This weekend is absolutely bursting at the seams with things to do, and I couldn’t be more excited. Between exploring the Gold Coast's best openings, devouring everything at the newly renovated Mamasan, plotting how to snag Laneway Festival ’26 tickets, and sniffing out every blooming flower in sight, I’ll be soaking up the healthy dose of culture on offer.
From fun SWELL Sculpture Festival experiences to an epic night market, a Chilean fiesta, and a mini-fest for a cause, the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country is overflowing with ways to get out, explore, and celebrate. Read on to plan your perfect weekend.
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 19 September
The CBD Twilight Markets Are Returning To Southport
Image Credit: CBD Twilight Markets | Supplied
The beloved CBD Twilight Markets are back this Friday evening, bringing street food, pre-loved fashion, live music, DJs, and a pop-up bar to the heart of Southport. From vegan delights by QLD Vegan Markets to non-vegan bites, there’s something for every foodie.
Local and much-loved musicians Eleea Navarro, René Le Feuvre, and Izzy Day will set the soundtrack, followed by DJ Vices to keep the vibes going. Family-friendly, dog-friendly, and completely free, what better way is there to spend your Friday night?
Where: 7 Nerang Street, Southport
When: Friday 19 September, from 5pm to 8pm
Cost: Free
For more info, click here.
Float Into Calm At JW Marriott’s Aqua Sculpt Restorative Sound Bath
Image Credit: JW Marriott Gold Coast | Supplied
Start your Friday morning in the most serene way imaginable with JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s Aqua Sculpt Restorative Sound Bath. This Friday, the resort’s saltwater lagoon will transform into a floating sanctuary, where crystal singing bowls, equilibrium chimes and guided meditation will create an immersive sound-led experience to reset body and mind.
Choose to float atop an Aqua Sculpt board or recline in a poolside cabana or lounge as harmonic vibrations ripple across the water. With just 28 spots available, this limited wellness series is the ultimate chance to restore and unwind in one of Australia’s most awarded hotel pools.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Friday 19 September, from 7am
Cost: $149 per guest for the Aqua Sculpt float; $89 per guest for the poolside cabana; $79 per guest for the poolside lounge
For more information and to book, click here.
Coldplay Fans, This One’s For You
Get ready to experience Coldplay like never before, as The Star Theatre is transformed into a candlelit wonderland for The Music of Coldplay By Candlelight. Direct from London’s West End, this mesmerising concert pairs world-class singers and an incredible live band with all your favourite hits, from Yellow to Viva La Vida.
Surrounded by the glow of hundreds of candles, you’ll be swept away on an unforgettable musical journey. Tickets are already moving fast, so don’t wait—this one’s guaranteed to be magic.
Where: The Star Theatre, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach QLD 4218
When: Friday 19 September, doors at 6:30pm
Cost: Tickets from $79 per person
For more information and tickets, click here.
Boogie Down For A Good Cause At Mo's
Get ready for a night of heavy riffs and high energy at Mo's Desert Clubhouse this Friday as a bunch of acts come together for a mini-fest raising money to support children impacted by domestic violence. Brave Daisy, Clusp, Glowdown, Wild Rocket and Mitty will take the stage, with market stalls, raffles and pre-show eats at Ranchero to keep the vibes strong.
Rock out and support a great cause at the same time—it's a win for everyone. Grab your tickets now to secure your spot.
Where: Mo's Desert Clubhouse, 6/36 Central Dr, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
When: Friday 19 September, from 6pm
Cost: $23 per person online, or $30 on the door
Tickets and more info here.
What's On Saturday 20 September
Dance Into The Day At SWELL’s Sunrise Silent Disco
Set your alarm early and swap the snooze button for a sunrise boogie at Currumbin Beach. As part of the SWELL Sculpture Festival, Best Silent Disco is bringing two hours of feel-good beats and live DJs straight to your wireless headphones.
Come solo, bring your crew, or rally the whole fam—this is the ultimate way to wake up and dance under the rising sun. Spots are limited, so book your headphones now and start your Saturday on a high.
