Best Gold Coast Events Winter 2021 Well, where to start? This winter, the Gold Coast calendar is packed full of exciting events that simply shouldn’t be missed.

These include FREE-to-attend outdoor festivals, plus the return of the huge annual Gold Coast Show.

The Queensland border is open and the following events all intend to go ahead COVID Safe under QLD Health regulations.

Most of these events didn’t take place last year (we all know why), so make sure not to miss out this winter.

Cooly Rocks On 2021

First up is Cooly Rocks On 2021, Australia’s biggest festival for all things nostalgia, retro and rock ’n’ roll. Enjoy a five-day throwback to the 50s, 60s and 70s at this FREE beachside festival in Coolangatta, which has now merged with VIVA Surfers Paradise.

The Cooly Rocks On Festival program includes a massive live music lineup, retro pageants, vintage markets and, of course, a must-see beachside display of over 700 classic cars and motorcycles.

You’d be crazy to miss it from June 9 to June 13.

Australian Open Bowls 2021

Australian Open Bowls, Australia’s biggest and richest bowls festival, returns for two weeks of bowls events right across the Gold Coast – not to be missed for diehard lawn bowls fans.

The main events are Singles, Pairs and Fours in a knockout format with a whopping total prize purse of $275,000. Host clubs include Broadbeach Bowls Club, Burleigh Heads Bowls Club, Club Helensvale, Club Robina, Coolangatta Bowls Club and more.

When, you ask? June 12 to June 25. Save the date.

Gold Coast Marathon 2021 – UPDATE: CANCELLED

Looking to test your endurance this winter? Gold Coast Marathon is coming for a full weekend in July with a range of long-distance runs for all ages and capabilities. You’ve got the 5km Fun Run, 10km Run, ASICS Half Marathon and the main 42km Village Roadshow Theme Parks Gold Coast Marathon – plus more – to choose from, all offering a scenic flat route passing the Gold Coast’s breath-taking surf beaches.

Not a runner? No worries – you can always come along to spectate and cheer.

Enter now (before June) and be on the Gold Coast for July 3 and July 4.

Kokoda Challenge 2021

Here’s a challenge for you hikers and bushwalkers – Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge 2021, its 16th event, is back with another 96km cross-country trail through Firth Park in Mudgeeraba, inspired by the famous Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea.

The trek takes place over two days with a completion time of 39 hours, open to groups and bushwalkers looking to push themselves and test their limits. First time? Then give the 48km or 17km trek a burl.

All raised funds will also go to Kokoda Youth Foundation, which runs life-changing programs for teens all over Australia.

Kokoda Challenge Gold Coast will take place on July 17 and July 18.

BLEACH Festival 2021

Celebrate culture, heritage and expression this August – BLEACH Festival is gearing up for another 11-day program of live music, theatre, cabaret, dance, circus and live art on stunning Currumbin Beach.

Showcasing and celebrating regional talent, BLEACH* Festival offers both free and ticketed performances, sandwiched between unmissable first and last night ceremonies. In addition are artist workshops, Sparks at BLEACH (storytelling and dancing events) and the BLEACH Bar, for all your festival refreshments.

Just make sure you’re in Currumbin from August 12 to August 22.

Gold Coast Show 2021

Last but not least, Gold Coast Show is the event to catch this winter if you want to experience what the Gold Coast is all about.

Live music and entertainment, animals, dog shows and equestrian competitions, good food, market stalls, kids activities, fireworks and more – Gold Coast Show simply has it all for an excitement-packed three-day weekend in the Southport Broadwater Parklands that, this year, will mark its momentous 114th event.

If it’s not in your calendar yet, get Gold Coast Show 2021 in there now for August 27 to August 29.

Don’t Miss Out – Swell Resort Burleigh Heads Accommodation

Excited about any of the above? Make sure you’re ready for winter by booking our Burleigh Heads accommodation at Swell Resort.

The best way to enjoy the Gold Coast and everything it has to offer is by staying in a central location, and it doesn’t get more central than Burleigh Heads Gold Coast – halfway between bustling Surfers Paradise and vibrant Coolangatta Beach.

Our Burleigh Heads apartments are just a short stroll from Burleigh Heads Beach, comprising 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully self-contained holiday apartments with access to resort facilities that include a heated outdoor pool and spa, gym, full-size tennis court, yoga room and barbecue.

On a budget this winter? We have Standard and Superior (renovated) Burleigh apartments – all boasting spacious living areas, full kitchens, free WiFi, Foxtel and large private balconies.

Book directly to save. Just visit Swell Resort Burleigh Heads Accommodation.