Gold Coast Events 2026

Just over an hour down the M1 – or a straightforward train-and-tram trip via Helensvale – the Gold Coast is an easy weekend away that doesn’t feel like one. However, beyond the beach and hinterland escapes, there’s a line-up of events happening in the latter half of 2026 that are worth checking out.

Here’s what’s on the calendar …

Groundwater Country Music Festival 

Australia’s biggest country music beach party, Groundwater Country Music Festival, is taking over Broadbeach from Friday October 16 to Sunday October 18. With a stacked lineup including Kasey Chambers, Kaylee Bell, The Wolfe Brothers, Beccy Cole and James Blundell, this free, family-friendly event is one to have in your calendar. Where to stay: The Star Gold Coast.

Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 

Start your engines and hit the track: the supercars are returning to Surfers Paradise for the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500. Expect an unforgettable weekend of thrills, beachside energy and non-stop entertainment from Friday October 23 to Sunday October 25. Where to stay: Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise. 

Rugby League World Cup

Get ready to don your team’s colours, grab your mates and hit the stands for The Rugby League World Cup. Head to Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast on Saturday October 31 and don’t miss the live action, with Fiji, New Zealand, France and Papua New Guinea all featuring across one massive triple-header. Tickets and more event information can be found here. Where to stay: Quest Robina. 

FIM World Supercross Championships

Ready to go full throttle? Experience some of the world’s most elite international athletes on Saturday November 21 as they push the limits of speed at the FIM World Supercross Championships. Expect a night of heart-racing adrenaline as the world’s best, including Cooper Webb, Max Anstie, Jason Anderson and more compete for the title of World Supercross Champion. Last year’s event sold out – make sure to secure your tickets early here. 

T20 Australia v England 

Don’t miss out as the best cricket players from Australia and England take to the pitch for the second men’s T20 international match. The event will be held at the People First Stadium in Carrara on Tuesday November 24, with general public tickets currently on sale here. Where to stay: RACV Royal Pines Resort. 

This article was written in partnership with our friends at Experience Gold Coast.

Image credit 1 and 5: Mackenzie Sweetnam Photography