Where: Currumbin Alley Beach (Across from Wallace Nicoll Park), Pacific Parade, Currumbin QLD 4223
When: Saturday 20 September, 5:30am—7:30am
Cost: $20 per person
For more info and to book, click here.
Step Back In Time With Vintage Jazz At SWELL
Get ready for a night of toe-tapping rhythms and old-world charm as two incredible live acts take over the SWELL Fringe Pavilion. First up, The Gypsy Cats will whisk you away with a lively mix of swing, gypsy bossa, jazz ballads and whimsical French waltzes, giving a fresh twist to the timeless Manouche style.
Then, Slips & The F.W.’s will transport you straight to 1920s New Orleans with hot, brassy early jazz, ragtime and blues. The perfect way to spend a Saturday evening by the sea.
Where: Wallace Nicoll Park, Pacific Parade, Currumbin QLD
When: Saturday 20 September, 5pm—8:45pm
Cost: Free
More info here.
What's On Sunday 21 September
Celebrate Chile Day At Mo’s Desert Clubhouse
Get ready for a full day of Chilean culture this Sunday at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, featuring traditional music, dance, and an epic culinary spread. Dance the cueca, rock your best huaso look, and catch exciting performances as well.
DJs will keep the vibes alive and the beats pumping, so make sure you limber up and bring your best dance moves. Oh, and don't forget your appetite because you'll be feasting on empanadas, anticuchos, mote con huesillo, and Chilean cocktails while enjoying games, arts and crafts, plus some fun contests.
Where: Mo's Desert Clubhouse, 6/36 Central Dr, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
When: Sunday 21 September, from
Cost: $30 per adult; $12 per child; under 12's free
More info and tickets here.
Landcare Short Film Festival Premieres On The Gold Coast
Celebrate the power of community and the beauty of our environment at the very first Landcare Short Film Festival. Featuring 13 inspiring short films from across Australia, this special evening will showcase stories of environmental action and resilience.
Held at Event Cinemas Pacific Fair this Sunday, the festival is part of the 2025 National Landcare Conference and promises to be an uplifting night of storytelling, celebration and connection. This heartfelt tribute to the spirit of landcare in all its forms is sure to be a feel-good evening, and with limited tickets remaining, you'd better get in quick.
Where: Event Cinemas Pacific Fair, 1571 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach QLD 4218
When: Sunday 21 September, from 6pm
Cost: $25 per person
More info and tickets here.
What's On All Weekend
Discover SeamTogether At SWELL Sculpture Festival
Image Credit: The Seamstresses | Facebook
Step into a whimsical stitching wonderland with SeamTogether, where comic performance meets hands-on creativity. Join Polly and Esther, two quirky “super seamstresses,” as they spin stories, hem magic with their century-old sewing machine, and inspire fresh connections to the clothes we wear.
Part theatre, part making space, this interactive experience invites you to listen, share, and even help transform garments into something new. A playful and thought-provoking addition to this year’s SWELL Sculpture Festival, it’s an all-ages experience you won’t want to miss.
Where: Wallace Nicoll Park, Pacific Parade, Currumbin QLD 4223
When: Friday 19 September to Sunday 21 September, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm and 6pm sessions
Cost: $10 per person
For more information and tickets, click here.
Ken Done Is Painting HOTA In Colour This Spring With A Vibrant New Exhibition
Image Credit: Ken Done | Supplied
Australia’s king of colour, Ken Done, is bringing his unmistakable style to HOTA with a bold new exhibition that’s bursting with joy, nostalgia and serious creative freedom. Ken Done: No Rules will take over HOTA Gallery from this Saturday 13 September to 15 February 2025, showcasing his unmistakably Australian works from the ‘80s through to now, including exclusive pieces from his own collection.
Visitors can also enjoy a captivating animation of a selection of Done’s iconic paintings, offering a new and immersive way to experience his vibrant universe. In a celebration of art, fashion and collaboration, the exhibition also features a selection of dazzling garments from 'Done Zone', the 2023 collaborative collection between Ken Done and Australian fashion label 'Romance Was Born'.
