As the temperatures cool down, the Sunshine Coast is heating up with a lineup of exciting autumn and winter festivals, markets, and events you’ll want to add to your calendar. From cosy twilight markets to cultural celebrations and food festivals, there’s something for everyone this season.
Whether you’re chasing family-friendly fun over the school holidays or just looking to embrace the cooler months with some local adventures, read on for the must-attend events happening across the Sunshine Coast this winter.
Queensland Garden Show
Plant lovers, mark your calendars—the Queensland Garden Show is blooming back into Nambour this weekend (Friday 11 July to Sunday 13 July), and it’s the ultimate outing for green thumbs and garden newbies alike. With more than 360 exhibitors, 100+ expert-led presentations, and up to 60,000 plants sold each day (so that's 180,000+ plants over three days), this is the plant party of the season.
Wander through six buzzing stages with live demos, hit up the Cook’s Garden stage for foodie inspo, stop by the on-site Plant Clinic for all your leafy questions, and soak in the beauty of the Giant Kitchen Garden. Plus, the Living Backyard zone is packed with practical tips to help you turn your patch into a thriving wildlife haven. With 40,000+ visitors expected and clear skies on the forecast, this is shaping up to be one of the biggest years yet—don’t sleep on it.
When: Friday 11 July to Sunday 13 July
Where: Nambour Showgrounds, Nambour
More information and tickets available here.
The Curated Plate Festival
The Curated Plate is back this July, bringing 10 days of drool-worthy food and drink celebrations to the Sunshine Coast. This home-grown festival showcases the best local produce, chefs and natural backdrops–from coastal bites to hinterland feasts. Don’t miss the Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival, where Sunshine Coast legends like Rice Boi, Spirit House, and The Tamarind come together at the stunning Spicers Tamarind Retreat for a flavour-packed afternoon of Asian cuisine, rainforest vibes, and live tunes.
Got little ones in tow? Head to Picnic on Kings at Kings Beach Amphitheatre for a fun-filled family day starring none other than Bluey and Bingo, with interactive zones to keep everyone happy. Whether you're a seasoned food expert or just here for the vibes, there’s something tasty waiting for you at every turn.
When: Friday 25 July to Sunday 3 August
Where: Across multiple locations
Explore the program here
Noosa Alive! Festival
Noosa Alive! is back in 2025 for its 23rd year, bringing ten magical days of music, theatre, art, food, and family-friendly fun to the stunning shores of Noosa. The diverse program celebrates everything from comedy and ballet to literary talks and culinary delights. The full lineup is yet to be announced, but trust us, it's worth the wait.
When: Friday 18 July to Sunday 27 July
Where: Various Noosa locations yet to be announced
Be the first to hear about the 2025 program.
Australian Wearable Art Festival
In a local celebration of fashion-meets-art, the Australian Wearable Art Festival returns in 2025 for its fifth and most immersive event yet. Expect bold new themes, dazzling creations on a 27-metre runway, and the debut of a Friday matinee show. With the addition of a Friday matinee, hands-on workshops, and a captivating gallery exhibition, this is your invitation to experience wearable art like never before.
When: Friday 8 August to Saturday 9 August
Where: 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina
Buy tickets here
Looking for more Sunshine Coast content?
- Start wanderlusting after Noosa's prettiest accommodation.
- Book the ultimate staycay at the Sunshine Coast’s best Airbnbs.
- Check out the Sunshine Coast's best restaurants right now.
Main image credit: Noosa Beach | Supplied
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