As the summer heat fades, autumn brings a refreshing change to the Gold Coast, along with a calendar full of exciting events. From cultural festivals and live music to thrilling sports and family-friendly entertainment, there’s plenty to experience during the season.
Whether you’re a film buff, a racing fan, or simply looking for something different to enjoy, these annual events showcase the best of the region from March to May. For guests of Southport Motel, we’ve curated a selection of recurring events happening within a 20-kilometer radius of Southport during this period.
1. Gold Coast Film Festival
Dates: Mid to Late April annually
Location: Home of the Arts (HOTA), Surfers Paradise
The Gold Coast Film Festival is an annual celebration of film and filmmaking, showcasing a diverse program of Australian and international feature films, short films, workshops, and seminars. Held at HOTA in Surfers Paradise, the festival aims to promote the dynamic and creative culture of the Gold Coast and encourage the next generation of filmmakers.
2. Gold Coast Art Festival
Dates: March annually
Location: Various venues across the Gold Coast
Established in 2010, the Gold Coast Art Festival is an annual event that celebrates local and international artists. The festival features a month-long program of art exhibitions, workshops, and interactive installations, engaging both artists and art enthusiasts
3. Gold Coast Guineas
Dates: Early May annually
Location: Gold Coast Turf Club, Surfers Paradise
The Gold Coast Guineas is a prestigious Group 3 Thoroughbred horse race for three-year-olds, held annually at the Gold Coast Racecourse. Covering a distance of 1,200 meters, this event is a highlight of the Queensland Winter Racing Carnival and attracts horse racing enthusiasts from across the country.
4. Supanova Comic Con & Gaming Expo
Dates: April annually
Location: Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach
Supanova is Australia’s premier pop culture event, celebrating all things science fiction, fantasy, comic books, anime, gaming, and collectibles. The expo features celebrity guest appearances, panel discussions, cosplay competitions, and a vast array of merchandise stalls, offering a vibrant experience for fans and enthusiasts.
5. Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival
Dates: Mid-May annually
Location: Various venues in Broadbeach
The Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival is a free annual event that showcases a lineup of renowned blues artists across multiple stages in Broadbeach. The festival attracts music lovers from all over, offering a unique blend of blues music in a vibrant atmosphere.
6. Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Dates: Late May annually
Location: Sanctuary Cove
One of the biggest marine lifestyle events in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show showcases luxury yachts, boats, and marine accessories. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or just curious, it’s a great event with plenty of exhibits, live entertainment, and food.
7. Gold Coast Turf Club Easter Races
Dates: April annually
Location: Cbus Super Stadium, Robina
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to have fun, the Gold Coast Running Festival offers a range of distances, including a half marathon, 10km, 5km, and a 2.5km kids’ run. With a scenic course and a friendly community vibe, it’s a great way to stay active.
8. Gold Coast Running Festival
Dates: April annually
Location: Cbus Super Stadium, Robina
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to have fun, the Gold Coast Running Festival offers a range of distances, including a half marathon, 10km, 5km, and a 2.5km kids’ run. With a scenic course and a friendly community vibe, it’s a great way to stay active.
Autumn on the Gold Coast is packed with annual events for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re into movies, art, horse racing, pop culture, or live music, there’s plenty to see and do.
Southport is a great base to explore these events, with many happening close by. Plan your stay and make the most of the season. Book direct with Southport Motel to get the best rates and save!