When: Saturday 13 September to Sunday 15 February, 2025
Where: Gallery 1, HOTA
Cost: Ticket prices vary; up to $21
More details here.
SWELL Sculpture Festival Kicks Off This Weekend
Image Credit: SWELL | Leximagery
Queensland’s biggest outdoor art show returns this weekend as SWELL Sculpture Festival transforms Currumbin Beach into a 1.2km-long gallery of jaw-dropping creativity. From this Friday 12 September to Sunday 21 September, wander among more than 80 large-scale contemporary sculptures by 230 national and international artists, with each piece bringing its own story to life against the stunning coastal backdrop.
Alongside the artworks, expect sunrise yoga, silent discos, art parties, live music, kids’ activities and more, making this ten-day festival a true celebration of art and community. Whether you’re catching the sculptures at dawn, dusk, or under the stars, SWELL 2025 promises to be as inspiring as it is unmissable.
We highly recommend keeping a close eye on the festival program for all the fun, fascinating activities that you (and your little ones) can engage in over the coming weeks.
Where: Various locations at Currumbin Beach and around the Gold Coast
When: Friday 12 September to Sunday 21 September, 2025
Cost: Free
Click here for more information.
School Holiday Fun For Everyone At Paradise Centre
Image Credit: Paradise Centre | Supplied
Paradise Centre is the spot to hit this September school holidays, offering a mix of free creative workshops, dazzling fire and light shows, and family-friendly dining. Kids can get crafty at the Garden of Wonder Craft Workshops, while evenings come alive with fire twirlers and LED performers in the beachfront precinct.
There are also hands-on cooking classes, Timezone and Zone Bowling for endless family entertainment, plus kids eat free offers at select restaurants. If you're looking for a fun way to tire out the kids, then look no further.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Friday 19 September to Saturday 27 September
Cost: Entry is free
More info here.
In The Heights Brings Broadway Magic to HOTA
Image Credit: In The Heights | Supplied
Gold Coast audiences are in for a treat as the award-winning musical In The Heights lands exclusively at HOTA this Friday night. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s brilliant tale of community, dreams and family in Washington Heights fuses hip-hop, salsa, and contemporary Latin beats into an electrifying theatre experience.
Featuring standout performances from Ryan González, Olivia Vásquez and a powerhouse ensemble, this Australian production has already wowed Sydney and Melbourne audiences. Don’t miss your chance to see the streets of New York come alive on stage before the season closes on 21 September.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
When: From Friday 12 September to Sunday 21 September, various times
Cost: $109 per adult; $99 per pensioner or student; $96 per child
More info here.
Step Inside The Upside-Down at House Down Under
Image Credit: House Down Under | Supplied
House Down Under has flipped the Gold Coast on its head, now open at Pacific Fair just in time for the spring school holidays. Australia’s first inverted house lets visitors wander ceilings, dance on furniture, and snap surreal photos in rooms like an upside-down bathroom, lounge, and kids’ play area.
With unlimited time inside and tips from friendly staff, it’s a fun, creative experience for families and friends alike. Tickets start at $19 per person, with kids under four free, making it a playful and affordable day out.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, 32 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach Waters
When: Saturdays & Sundays, 10am—6pm; weekdays, 12pm—6pm
Cost: $19 per person aged 4 years and older; under 4 years free
Click here for more information.
Browse The Gold Coast’s Best Markets
Sunshine, shopping, and some of the Gold Coast’s best bites—markets on our sun-kissed coastline continue to bring the vibes. Whether you're after vintage threads, local produce, live music or artisanal goods, there’s something for absolutely everyone. 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
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets Turns 30
This September, one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic markets is celebrating three decades with a massive foreshore party. On Saturday 27 September, the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets will mark their 30th anniversary with live music, roving dancers, a kids’ disco, surprise giveaways and over 100+ stalls from talented local makers.
