The Sunshine Coast is as dreamy as it sounds – stunning beaches, lush hinterlands, vibrant cultural scene. What's not to love? It gets even better with an incredible lineup of festivals and events throughout the year!
While you're here, don't forget to check out the Sunshine Coast cruises! We have an awesome selection, including Noosa River cruises, fancy sunset cruises, exciting wildlife-spotting adventures, world-famous everglades cruises or insightful Indigenous experiences on the water. Cruising is among the best activities in Noosa, MoolooIaba and other parts of Sunshine Coast.
Now, check out our top five must-see Sunshine Coast events that make the region even more magical. If you're around when these are happening, don't miss out on the fun!
Noosa Surfing Festival
Happening in: March
Where: Noosa Heads
The Noosa Festival of Surfing has been celebrating surf culture for the past three decades. This legendary festival attracts top competitors and thousands of spectators each year. Beyond the surf competitions, the week-long event features surf culture exhibitions, film screenings and fun beachside parties.
Big Pineapple Festival
Happening in: May
Where: The Big Pineapple, Woombye
Yes, there's an actual giant pineapple in Sunshine Coast, and yes, you need to see it at least once in your life. And what better reason to visit than the Big Pineapple Festival? This festival presents an incredible lineup of Australian and international artists spanning multiple genres. Enjoy an unforgettable experience with incredible performances, great food and, of course, amazing atmosphere! Put your dancing shoes on and bring your friends!
Queensland Garden Expo
Happening in: July
Where: Nambour Showgrounds
Plant parents, this is for you! The Queensland Garden Expo is a must-visit for gardening enthusiasts! It has got everything from plant sales to expert advice. With over 360 exhibitors, this event showcases stunning displays, gardening tools and workshops led by industry professionals. This expo is the perfect place to get inspired, learn something new from the pros and take home some greenery.
Horizon festival
Happening in: August
Where: Various locations across the Sunshine Coast
The Horizon Festival is a 10-day celebration of art, music and culture! Over these days, you'll be treated to live performances, art installations, music, dance and interactive workshops. It's a fantastic opportunity to enjoy works from artists across Australia and beyond. Expect a mix of local and international talent bringing their A-game to inspire and entertain!
Noosa Triathlon
Happening in: Late October to early November
Where: Noosa Heads
The Noosa Triathlon is one of the world's most significant and exciting triathlon events! Spanning five days, it draws thousands of athletes and spectators who come to witness (or take part in!) the swim, bike, and run through some of the Noosa's breathtaking landscapes. Even if you're not competing, it's still an event worth attending. The high-energy crowd, live entertainment and dynamic atmosphere make it just as fun to watch from the sidelines.
Attending a local event is always a great way to experience a new city. So, mark your calendars and make the most of these incredible festivals while enjoying the best Sunshine Coast has to offer!
And hey, while you’re at it, don’t miss out on a Sunshine Coast cruise! It’s hands-down the best way to experience the region. You know who’s got the best cruise? Well... you’ll just have to hop on board and see for yourself!
While you're here, don't forget to check out the Sunshine Coast cruises! We have an awesome selection, including Noosa River cruises, fancy sunset cruises, exciting wildlife-spotting adventures, world-famous everglades cruises or insightful Indigenous experiences on the water. Cruising is among the best activities in Noosa, MoolooIaba and other parts of Sunshine Coast.
Now, check out our top five must-see Sunshine Coast events that make the region even more magical. If you're around when these are happening, don't miss out on the fun!
Noosa Surfing Festival
Happening in: March
Where: Noosa Heads
The Noosa Festival of Surfing has been celebrating surf culture for the past three decades. This legendary festival attracts top competitors and thousands of spectators each year. Beyond the surf competitions, the week-long event features surf culture exhibitions, film screenings and fun beachside parties.
Big Pineapple Festival
Happening in: May
Where: The Big Pineapple, Woombye
Yes, there's an actual giant pineapple in Sunshine Coast, and yes, you need to see it at least once in your life. And what better reason to visit than the Big Pineapple Festival? This festival presents an incredible lineup of Australian and international artists spanning multiple genres. Enjoy an unforgettable experience with incredible performances, great food and, of course, amazing atmosphere! Put your dancing shoes on and bring your friends!
Queensland Garden Expo
Happening in: July
Where: Nambour Showgrounds
Plant parents, this is for you! The Queensland Garden Expo is a must-visit for gardening enthusiasts! It has got everything from plant sales to expert advice. With over 360 exhibitors, this event showcases stunning displays, gardening tools and workshops led by industry professionals. This expo is the perfect place to get inspired, learn something new from the pros and take home some greenery.
Horizon festival
Happening in: August
Where: Various locations across the Sunshine Coast
The Horizon Festival is a 10-day celebration of art, music and culture! Over these days, you'll be treated to live performances, art installations, music, dance and interactive workshops. It's a fantastic opportunity to enjoy works from artists across Australia and beyond. Expect a mix of local and international talent bringing their A-game to inspire and entertain!
Noosa Triathlon
Happening in: Late October to early November
Where: Noosa Heads
The Noosa Triathlon is one of the world's most significant and exciting triathlon events! Spanning five days, it draws thousands of athletes and spectators who come to witness (or take part in!) the swim, bike, and run through some of the Noosa's breathtaking landscapes. Even if you're not competing, it's still an event worth attending. The high-energy crowd, live entertainment and dynamic atmosphere make it just as fun to watch from the sidelines.
Attending a local event is always a great way to experience a new city. So, mark your calendars and make the most of these incredible festivals while enjoying the best Sunshine Coast has to offer!
And hey, while you’re at it, don’t miss out on a Sunshine Coast cruise! It’s hands-down the best way to experience the region. You know who’s got the best cruise? Well... you’ll just have to hop on board and see for yourself!
