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Work is Play
You're growing when you're learning. You're growing even more when there's fun to be had. Join a local class or workshop, meet new friends, enjoy a laugh or two and learn something new.
classes & workshops
- Free Event
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From now until 24 Mar 2027
Storyfest Gold Coast
Do you have a passion for literature?Would you like to see some of the most highly acclaimed authors in the world? At Somerset Storyfest you can immerse yourself in literature!It all kicks off with the Prologue Party - fun for the whole family - and for the adults, come along to either the Literary Lunch on the Tuesday or alternatively, The Craig Bassingthwaighte Long Table, held as the closing event for the Festival on the Wednesday evening.Tickets will be available for purchase online four weeks before the commencement of Storyfest Gold Coast. Many sessions have limited numbers, so book early to avoid disappointment.
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From now until 16 May 2027
Cooly Classic Ocean Swim Festival
Swimmers have a rare opportunity to swim a course with some of Australia’s most revered surf breaks as your backdrop – Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta and Kirra.There are four distances, from 1km to 5km, but it’s always the 2.0km Cooly Classic from Snapper Rocks to Kirra Beach which attracts the masses.Your start line, Snapper Rocks, is one of the world’s most famous surf breaks. Then, your course is a straight line to Kirra Beach, passing Rainbow Bay, Greenmount and Coolangatta Beaches as you swim.Throughout the week, there’ll be a range of small group sessions and clinics with guest coaches. This is a chance to receive specialist coaching and also swim with local squads at some of the Gold Coast’s favourite open-water training locations.
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From now until 11 Dec 2026
Gold Coast Hinterland Nature Adventures for Kids (School Holidays)
Birdwings Forest School offers Kids Nature Adventures in the Gold Coast Hinterland, providing visiting families with a unique, nature-based day camp experience for children aged 5–12 years. Set across bushland, rainforest, creeks, and open spaces, the program invites participants to spend the day exploring, creating, and connecting with nature.Guided by experienced nature mentors and forest school leaders, participants engage in bushcrafts, handcrafts, creek play, and campfire cooking within a natural adventure playground. With no gear required, this fully facilitated experience offers a meaningful alternative to theme parks and typical holiday activities.Located in Guanaba, near Mt Tamborine, it's ideal for families visiting the Gold Coast. While children are immersed in nature, parents can enjoy exploring the surrounding hinterland. Bookings are essential for this small-group experience.
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From now until 26 Sep 2026
Kids Take Over Festival 2026
You're invited into a world of imagination where things are wonderfully strange and delightfully unexpected.Dive into a vibrant program of performances, free daily activities, immersive installations, and hands-on workshops. With something new to discover every day, one visit is never enough… well, not for a true adventurer!This is your chance to imagine, explore, and play.
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26 Sep 2026
Movies Under the Stars: The Magic Faraway Tree, Ormeau - Free
The City of Gold Coast Movies Under the Stars program is free, family-friendly fun on offer from September 2026 through to April 2027 right across the city.Gather your family and friends, pack a picnic or take advantage of delicious food options available in the local area.*** TICKETS NOT REQUIRED – JUST SHOW UP! ***Tickets are not required, however you can ‘reserve a spot’ on Eventbrite to sign up for event updates/reminders.Event date: Saturday, 26 September 2026Location: Pimpama River Parklands, OrmeauEvent starts at 4.30pm with kids' activities, face painting and mouth-watering eats from onsite food trucks. 😋Then stay for the movie starting at 6.30pm!Movie: The Magic Faraway TreeA modern family relocates to the countryside where the children discover a magical tree with eccentric residents. They are transported to fantastical lands, rekindling their family bond through adventures.Rating: G | Length: 110 minsThis Movies Under the Stars event is proudly brought to the Division 01 community by Cr Mark Hammel. @MarkHammelDiv1If weather is uncertain - or for more information including updates - please see the Spectrum or Facebook Event page.#GCMoviesUnderTheStars
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06 Oct 2026
Messy Play at Historic Rivermill: Halloween Disney and Friends
Historic Rivermill on the banks of the Coomera River in the Gold Coast Hinterland hosts Messy Play : Halloween Disney and Friends friends , a sensory play session for young children presented by Gumtree Kids.Children will have the opportunity to explore a variety of sensory and messy play stations designed to encourage creativity, imagination, learning, and play. Their sessions are child-led, allowing little ones to explore at their own pace in a safe and welcoming environment.Suitable for children aged six months to five years, with activities tailored to a range of developmental stages.
