Discover the Best Sunshine Coast Events While Staying in Maroochydore
When you stay in Maroochydore, you’re in the heart of the Sunshine Coast – the perfect base to explore world-class events happening throughout the region. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a foodie, or someone who loves local culture, there’s always something exciting around the corner. Here’s a roundup of the best upcoming events on the Sunshine Coast!
Must-See Sunshine Coast Events in 2026
Get ready for an action-packed year ahead! The Sunshine Coast will host an array of thrilling events in 2026. Mark your calendar for these exciting dates:
Shaw and Partners world Ocean Series – Murphy Homes Maroochy Classic
Maroochydore Beach
Friday, 23rd to Saturday, 24th January, 2026
The Murphy Homes Maroochy Classic blends one of the world’s longest-running surf lifesaving carnivals with high-energy modern racing. Featuring top Australian and international athletes, over AUD60,000 in prize money, and live coverage on 7plus, it’s a major Sunshine Coast spectacle offering 7,000 crucial World Ocean Series ranking points.
Sunshine Coast Water Lantern Festival
Lake Kawana – Sunshine Coast Stadium
Saturday, 15th February, 2026
The Sunshine Coast Water Lantern Festival brings an enchanting evening of light, reflection and community to Lake Kawana. As thousands of glowing lanterns drift across the water, the event blends live music, cultural performances, food trucks and meaningful moments, creating a memorable experience for all ages in a stunning waterfront setting.
2026 Queensland Surf Life Saving Championships
Maroochydore Beach
Youth Champs – 19th to 22nd February, 2026
Senior & Master Champs – 27th February to 1st March, 2026
Surf sport, sand, sunshine and serious skill. Catch the Queensland Surf Life Saving Championships happening right here in Maroochydore.
Aussie World Lantern Festival
Aussie World
Saturday, 28th February, 2026
The Aussie World Lantern Festival lights up the Sunshine Coast with a vibrant celebration of colour, culture and family fun. Set within the iconic theme park, the festival features illuminated lantern displays, live entertainment, and authentic cuisine, making it a lively and festive night out for locals and visitors alike
2026 Mooloolaba Triathlon
Mooloolaba Beach
Saturday, 14th to Sunday, 15th March, 2026
One of Australia’s most iconic triathlons, the Mooloolaba Triathlon attracts top athletes and outdoor enthusiasts for a weekend of competition, fitness, and community spirit.
Freestyle Kings Live World Tour in Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast Stadium
Saturday, 21st March, 2026
The Freestyle Kings Live Show is an action packed show featuring world class Moto-X and BMX riders, get ready to strap yourself in for a 2 hour spectacular.
Suncoast Outdoor Adventure Expo
Nambour Showgrounds
Friday, 17th to Sunday, 19th April, 2026
The Suncoast Outdoor Adventure Expo is a haven for outdoor lovers. The 2025 Suncoast Outdoor Adventure Expo is your one-stop destination for all things adventure, featuring the latest in auto and 4WD accessories, caravans, camper trailers and more.
Mooloolaba Mile Ocean Swim
Mooloolaba Beach
Sunday, 19th April, 2026
A popular event for ocean swimmers, the Mooloolaba Mile Ocean Swim offers varying distances from 800m to 6km, with the course at Mooloolaba Spit.
Horizon Festival
Sunshine Coast
Friday, 1st to Sunday 10th May, 2026
Horizon Festival is a 10-day celebration of art, people, and place on Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country. Marking its tenth year, it presents 30+ events across First Nations culture, visual and performing arts, music, and community experiences—inviting audiences to explore, connect, and be inspired.
Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show
Nambour Showgrounds
Friday, 12th to Sunday, 14th June
Experience the best of local agriculture, from livestock shows to live entertainment, food stalls, and more. A fun-filled event for the whole family!
Australian Deaf Games
Various Locations – Sunshine Coast
Saturday, 4th to Saturday, 11th July, 2026
The Australian Deaf Games is the premier national sporting event for Deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes, showcasing elite competition across multiple sports. Hosted across the Sunshine Coast, the Games celebrate athletic excellence, inclusion and community, drawing competitors and supporters from across Australia for a week of high-level sport and connection.
Queensland Garden Show
Nambour Showgrounds
Friday 10th to Sunday 12th July, 2026
The Queensland Garden Show is set to be a highlight of 2026 for gardening enthusiasts of all levels. Across three vibrant days, this premier event celebrates all things green, featuring Queensland’s largest gathering of plants in one place. Visitors can enjoy free talks, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops hosted by leading gardening experts from around Australia.
The Curated Plate
Sunshine Coast
Friday, 24th July – Sunday, 2nd August, 2026
Food lovers won’t want to miss The Curated Plate, a festival celebrating the best local produce, fine dining, and gourmet experiences across the Sunshine Coast.
EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival
Alexandra Headland
Sunday, 2nd August, 2026
The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon is one of the premier marathon events in Australia, featuring various race categories, including a marathon, half marathon, and 10km race.
Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast
Mooloolaba
Sunday, 13th September, 2026
The Ironman 70.3 is a global triathlon series, and the Sunshine Coast leg is one of the most scenic and exciting races, featuring a 1.9 km swim, 90 km bike ride, and 21.1 km run.
Stay in Comfort at Elouera Tower – Your Maroochydore Accommodation
Looking for the perfect place to stay while enjoying these exciting Sunshine Coast events? Elouera Tower offers fully self-contained holiday apartments right in the heart of Maroochydore. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, we have the ideal accommodation for you.
Choose from:
- 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments
Our guests also enjoy fantastic on-site amenities, including:
- Outdoor heated pool and spa
- Sauna
- Full-size tennis court
- And much more!
Book your stay with us at Elouera Tower and experience the Sunshine Coast in style. Book Now!
Image: The Curated Plate 2023 courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland
Note: Events are subject to change. We recommend checking with event organisers for the most up-to-date details.