What’s On In The Gold Coast This Weekend, Month And Beyond
Harmony Lee
Contributor | Urban List, Gold Coast, QLD
Theatre, live music, cultural celebrations and world-class sporting events—this weekend is shaping up to be an absolute doozy, with a little something-something for everyone. The cherry on top? It’s looking like we’ll be bathed in sweet sunshine the whole time. Hallelujah.
Grab your family, your friends, your sunscreen and read on to plan your perfect weekend.
Jump to each section:
What's On Friday 20 February
Kick Off The Weekend With Free Live Music At Mo’s Club Night
Image Credit: Mo's Desert Clubhouse | Facebook
If your ideal Friday involves awesome live music and no entry fee, then Mo's Desert Clubhouse is the place to be. Their first-ever Club Night is bringing free live sets from Jollee and JJ Speedball, plus a margarita happy hour and free pool on the brand-new pool table.
Expect frozen margies, meat tray raffles, food trucks on the deck and a dance floor where the most creative movers might just score free sunnies. This one is bound to be a good time, so get there early to make the most of it.
Where: Mo's Desert Clubhouse, 6/36 Central Dr, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
When: Friday 20 February, from 4pm
Cost: Free entry
To find out more here.
What's On Saturday 21 February
Start Your Day Strong At A Morning Rave At Cali Beach Club
Image Credit: Cali Beach Club | Supplied
Whether you're a committed morning raver already or just dipping your toes in the water, this event might just be the perfect way to kick start your Saturday. Cali Beach Club is hosting a sunrise rave soundtracked by DJ Eggs Benny, with Sydney selectors DJ Talisha and YES BOONE taking things into daytime territory.
The vibe leans high-energy but wholesome, pairing dance floor endorphins with ocean air and delicious breakfast bites. Proof that you can have a big Saturday without sacrificing your Sunday.
Where: Cali Beach Club, 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Saturday 21 February, from 8am—11:30am
Cost: Free entry
For more information and tickets, click here.
Rock Royalty Hits The Coast With The Darkness Live At Miami Marketta
Get ready for riffs and unapologetic rock theatrics as The Darkness return to our golden shores. The UK legends are bringing their signature glam-rock chaos to Miami Marketta, blending fan favourites with new tracks from their latest release.
Known for outrageous outfits, huge vocals and crowds that sing every word, their live shows are pure spectacle. If you like your gigs cheeky and a little nostalgic, this one’s a no-brainer.
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami QLD 4220
When: Saturday 21 February, from 6pm
Cost: $89.90 per adult
For more information and tickets, click here.
Celebrate Lunar New Year In Southport Chinatown
Image Credit: City of Gold Coast | Supplied
Southport’s Chinatown is dialling up the colour this Saturday for a free Lunar New Year celebration for the Year of the Horse. Expect lion and dragon dances, Kizuna drummers, market stalls and a family-friendly lineup of cultural workshops and activities.
The beloved $5 Food Safari is making a comeback as well, meaning you can graze your way through the precinct without blowing the budget. And make sure you stick around for the fireworks finale at 7:30pm, the perfect ending to an epic celebration.
Where: Chinatown, Davenport St & Young Street, Southport QLD 4215
When: Saturday 21 February, from 3pm—7:30pm
Cost: Free entry
Find out more here.
Hear Led Zeppelin Like Never Before With A Full Orchestra
Rock nostalgia gets a cinematic upgrade as Zeppelin teams up with the Gold Coast Chamber Orchestra. This immersive live production reimagines Zeppelin classics with sweeping orchestral arrangements and layered visuals.
From the drama of Kashmir to the grandeur of Stairway to Heaven, the result is equal parts concert and theatrical experience. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just here for the goosebumps, expect a seriously epic night.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Saturday 21 February, from 7:30pm
Cost: $85—$90 per adult depending on seating
Find out more and book tickets here.
What's On Sunday 22 February
Dance, Feast And Celebrate At A Family-Friendly Brazilian Carnaval
Bring your dancing shoes (and maybe a stretchy waistband) because Brazilian Carnaval is bringing the heat this Sunday. Expect a joyful mix of live music, dance, food, art and cultural showcases in a celebration designed for all ages.
The vibe is inclusive and high-energy, with plenty to keep both kids and grown-ups entertained. It doesn't matter what your cultural heritage is—everyone is welcome at this colourful family event.
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami QLD 4220
When: Sunday 22 February, from 2pm
Cost: $40.55 per person online or $49.75 at the door
Find out more and secure your ticket here.
What's On All Weekend
Watch World-Class Surfers Battle It Out At The Gold Coast Open
Image Credit: Surfing Queensland | Facebook
Burleigh Heads is turning into a world-stage surf arena as the Gold Coast Open rolls into town. The comp will see top international and Aussie surfers chasing serious points and bragging rights.
Beyond the waves, expect a lively beachside atmosphere with live music, skate activations and sunrise sessions. Even if you don’t know your cutbacks from your carves, it’s prime spectating territory with a great community energy.
Where: Burleigh Hill, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
When: Thursday 19 February to Sunday 22 February
Cost: Free
Find out more here.
See A Powerful True Story Brought To Life On Stage At HOTA
If you’re after something a little more thought-provoking, this critically acclaimed theatre production delivers. Based on real events, It's Time explores trauma, memory and reconciliation through a deeply human lens.
Emotional and layered with powerful performances, this is the kind of show that lingers on your mind long after curtain call. Consider it a compelling culture fix for the weekend.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Thursday 19 February to Saturday 21 February
Cost: Ticket prices vary; up to $55
More details and tickets here.
Cheer On Elite Athletes At The Para Swimming World Series
Some of the world’s best para swimmers will be making waves on the Gold Coast this weekend. This standalone World Series event is putting para athletes front and centre, offering Gold Coast locals a rare chance to witness elite competition up close.
It's a great opportunity to carve out some time for inspiration over your weekend and cheer on these incredible athletes in person. Beyond the racing, it’s also a meaningful milestone for Australian swimming as the sport builds towards future Paralympic pathways.
Where: Gold Coast Aquatic Centre,
When: Friday 20 February to Sunday 22 February
Cost: Free entry
Find out more here.
Browse The Gold Coast’s Best Markets
One thing the Gold Coast continues to get right is the markets. Whether it's vintage threads, the best food, local produce and live music, they continue to meet the mark. Check out our ultimate Gold Coast markets guide for the full wrap-up on where to go and what to eat. Happy strolling.
What's Coming Up
La Clique Is Returning To HOTA In 2026
Image Credit: La Clique | Supplied
After a massive sold-out run in 2025, the internationally adored cabaret-circus show La Clique is making its way back to HOTA in 2026—and trust us, this encore season is going to be even bigger, bolder and more fabulous. Expect a fresh lineup of world-class performers alongside the cult-fave acts everyone lost their minds over last year, serving up a heady mix of high-octane acrobatics, seductive cabaret and laugh-til-you-snort comedy.
If you missed out the first time (or you’re ready for round two), consider this your sign to lock in a night of glitz and gasp-worthy spectacle.
Where: Lakeside Room, HOTA Central
When: 26 March to 19 April 2026
Cost: Tickets from $49
Click here for more info.
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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