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09 Oct 2026
80s and 90s Singalong Paint and Sip by Paint Juicy in Nerang
Paint Juicy hosts a 1980s and 1990s singalong paint and sip session in Nerang on the Gold Coast. Guests gather for an evening of guided painting set to 1980s and 1990s music, with a host artist leading the group through a step by step canvas while a curated playlist runs through the room. Painters sing along to the bangers, paint at their own pace and leave with a finished canvas worth keeping.No painting experience is needed. All materials including canvas, paints, easel, brushes and aprons are supplied. Natural breaks between layers give everyone time to grab a drink, take photos and catch their breath before the next singalong moment. The format suits adults after a more memorable night out than a standard dinner or drinks, and it is a popular pick for hens nights, birthdays and work groups.Paint Juicy is a fully mobile paint and sip experience travelling across Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. The brand has hosted more than forty two thousand guests and has won the Best of Queensland Experience award every year since 2022. Hosts are warm and entertaining, the soundtrack is properly curated and the focus is on real entertainment rather than silent painting.
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09 Oct 2026 (Monthly)
Art Explorers
Art ExplorersJoin us for Art Explorers – HOTA Gallery tours for little people with big imaginations. These playful sessions invite children and their parents/carers to connect with art through movement and storytelling, encouraging curiosity, creativity and fun! This program is recommended for children aged 2-5. Children must be accompanied by an adult carer and cannot be left unsupervised at any time. Thank you for your understanding.
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From now until 11 Oct 2026
Gold Coast Open House
Explore your city! The Gold Coast Architecture Festival is a celebration of the urban landscape, highlighting the extraordinary local buildings, places and spaces that shape the city and lifestyle.With a program of architect-led building tours, self-guided explorations, and insightful panel discussions, you’ll have the chance to delve deep into the design stories behind some of the Gold Coast’s most iconic landmarks.Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a curious local, or someone who loves discovering hidden gems, Gold Coast Open House offers a fresh perspective on the city. From sleek modern towers to heritage gems, beachfront spaces to cultural precincts, there’s something for everyone.Mark your calendars and come along on a journey of discovery and be a part of the conversation about how design shapes the identity of this unique city.
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18 Oct 2026 - 23 Oct 2026
The Emotional Fitness Retreat
The Emotional Fitness Retreat is an inclusive six-day, five-night wellbeing experience held in the peaceful Gold Coast Hinterland.Designed for adults from all walks of life, the retreat welcomes anyone navigating personal challenges, change, stress or difficult circumstances, as well as those seeking greater emotional awareness and healthier ways to respond to life's demands.Hosted by respected emotional fitness author and speaker Cynthia Morton, the program provides practical tools and meaningful insights to help guests better understand their emotions, strengthen their coping skills and build greater emotional resilience.Throughout the retreat, experienced facilitators offer engaging workshops, restorative activities, gentle movement, optional morning meditation and opportunities for reflection, laughter and genuine human connection. The program is guided by the values of compassion, respect, kindness, inclusion and non-judgement, creating an environment where every guest is treated with dignity and care.Guests stay in beautiful private villa accommodation surrounded by nature and enjoy thoughtfully prepared, nourishing meals throughout each day. The carefully balanced program also allows time to rest, recharge and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.The Emotional Fitness Retreat offers a supportive place to pause, reconnect and return home with practical tools, renewed hope and a stronger foundation for navigating life.
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21 Oct 2026
Messy Play at Historic Rivermill : Halloween
Historic Rivermill on the banks of the Coomera River in the Gold Coast Hinterland hosts Messy Play: Halloween , a sensory play session for young children presented by Gumtree Kids.Designed to encourage creativity, imagination, learning, and playLittle ones dig, scoop and explore themed messy play stations at their own pace, with materials that are all safe to taste.Messy play experiences are suitable for children aged six months to five years, with activities tailored to a range of developmental stages.
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23 Oct 2026
Festival of Small Halls Spring Tour 2026 - Austinville
Mt Nimmel Hall is the meeting house for folk living in Austinville, a secluded lush valley in the Gold Coast hinterland, nestled between Mudgeeraba and Springbrook National Park's world-heritage listed Gondwana Rainforest.Mt Nimmel Hall serves as the social focal point for the close-knit Austinville community. Built in the 1930s by volunteer locals, the hall has a charming old-world rustic feel and continues to be very much loved by the Austinville community.Fun fact – the Austinville community are a quirky lot – they have their own "Republic" anthem which is sung with gusto prior to all hall community events.Festival of Small Halls returns to Austinville with Nicole Murray and Old Man Luedecke.
