Sunshine Coast Hinterland 2026 Events

The Sunshine Coast Hinterland 2026 Events Guide is here!

Our region is home to many new and annual festivals, fairs and events that attract those far and wide from all over SEQ. In this guide, we have compiled an ultimate list of every event from May – December 2026 so you don’t miss out on any of the action of exciting events and attractions happening in and close to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Read about upcoming food, art and creative festivals and plan your next stay around these Sunshine Coast Hinterland 2026 Events.

MALENY AGRICULTURAL SHOW | 29TH – 30TH MAY

The Maleny Agricultural Show is Maleny’s yearly fair, combining live events, amusement rides, fireworks, show bags, competitions and lots of animals! The Maleny Show was founded in 1922 and has been a staple of Maleny’s success and the reason for many annual travellers from all over Queensland since its origins. Maleny residents receive the Friday 29th as a public show day and the show runs until Saturday the 30th of May for those traveling from afar. Both days are action packed with events, with the most exhilarating saved till last. 

Main Ring Evening Events:

Flare Action Motorcycle Stunt Show: High-speed stunt riding

(Friday) Approx. 6:00pm – 6 Bar Horse Jump: A crowd-favourite jumping challenge

(Saturday) Approx. 4:00pm – Maleny Show’s Famous Dog Jump Competition: A fast, fun crowd favourite.

Cowgirls with Wings: Evening performance

KC’s Monster Truck Spectacular: Monster trucks, stunt cars,

Laser show and fireworks finale

JUNE

SUNSHINE COAST AGRICULTURAL SHOW | 12TH – 14TH JUNE

The Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show is a cherished annual event that brings together the region’s rich farming heritage, vibrant community spirit, and love for all things rural. Since its inception in 1900, the show has been a platform for showcasing local agriculture, produce, arts, crafts, and entertainment, growing into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most anticipated traditions.

JULY

OPEN STUDIOS SUNSHINE COAST | 17TH – 26TH JULY

Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of the Sunshine Coast, as you meet talented local artists in their own creative spaces.

Open Studios Sunshine Coast provides a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes, connect directly with makers, and support the region’s artistic community.

The curated art trails travel through the gorgeous hinterland from the Glass House Mountains to Mapleton and along the coastline from Caloundra to Coolum and everywhere in between.

Embark on a self-guided journey, exploring local studios, purchasing one-of-a-kind artworks, participating in hands-on workshops with artists, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the diverse artistic landscape that defines the Sunshine Coast.

Use the Google Map Trail featuring all 47 locations: https://www.google.com/local/userlists/list/qRQ2BALuFoFUmFeF1Z9j6g

This year the trail showcases an exciting array of mediums, including ceramics, drawing, glass, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, metalwork, woodwork, jewellery, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time art lover, this is your chance to experience exceptional local art and purchase directly from the artists themselves.

CURATED PLATE FOOD FESTIVAL | 24TH JULY – 2ND AUGUST

The Curated Plate is a delicious celebration of the Sunshine Coast’s local produce, producers and chefs, and unique natural assets from the sea to the hinterland.

The program is developed through collaboration between local producers, suppliers and businesses who come together to tell their stories not only through food but experiences.

The festival runs over 10 days – a delicious spread over two weekends, with plenty of options to feast on throughout the week.

Our events take place in a variety of settings – like on a farm, under the stars, by the seaside, next to a majestic mountain, on a boat, in a distillery as well as at some of the Sunshine Coast’s most well-known, well-loved and award-winning restaurants. 

AUGUST

SUNSHINE COAST ASIAN FOOD FESTIVAL | 1ST AUGUST

The Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival returns this year on Saturday, 1 August at Spices Retreat On Tamarind. Being one of the main events of Curated Plate, the Asian Food Festival combines the best flavours, chefs and experiences to bring you  a ultimate rainforest day out. 

With your experience, taste 5 dishes from a star-studded line up of Sunshine Coast chefs:

• Chef Alex Hall – The Tamarind 
• Chef Daniel Jarrett – Pocky Asian Restaurant 
• Chef James Fraser – Rice Boi 
• Chef Tom Hitchcock – Spirit House 
• Chef Nathan Rumble – Honeysuckle  

Enjoy live tunes, amazing Asian food and a lazy afternoon picnic.