A creative coastal event with plenty of ’90s nostalgia—you won’t want to miss this milestone evening. Come for the shopping, stay for the celebratory vibes on the Esplanade.
Where: The Surfers Paradise Esplanade, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Saturday 27 September, 4pm–9pm
Cost: Free
More information here.
First Wave Of Summer Festival Is Hosting An NRL Grand Final Watch Party
Image Credit: First Wave | Supplied
Kick off summer with a bang at The First Wave of Summer Festival, taking over Broadwater Parklands on Sunday 5 October. This free 18+ event blends sunshine, live music and footy fever, with a stacked lineup featuring Dune Rats, Example, Tenzin, The Bennies, GREG and more.
As the day winds down, the party continues with a live screening of the NRL Grand Final on the big screen. Registration is essential, so lock in your spot now and get ready for a massive day of music, mates and sport.
Where: Broadwater Parklands, Southport
When: Sunday 5 October, from 2pm
Cost: Entry is free, but registration is essential
Find out more here.
Groundwater Country Music Festival Is Back With A Seriously Stacked Line-Up
Image Credit: Groundwater Country Music Festival | Mackenzie Sweetnam
The Gold Coast’s favourite beachside country bash, Groundwater Country Music Festival, has turned the volume up with a huge second wave of artists for its October 17–19 takeover. ARIA-winner Casey Barnes will hit the stage twice—once with his full band and again for a special solo set—while US alt-country queen Nikki Lane makes her first Aussie appearance in over a decade.
Pop powerhouse turned country star Amy Sheppard also joins the bill, alongside Vincent Neil Emerson, The Pleasures, Duncan Toombs, Hayley Jensen and more. They’ll join an already star-studded first announcement featuring Troy Cassar-Daley, Sara Berki, Jackson Dean and Shane Smith & The Saints. Plus, there are more artist announcements to come.
This year’s festival is expanding across even more Broadbeach venues, bringing over 40 acts to streetside stages, balcony gigs, bustling bars and beachfront parks. Best part? It’s totally free to attend—just bring your boots and your cowboy hat.
Where: Various locations across Broadbeach
When: Friday 17 to Sunday 19 October
Cost: Free
More info here.
Monster Jam Is Roaring Into The Gold Coast
Image Credit: Monster Jam | Supplied
Monster Jam is back and bigger than ever, rolling into the Gold Coast this October with jaw-dropping stunts, freestyle madness, and a fleet of 12,000-pound trucks that defy the laws of physics.
Making their Australian debut this year are Sparkle Smash (yes, a six-tonne unicorn) and JCB DIGatron, alongside fan-faves like Megalodon, Grave Digger, and Marvel-themed beasts including Spider-Man, Thor, Black Panther and Iron Man. Plus, don’t miss the ultimate sibling rivalry when world champs Adam and Ryan Anderson go head-to-head in Grave Digger and Son-uva Digger.
Keen to get closer to the action? The Monster Jam Pit Party is the pre-show you’ll want to hit, with truck selfies, driver meet-and-greets and plenty of family-friendly fun before the engines rev.
Where: Cbus Super Stadium, Centreline Place, Robina
When: Saturday 18 October, Pit Party 9am–12pm | Monster Jam 1pm & 7pm
Cost: From $45 per person
More info and tickets here.
Entertainment For The 2025 Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 Has Been Announced
Image Credit: Gold Coast 500 | Supplied
The Gold Coast 500 is back, and this year might just be the biggest one to date. From 24–26 October, rev heads and music lovers alike can enjoy high-octane Supercars racing by day and world-class, multi-award-winning live acts by night, all in the heart of Surfers Paradise.
Grammy and Brit Award alumni Groove Armada headline Saturday night, while Australian DJ duo The Stafford Brothers and Brooke Evers kick things off on Friday, turning the Boost HQ zone into a festival-style party. It’s the ultimate mix of speed and beats you won’t want to miss.
Where: Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
When: Friday 24 October to Sunday 26 October
Cost: Various ticketing prices and packages
For more information, click 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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