamon) or the Crime of Passion (passionfruit liqueur, strawberry puree, lime, cranberry and orange). Tickets are $65 and you can grab yours here.

Where: 29 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: From 26 June to 31 October
Cost: $65 per person
For more info and tickets, head here.

Check Out HOTA's Major New Chinese Contemporary Art Exhibition

18 April—11 October

Image Credit: HOTA | Supplied

HOTA is welcoming a major new exhibition this weekend, bringing works from the internationally renowned White Rabbit Collection to the Gold Coast. 'This Moment' gathers 35 artworks from 25 leading contemporary Chinese artists, offering a powerful snapshot of creativity, culture and change across 21st-century China.

Spanning large-scale installations, video, photography, painting and sculpture, the exhibition explores themes of identity, history and transformation through bold, experimental works. It's a rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s most significant collections of contemporary Chinese art, with a public program of talks, tours and workshops adding further depth for those wanting to dive deeper. 

And if you're anything like us, you'll want to take your tastebuds on a journey too; Palette has unveiled its 12th exhibition tasting menu curated by Executive Chef, Dayan Hartill-Law, with impressive dishes that utilise the techniques, ingredients and flavours of China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Where: HOTA Gallery, Surfers Paradise
When: 18 April–11 October, 10am to 4pm daily
Cost: Free
To find more, click here.

Immerse Yourself In The Awe-Inspiring Works Of Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart

Saturday 7 March–Sunday 16 August 

Grab the family and step into a brilliant world of colour, culture and storytelling at Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart, a new Children’s Gallery exhibition at HOTA. Created by acclaimed First Nations artist Lisa Sorbie Martin—known to family as Aka (grandmother)—the immersive space brings memories of her Torres Strait childhood to life through bold patterns, ocean-inspired artworks and interactive play. 

Kids can explore coral-filled undersea scenes, build cubbies in the island hut, discover patterns in nature and get creative at Aka’s art table. Designed to bring freshwater and saltwater people together, it’s a beautiful opportunity for families to connect with First Nations culture while sparking curiosity and imagination.

Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Saturday 7 March–Sunday 16 August
Cost: Free entry
Find out more here.

What's Coming Up

Palette X Pipit

Wednesday 9 September

Image credit: Rhiannon Taylor | Supplied

Two of the region's most acclaimed chefs are joining forces for one night only. Palette Restaurant will welcome Ben Devlin of Pipit for an exclusive six-course collaboration celebrating the produce of the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers.

Hosted by Palette's executive chef Dayan Hartill-Law and Devlin, the dinner will showcase hyper-local ingredients sourced from regional farmers, fishers and artisan producers, with dishes shaped by both chefs' shared focus on seasonality and sustainability. Guests can also upgrade their evening with a Gyotaku fish-printing masterclass led by Devlin before heading behind the scenes into Palette's kitchen via HOTA's signature Art Lift.

Where: Ground floor HOTA Gallery, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
When: Wednesday 9 September
Cost: From $290 per person
Find out more here.

Groundwater Country Music Festival

Friday 16 October–Sunday 18 October

Image credit: Groundwater Country Music Festival | Supplied

One of Australia's biggest country music festivals is heading back to the beach this spring. Groundwater Country Music Festival returns to Broadbeach this October, bringing three days of free live music, line dancing, food and beachside stages to the Gold Coast.

Leading the 2026 lineup is Australian country icon Kasey Chambers, joined by New Zealand star Kaylee Bell, The Wolfe Brothers, Beccy Cole, James Blundell, Kingswood, Lane Pittman, Hayley Jensen and more than 30 other Australian and international acts. Alongside the live performances, expect beachside line dancing, bluegrass breakfasts, country DJs and open-air sets just steps from the sand.

Where: Broadbeach, Gold Coast 
When: Friday 16–Sunday 18 October
Cost: Free
Find out more here.

Celestial Nights

7 August

Image credit: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort | Supplied

This curated dining experience will have you seeing stars—literally. InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is teaming up with Gold Coast Astronomy to transform the resort’s Fountain Terrace into an open-air observatory where you can wine, dine and be dazzled by the wonders of the galaxy. It’s fine dining meets astronomy across three very special nights, taking advantage of Gold Coast’s clear winter skies.

