A Year of Festivals, Surf Culture, Sport and Coastal Celebrations
The Sunshine Coast isn’t just about beautiful beaches, warm ocean swims and relaxed coastal living – it’s also home to an incredible calendar of events throughout the year. From world-class sporting competitions to vibrant arts festivals and delicious food celebrations, there’s always something happening along the coast.
If you’re planning a getaway to Peregian Beach or staying with us at Glen Eden Beach Resort in 2026, here are some of the best events worth planning your trip around.
Autumn begins with one of the Sunshine Coast’s most iconic events – the Noosa Festival of Surfing, returning from 13–22 March 2026.
Held at the famous First Point in Noosa Heads, this world-renowned festival celebrates everything about surfing culture. Over ten days you’ll see longboard competitions, surf art, film screenings, live music, environmental events and even the popular dog surfing competition. The festival has been running for more than three decades and draws competitors and spectators from around the world.
Even if you’re not surfing, it’s an incredible atmosphere. Grab a coffee or cocktail, sit on the sand and watch surfers glide along Noosa’s legendary point break.
Just down the coast, another major sporting event takes place the same weekend – the Mooloolaba Triathlon. This exciting race weekend brings thousands of athletes and spectators to the Mooloolaba Esplanade for a festival-style atmosphere filled with competition, food stalls and entertainment.
For visitors staying in Peregian Beach, both events are easy day trips and a great way to experience the vibrant energy of the Sunshine Coast.
As the weather cools slightly, the Sunshine Coast’s creative and culinary scene shines.
The Horizon Festival returns from 1–10 May 2026, showcasing contemporary art, performance, music and installations across the region.
This festival celebrates the intersection of art, place and community on Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country. Expect immersive experiences, outdoor installations, live performances and creative collaborations in stunning coastal locations.
Food lovers should also keep an eye on GourMay Mary Valley, a month-long celebration of local produce, farm experiences and regional dining held throughout May.
It’s a beautiful way to explore the Sunshine Coast hinterland – think long lunches, local cheese, fresh produce and scenic countryside.
Winter on the Sunshine Coast is one of the best times to visit. The days are sunny, the beaches are quiet, and the events calendar continues to deliver.
One of the most unique events is the Australian Wearable Art Festival, taking place 11 July 2026 at the Novotel Sunshine Coast.
This spectacular show blends fashion, art and performance into a truly creative experience. Designers create incredible wearable sculptures that come to life on stage through music, lighting and choreography.
For something completely different, winter is also a wonderful time to explore smaller local markets, music events and food festivals scattered throughout the region.
If you love an active holiday, the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival on 2 August 2026 is a highlight.
Starting near Alexandra Headland, runners take part in a variety of distances including the full marathon, half marathon and shorter fun runs. The course follows the coastline, offering spectacular ocean views and a fantastic atmosphere as crowds gather along the route.
Even if you’re not running, the event weekend is lively and inspiring – and a great excuse for a post-run swim or breakfast overlooking the ocean.
The year finishes with one of the biggest events on the Sunshine Coast sporting calendar – the Noosa Triathlon.
Taking place 28 October – 1 November 2026, this iconic race is considered one of the world’s top triathlons.
Athletes swim in the calm waters of Laguna Bay, cycle through the Noosa hinterland and run along the beautiful coastal streets. But the event is much more than a race – it’s a five-day festival with fun runs, ocean swims, kids events, markets and live entertainment.
Even if you’re simply cheering from the sidelines, the energy is infectious.
Beyond the major festivals, the Sunshine Coast also hosts countless smaller events throughout the year.
You might stumble upon:
Lantern festivals celebrating Lunar New Year
Brewery hop tours across the region
Outdoor concerts and beachside markets
Community sporting events
Local music festivals
These events reflect the Sunshine Coast lifestyle – relaxed, community-driven and deeply connected to the outdoors.
Planning your holiday around an event adds an extra layer to your Sunshine Coast experience. You’ll not only enjoy the beaches, national parks and coastal walks, but also connect with the local culture, food and creative community.
And when the day winds down, there’s nothing better than returning to the peaceful surroundings of Peregian Beach.
At Glen Eden Beach Resort, you’ll find spacious townhouses surrounded by tropical gardens, direct access to the beach and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that makes the Sunshine Coast so special. After a day exploring festivals, markets or sporting events, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Whether you’re visiting for world-class surfing events, food festivals, arts celebrations or iconic sporting competitions, the Sunshine Coast offers something memorable in every season.
So start planning your 2026 getaway now – and discover why this stretch of coastline is one of Australia’s most loved destinations.
Useful Event Links
Noosa Festival of Surfing – https://www.noosafestivalofsurfing.com/
Horizon Festival – https://www.horizonfestival.com.au/
Sunshine Coast Marathon – https://www.sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au/
Noosa Triathlon – https://noosatri.com.au/
Sunshine Coast Events Guide – https://www.visitsunshinecoast.com/guide/sunshine-coast-events