GYMPIE MUSIC MUSTER | 27TH – 30TH AUG

The Gympie Music Muster is a massive celebration of country music taking place over 4 days at the end of August. Camping is encouraged as well as hundreds of food, clothes and merch stalls to keep you sorted throughout your stay. 

The first Gympie Muster, held in 1982 as a celebration of the Golden Guitar win by the Webb Brothers’, has grown to become one of Australia’s most recognised iconic fundraising events, returning more than $21.8 million to community groups and charities since inception. The Muster is proudly owned by the Apex Club of Gympie and its fundamental purpose has always remained the same – to raise funds for those in need in our communities. Over the years there have been more than 2500 performances including Australian country royalty Slim Dusty who has a camping area named in his honour.

OCTOBER

MALENY OBSERVATORY PUBLIC TELESCOPE NIGHT | 15th Oct 5:00-8:00pm

These evenings provide an opportunity for the public to learn a little about astronomy and get to observe some amazing astronomical objects through some impressive telescopes. No equipment required. Hosted by Brisbane Astronomical Society.

The Maleny Golf Club’s street address is:  15 Porters Lane, North Maleny QLD, 4552 

Please adhere to strict dark sky light protocols:

• Telescope owners to be set up before the end nautical twilight.
  
  
• Only telescope and equipment owners to park in Maleny Golf Club car park.
  
  
• Any visitors to park in Porter’s Lane and then walk to the club house.
  
  
• Headlights to an absolute safe minimum within site of the Golf Club.
  
  
• Red or orange lights only, directed down, within 100metres of Golf Club.
  
  
• Mobile phones to be dimmed, and preferably dark adapted.

Event start and end times vary each month as we head into, and out, of winter.  Best to arrive about about 40 minutes prior to sunset.

THE RANGEBOW FESTIVAL | 9TH – 18TH OCTOBER

The Rangebow Festival is a fully inclusive festival that raises awareness for the LGTBQ+ community though engaging artistic mediums and experiences to enjoy. Based in Nambour, this years festival combines the historic Sunshine Coast town and surrounding townships to host workshops, events and performances. 

With multiple events on each day, there is well and truly something for everyone to enjoy. Get your group together or come along and make some new friends in this community event. 

NOVEMBER

SCULPTURE ON THE EDGE | 28TH NOV – 6TH DEC

Arts Connect Inc’s annual event, Sculpture on the Edge, is back for its 17th celebratory year. Sculpture On The Edge takes place in the natural beauty of Flaxton Gardens on the stunning Sunshine Coast. The exhibition features a vibrant display of indoor and outdoor sculptures, all available for purchase, designed to ignite your imagination, inspire your creativity, and delight your senses. Walk though the exhibition and then make your way to the terrace for a lunch with a grand coastline view from Flaxton Gardens.

DECEMBER

Mooloolaba Christmas Light Cruises | 5th – 31st December

See the Christmas Lights on the water on Mooloolaba for a fun Christmas activity for the whole family. See some recommended cruises below:

MONTVILLE CHRISTMAS MARKET | Early December

Usually landing on the first week of December, the Montville Christmas Market is a fun family outing with Christmas stalls, food, activities and live performances. The date for 2026 is still yet to be confirmed, but it is a must visit during your stay to sample and support local produce and hand-made goods. Find that perfect hinterland Christmas present! 

New Years Eve 2026 Fireworks | 31st December 8:30-12:00pm

The Sunshine Coast has lots of fireworks locations when it comes to celebrating New Year’s Eve 2026. Plan your holiday ahead to secure a fantastic location.

• Mooloolaba, HMAS Lookout and Parklands (Main Location): First Show at 8:30pm and NYE Fireworks at 12:00am
• Caloundra, Bulcock Beach: 9:30pm
• Coolum: 8:30pm
• Noosa Marina: Expected between 9:00 – 10:30pm. TBC.

Learn more about our recommendations to do, play and stay for your next trip in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland here. 

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