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31 Oct 2026
Free Yoga Day: Spring into Joy
As the days grow brighter and spring fills the air with fresh energy, they're opening the doors for a beautiful day of free yoga, meditation, music, wisdom and community. Come and experience the many ways yoga can bring more joy, connection and balance into everyday life.Move your body, awaken your energy, find moments of stillness, explore yoga wisdom, sing along with live kirtan, enjoy a nourishing community lunch and simply spend some time in good company. Come for one session, stay for a few, or make a whole day of it!What's on - Yoga asana classes for all levels - Guided meditation - Chi Kung and energy practices - Wisdom talk - Live kirtan (mantra meditation) - Yin yoga and mantra sound bath - Complimentary chai and nourishing nibbles - Plant-based community lunch (AUD10, pre-paid booking required) - A welcoming, heart-led community space - Special membership and class pass offers - One day only in-store specialsCome and Spring into Joy In a world that can feel busy and overwhelming, it's good to have a place where you can slow down, breathe, move, sing, share a meal and remember what really matters. Come as you are. Leave a little lighter.
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03 Nov 2026
Melbourne Cup at Garden Kitchen & Bar (Booths)
INCLUSIONSTwo premium shared plattersThree-hour beverage packageLive entertainmentFashions off the FieldMC Carla ToomaWaited service for duration of eventPRICE$2,200 per booth (Max 15 guests)*Includes Eventbrite booking feesWHEN11:30am - 2:30pmTerms & conditionsSubject to availability, change or cancellation. Dietary options will be available on prior request, however additional dietaries will not be able to be accommodated on the day without prior notice. Beverage selection subject to availability and may change without notice. The Star Club Member discounts do not apply. Casino Dollars cannot be used for this event. Booking cancellations must be made at least 7 days prior to the event (by 12.00pm on Tuesday, 27th October 2026). No refund will be provided to no-shows or cancellations made within 7 days prior to the event. Booking cancellations made after the event is sold out will not be refunded. The Star practices the responsible service of alcohol.SHARED PLATTERSPlatter 1Chilled prawn rolls, King prawn remoulade, cos lettuce, Marie RoseCharcuterie platterHouse-made focaccia, smoked hummusPlatter 2Smashed burger slider, special sauce, dill pickle, cheeseLamb koftas, chimichurri , labnaTHREE-HOUR BEVERAGE PACKAGESPARKLINGDomaine Chandon | Yarra Valley, VICWHITE WINEAquilani Pinot Grigio | Friuli-Venezia, ItalyCloud St Chardonnay | Multi Regional, VIC821 Sauvignon Blanc | Marlborough, NZROSERameau | Provence, FranceRED WINEWolf Blass ‘Blass’ Shiraz | Multi Regional, SACloud St Pinot Noir | Multi Regional, VICWynns ‘Gables’ Cabernet Sauvignon | Coonawarra SABEERSHahn Super DryXXXX GoldStone and Wood Pacific AleNON-ALCOHOLICHeineken ZeroAssorted soft drinks and juices
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03 Nov 2026
Melbourne Cup at Sports Bar (Booths), The Star Gold Coast
Level up your race day experience by booking a private booth at Sports Bar, granting a front-seat view of the megascreen.INCLUSIONSPrivate booth for up to 10 guests (min 5 guests)Three-hour booth hire$700 food & beverage tabBranded merchFriendly wait service for the duration of your booth hireLive & loud, surround soundState of the art TAB facilitiesPlease note: This is an 18+ event and this venue is located on our Main Gaming Floor.WHENTuesday, 3 November 2026Booth from 12:00pm - 3:00pmWHERESports Bar | Casino Level, The Star Gold CoastPRICE$1,200.00 per booth (fits up to 10 guests)Includes Eventbrite booking feesTerms & conditionsSubject to availability, change or cancellation. Dietary options will be available on prior request, however additional dietaries will not be able to be accommodated on the day without prior notice. Beverage selection subject to availability and may change without notice. The Star Club Member discounts do not apply. Casino Dollars cannot be used for this event. Booking cancellations must be made at least 7 days prior to the event (by 12.00pm on Tuesday, 27th October 2026). No refund will be provided to no-shows or cancellations made within 7 days prior to the event. Booking cancellations made after the event is sold out will not be refunded. The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol.
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21 Nov 2026
A Handmade Christmas Festival
A festive day out on the Gold Coast celebrates talented local makers and everything handmade.What guests will find: handmade market stalls featuring earrings, candles, clothing, bags, Blind Date with a Book, homewares, gifts, and so much more. Delicious food vendors and sweet treats. Learn to line dance with fun beginner-friendly sessions. Sit and sing-a-long Christmas carols. Face painting for the kids. Christmas craft activities for children.This event celebrates all things handmade, not just yarn. Guests are welcome to come along to support local artisans, discover one-of-a-kind treasures, and enjoy a festive community atmosphere at the best Christmas market on the Gold Coast.Family and friends are welcome, kicking off the Christmas season by shopping local and supporting handmade.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.