You’ll be welcomed with a signature Celestial Nights cocktail before taking a seat at the long table for a multi-course menu by 2026 Chef of the Year, Hamish Watt. Naturally, your dinner will draw inspiration from the cosmos like the Stellar Veil pairing creamy Byron Bay burrata with pomegranate and beetroot, the Ember Meridian which is a char-grilled sirloin reflecting the warmth and intensity of distant stars and Halley’s Comet for dessert: an elegant rum and vanilla panna cotta designed to leave a lasting impression. You’ll also have access to professional-grade telescopes as you embark on a guided celestial exploration between courses, as your local guide points out constellations, planets and seasonal celestial highlights. 

Each night is capped at 54 guests so make sure to save your seat here. 

Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
When: Friday 7 August 2026, from 6pm
Cost: $159 per guest
Find out more here.

Heathers The Musical

30 July–9 August

Image credit: Heathers the Musical | HOTA

Wickedly funny and incredibly catchy, Heathers the Musical is coming in hot direct from London and New York. Based on the iconic movie starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, this deliciously dark show has it all: high school politics, passionate romance, and a killer soundtrack (literally). 

Whether you’re already a fan or know nothing about Westerberg High, Heathers is a cult classic for a reason so don’t miss out when it lands at HOTA this year. 

Where: HOTA
When: 30 July to 9 August
Cost: From $79.90
Find out more and grab your tickets here.

Mamma Mia!

Friday 4 September–Sunday 20 September

Image credit: Mamma Mia! | Supplied

It’s been 25 years since Mamma Mia! first made its debut in London’s West End. Since then, over 70 million people across the globe have delighted in the heartwarming story and infectious ABBA hits—and Gold Coast is up next.

The iconic shows will be bringing the groove to The Star for a limited season this September featuring an all-Australian cast and your favourite tunes like Dancing Queen, SOS and Mamma Mia (duh). If you’ve never seen Mamma Mia! live on stage, trust us—it’s one you don’t want to miss. Plus, until 11:50am on Saturday 20 June, all tickets are $72 so snap ‘em up now here. 

Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach
When: Friday 4 September–Sunday 20 September
Cost: From $72
Find out more and grab your tickets here.

DINGO Music & Arts Festival

Thursday 8 October–Sunday 11 October

Image credit: Hiatus Kaiyote | Supplied

A brand new music and arts festival is happening across four days in the Northern Rivers, anchored by modern jazz and the rhythm of Bangalow. The hand-picked lineup includes internationally acclaimed musicians like three-time Grammy nominees Hiatus Kaiyote, London’s acclaimed Kokoroko, legendary Philadelphia selector Rich Medina, and celebrated DJ Coco Maria. They will be joined by Aussie artists, DJs and talent in the world of jazz, soul, hip hop, electronic music and contemporary club culture.

Off the stage, DINGO will present in-conversation events, performance art and workshops, as well as a Guinness World Record attempt to create The Smallest Jazz Club In The World. The festival will take place across various venues with both ticketed and free events on the cards, plus after-parties and secret venues yet to be announced. Pre-sale tickets drop Monday 13 July or you can grab general tickets on sale Wednesday 15 July.

Where: Various venues across Bangalow and Byron Bay, NSW
When: Thursday 8 October–Sunday 11 October
Find out more here.

Rolling Sets

Saturday 28 November

Image credit: Rolling Sets | Facebook

Pop across the border this November for Rolling Sets: a coastal festival bringing together live music, surf, skate and beach culture. After their successful debut in Tweed Heads last summer, they’re keeping the good times rolling (get it) with a fully stacked lineup featuring some of Australia’s most exciting artists. 

Leading the charge are Ocean Alley and Royel Otis, who will be joined by the likes of G Flip, Violent Soho, The Rions, Old Mervs, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, and plenty more. If last year is anything to go by, tickets will absolutely sell out so make sure you snap ‘em up before they’re gone here.

Where: Ebenezer Park, Tweed Heads
When: Saturday 28 November
Cost: From $199.95
Find out more here.

Looking for more? Check out:

• Hit up some of the Gold Coast’s best restaurants.
• Book the ultimate staycay at the Gold Coast’s best accommodation.
• Catch up on the Gold Coast food news you missed.

Not enough? Check out 50 free (or cheap) things to do on the Gold Coast.

Main image Credit: Burleigh Festival | Supplied

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