Making memories is a huge part of the study experience. Getting out and about and soaking up some fun with friends is all part of student life. The Sunshine Coast festival scene is alive and well. Get involved by attending, participating or even as a volunteer.
Here are the top seven. Don’t forget to save the dates!
Sunshine Coast Anywhere Festival
Taking performance out of traditional theatre spaces and into the unexpected is what this festival is about. A celebration of Queensland’s diverse performing arts talent the line-up includes more than 400 performances taking place in heritage homes, light houses, universities, streets, backyards and more. It delights and surprises providing accessible theatre that engages audiences and helps us tell our uniquely Queensland stories.
The Big Pineapple Music Festival
This event is sponsored by Triple J and is one of the most popular music festivals on the Coast. There are four stages featuring acts from well-known and emerging artists and guest DJs. The silent disco is also popular. Camping is available and shuttle buses for those needing to get home.
7SC Marathon
The Sunshine Coast’s biggest one-day sporting event sees almost 6, 500 runners competing in the marathon, half-marathon, 10km, 5km or 2km fun run. The event promotes, health, fitness and community participation and has helped raise more than $1,500,000 for charity and community groups since its inception in 2012. Money raised has been distributed to more than 120 charities including the event’s two major beneficiaries Ronald McDonald House Charities and the Westpac Foundation.
The Curated Plate
The Curated Plate is a new four-day food festival on the Sunshine Coast, featuring the best chefs from Australia and around the world. Celebrating the relationship between chef and producer, in the picturesque surrounds of a region famed for its vibrant produce, The Curated Plate encourages guests to immerse themselves in the flavours foraged from organic and sustainable practices and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences. Don’t miss the exciting program of exclusive culinary events bringing to life the unique local artisan culture.
Caloundra Music Festival
Enjoy world-class music, food, arts and local culture at this popular festival which features a diverse program of entertainment including the best of the Australian music industry and some incredible international artists. There is camping and glamping available too so make sure you book your spot.
The Big Pineapple Craft Beer and Cider Expo Sunshine Coast
Craft Beer & Cider Festival Sunshine Coast brings a taste of some of Australia and New Zealand’s most unobtainable craft beers paired amongst locally sourced produce in the heart of the Sunshine Coast. The brewers and cideries are handpicked after long yarns and vigorous tasting sessions and the yearly curated event is proud to bring a unique flavour showcase to Coast dwellers paired with local produce, live music, and entertainment.
Horizon Festival Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast’s premier multi-arts festival connects artists, industries, communities and audiences in an award-winning celebration of arts and culture. Local, national and international artists come together for 10 arts-fuelled days. The line-up celebrates visual art, music, words and ideas, film, fashion, art and tech, performing arts and street art. There is also an exciting line up of creative workshops providing the opportunity to learn new skills and meet like-minded people.
And a word on festivals – they are a great place to get involved in the community. Be sure to check their websites for opportunities to work, volunteer or participate!