Gold Coast Events In February 2026
Quick Summary:
February is the Gold Coast’s sweet spot month. Late summer energy without the school holiday chaos.
- Warm water, long evenings and better availability across events, dining and attractions.
- The calendar stays busy, but crowds are thinner and queues are shorter than January.
- It is ideal for mixing beach time, major events and reliable night plans.
February delivers the Gold Coast at its most balanced. It is still summer, but the frantic edge has softened. Locals plan early starts, shaded afternoons and one strong night anchor that works whether it is humid or a storm rolls through.
This guide breaks down exactly what is on in February 2026, plus how to plan your days around the heat and occasional storm cells.
Best Things To Do on the Gold Coast in February
- Experience the AACTA Festival at HOTA (Wed 4 to Sun 8 Feb) for premieres, talks, screenings and awards week buzz
- Go big at Laneway Festival (Sat 7 Feb) at Southport Sharks
- Lock in Dreamworld Night Market on Friday and Saturday nights (6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 Feb)
- Catch OneRepublic at HOTA (Wed 11 Feb) for a major summer gig night
- Watch elite surf at the World Club Championship (Fri 13 to Sun 15 Feb) at Snapper Rocks
- See the Ken Done: No Rules exhibition before it closes on Sun 15 Feb
- Spend five days on the sand at the Gold Coast Open (Wed 18 to Sun 22 Feb) at Burleigh Hill
- Book a guaranteed, fully indoor headline night out at Dracula’s, perfect for humid nights or summer storms
The Big February 2026 Events Calendar
AACTA Festival (4 to 8 February) at HOTA
If you want a week where the Gold Coast feels like Australia’s screen capital, this is it. The AACTA Festival runs Wednesday to Sunday, anchored at HOTA, Home of the Arts, with premieres, talks, screenings and awards week energy across the precinct.
Laneway Festival (7 February) at Southport Sharks
Laneway lands on the Gold Coast on Saturday 7 February 2026, turning Southport Sharks into a full day music mission. Plan transport early and expect peak demand around the venue.
Dreamworld Night Market (Every Friday and Saturday in February)
A reliable “what are we doing tonight?” answer, especially with visitors. February dates include 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28 Feb. Food trucks, live music and selected rides make it an easy summer evening plan.
OneRepublic at HOTA (11 February)
A proper midweek gig night. OneRepublic bring the Sweet Escape Tour to HOTA on Wednesday 11 February, delivering one of the biggest single night concerts of the month.
World Club Championship (13 to 15 February) at Snapper Rocks
Three days of surf action at Snapper Rocks, running Friday 13 to Sunday 15 February. Early mornings are your friend for parking, crowds and the best viewing conditions.
Gold Coast Open (18 to 22 February) at Burleigh Hill
Five days of professional surfing at Burleigh, with live music and extra activations surrounding the competition. Expect busy afternoons and a festival atmosphere through the weekend.
February Nights: Make Dracula’s the Hero Plan
February nights are warm, lively and slightly less chaotic than January. The smartest local move is booking one strong anchor experience so your night cannot be derailed by queues or sudden storms.
That is exactly why Dracula’s shines in February. It is fully indoors, dinner led and built for big nights out. You get multi course dining, cocktails and a live show in one booking, which works perfectly for couples, groups and celebrations when the weather is sticky or unpredictable.
It is the kind of night people never regret booking, especially when everything else is competing for attention.
A Simple February Day Plan
- Morning beach swim early
- Midday HOTA gallery visit and Ken Done: No Rules before it closes on 15 Feb
- Afternoon rest and reset
- Night at Dracula’s for a locked in, weather proof evening
FAQs: Gold Coast Events in February
Is February a good time to visit the Gold Coast?
Yes. It is one of the best months for balancing summer weather with fewer crowds.
Do February events sell out?
Major festivals, concerts and night markets can sell out, especially on weekends. Booking ahead is recommended.
What are the best weather proof night activities in February?
Indoor shows, cinemas, galleries and dinner and show experiences like Dracula’s are the most reliable options.
If you're looking for things to do on the Gold Coast year round, read our evergreen article on the best things to do on the Gold Coast, no matter the time of year.
