In 2026, Gold Coast events take centre stage, and the calendar can get crowded. A quick shortlist helps you skip the noise and lock in the events that suit your trip.
This guide keeps it simple with standout moments within 40 minutes of Broadbeach. If you are searching for what’s on the Gold Coast or building a list of Gold Coast things to do, this is a strong place to start.
With Opus Broadbeach nearby, it is easy to get out to the action and still keep your downtime.
Itinerary Highlights: Gold Coast Events For 2026
Start the year with confidence. Many people search “best thing to do in Gold Coast” when they want a quick plan, so these are the dates that tend to anchor a weekend.
The Taste Festival
23 to 26 January, this event brings street food, drinks, and live entertainment. It is hosted at Currumbin RSL, which works well for a casual night out.
Australia Day at Sanctuary Cove
26 January brings family-friendly festivities and live music to the marina precinct. A relaxed way to spend a Gold Coast public holiday in a great waterfront setting.
Big Energy Events With Crowd Buzz
These larger productions bring the noise, the crowds, and the spectacle. They are popular for a reason, and they are all within easy reach.
Laneway Festival Gold Coast
Happening on 7 February at Southport Sharks, this indie music favourite runs as a one-day hit of live sets and festival energy.
Gold Coast 500
Set for 23 to 25 October on the Surfers Paradise street circuit, this V8 Supercars event turns the coast into a high-octane weekend. It is one of the biggest Surfers Paradise events on the annual schedule.
Pan Pacific Masters Games
From 6 to 15 November, this multi-sport event brings thousands to venues across the Gold Coast for competition, camaraderie, and plenty happening around town.
Cooly Rocks On
Happening from 3 to 7 June in Coolangatta, this is a celebration of vintage cars, rock and roll, and retro culture.
Gold Coast Marathon
Scheduled for 4 to 5 July in Southport, this is a must-do for runners, walkers, and cheer squads alike.
Blues on Broadbeach
14 to 17 May, right in Broadbeach. Live blues music, alfresco dining, and walkable fun, all in one spot.
Easy Local Wins That Keep It Relaxed
For travellers who prefer spontaneity and slow mornings, these picks keep the vibe high without turning the day into a mission. They are also handy for anyone looking for things to do at the Gold Coast between major ticketed events.
Broadbeach Markets
A staple for locals and visitors alike, these beachfront markets are ideal for a casual browse before breakfast or a dip. It is a go-to for anyone planning markets in Broadbeach in the morning.
HOTA Exhibitions & Performances
Year-round programming means you can usually find something interesting at the Home of the Arts. Check schedules for rotating exhibits, family sessions, and performances at HOTA Gold Coast.
SWELL Sculpture Festival
11 to 20 September at Currumbin Beach. This open-air art experience lets you take in thought-provoking installations with sand underfoot.
BLEACH Arts Festival
1 to 11 October across multiple coastal venues, this multi-disciplinary arts festival suits travellers who like their events with a creative edge.
The Taste Festival (casual option)
Not every visit needs a full night out. Pop by during Taste for a spontaneous bite and a laid-back summer atmosphere.
Family Friendly Picks For All Ages
Travelling with the crew? These are easy wins for a Gold Coast family holiday, with options that work across different ages and energy levels.
Gold Coast Film Festival
22 April to 3 May across HOTA and partner venues. It includes family screenings and kids workshops during school holiday dates, which suit family activities Gold Coast.
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
21 to 24 May. Beyond boats, think entertainment, food, and experiences that keep the day moving.
Australia Day at Sanctuary Cove
(Also listed above.) Worth highlighting here again for its family-friendly programming and easy access around the marina.
Gold Coast Running Festival
26 April in Robina. Participate or spectate; it is a lively all-ages community event.
Pho3nix Gold Coast Triathlon
11 to 12 April in Southport. Fun runs and junior races make the weekend approachable for families.
Supanova Comic Con & Gaming
11 to 12 April at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Broadbeach. A must-visit for pop culture lovers, and a simple outing if you want to keep travel time short.
AACTA Festival and Awards
4 to 8 February at HOTA. It brings screenings, panels, and red carpet energy around the precinct.
Practical Tips To Enjoy Events Without Stress
A little planning goes a long way. January events are best tackled early morning or after 4 pm, when the heat eases. Pack water, sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket for pop-up summer storms.
Getting to Bundall, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach during Gold Coast events can test your patience. Avoid parking stress with light rail, rideshare, or walking if you are staying nearby. For events at HOTA or Southport, pre-booking parking or using public transport is the smart move.
Know your tickets. Some events are free to enter, while others should be booked in advance. Keep an indoor backup plan in mind in case the weather changes. These small details help your Gold Coast activity planning, and they make it easier to fit more activities in Gold Coast into the same stay.
Your Year of Gold Coast Events in One Place
2026 promises variety, colour, and calendar highlights across every season. Plan the bigger weekends early, then leave space for beach time, Gold Coast markets, and a few slower mornings.
A little planning now means fewer missed opportunities later, and more time spent enjoying the best thing to do in Gold Coast style.
Broadbeach Events, Right on Your Doorstep
When the calendar is packed, staying central makes everything easier. Opus Broadbeach places you close to live music, food festivals, and beachfront entertainment, with room to slow down once the crowds fade.
Head out when the next event starts, then come home to self-contained comfort and a quieter pace between plans. For a quick weekend or a longer run of bookings, Opus Broadbeach keeps Broadbeach within easy reach.
Book direct for the best available rates and settle into a relaxed base between plans.
Image Credit: Gold Coast Running Festival