Seasonal Events on the Gold Coast: Plan Your Stay Around These!
Looking for the perfect family getaway to the Gold Coast? Time your trip to a Gold Coast holiday park with some of the region’s best seasonal events. From outdoor concerts and beachside festivals to art trails and fireworks, there’s always something happening that the whole family can enjoy.
Summer (Dec–Feb
Carols on the Beach (mid-December)
Celebrate Christmas on the sand at Surfers Paradise with carols, fireworks and plenty of festive cheer. The beachfront setting is unforgettable, with space for prams and picnic rugs. It’s free and easy-going, perfect for little night owls.
HOTA ArtLab & Little ArtLab (first Friday of every month)
Kids dive into hands-on creativity at HOTA’s guided workshops, tinkering, painting and making. The sessions are indoor, air‑conditioned and welcoming for a range of ages. Parents can join in or relax nearby while the ideas flow.
Movies Under the Stars (September–April program)
Bring rugs, camp chairs and snacks for free outdoor movies across local parks and foreshores in Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise. The vibe is chilled and family‑centric with plenty of room to spread out. Arrive early for playground time before the film starts.
Autumn (Mar–May)
Gold Coast Film Festival (late April–mid May)
A citywide celebration of cinema featuring family sessions and short-film nights. Choose relaxed daytime screenings or early evening shows suited to kids and tweens. It’s a gentle way to introduce young ones to the big screen.
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets (year-round, Wed/Fri/Sat, 4–9pm)
Stroll the foreshore and browse stalls with crafts, gifts and street eats by the ocean. Flat pathways make it pram‑friendly and easy for little legs. Sunset views and buskers add to the low‑key family atmosphere.
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (late May)
Explore shiny superyachts, clever gadgets and interactive demos in a walkable village setting. Roving performers and kids areas keep young visitors entertained. It’s an all‑day outing with food options and shaded rest spots.
Winter (Jun–Aug)
Cooly Rocks On (early June)
Step back in time with classic cars, retro music and vintage markets along the streets of Coolangatta. Most attractions are free, colourful and very photo‑friendly. Families can dip in and out without needing a strict schedule.
SeaFire Fireworks (late May/June)
International pyrotechnic teams light up Surfers Paradise Beach with huge displays. It’s loud, bright and completely free, bring ear muffs for smaller kids. Arrive early to secure a sandy viewing spot.
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast (typically August)
Aerobatic teams and jet displays roar along the shoreline for a high‑energy day out. Families love the wide viewing areas and festive foreshore setup. Check annual dates and pack hats, water, sunscreen and ear protection.
Spring (Sep–Nov)
SWELL Sculpture Festival (mid‑September)
Currumbin Beach transforms into a giant outdoor gallery of playful, thought‑provoking sculptures. The trail is stroller‑friendly and encourages kids to look, point and wonder. Workshops and pop‑ups add easy hands‑on fun.
Gold Coast Show (late August)
A classic show day with rides, animal nurseries, wood‑chopping and fireworks at Broadwater Parklands. There’s space to roam, plenty of shade and attractions for all ages. It’s a feel‑good tradition families return to each year.
Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 (late October)
Supercars thunder through the city streets with grandstands, kids zones and live entertainment. Off‑track activities make it enjoyable even between races. Plan breaks for snacks and ear‑safe viewing for little ones.
Plan Your Stay
Staying at a holiday park like BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park puts you close to all these events while giving your family space to relax. After a big day out, cool off in the pool, let the kids loose on the playground, or ride the BIG4 Express train around the park. With dog‑friendly cabins, glamping tents, and family‑sized cabins, it’s the ideal base for memory‑making on the Gold Coast.