What's On
Late May 2026 on the Gold Coast
A quieter week after last week's Boat Show, but plenty to enjoy. Professor Brian Cox brings his brand-new Emergence tour to Brisbane on Friday — a brilliant night out for science enthusiasts. HOTA opens a free Sessions Surf Art Exhibit on Tuesday and launches Australian comedian Bron Lewis on Friday for a long-running season. La Boite's bold Eat Slay Zombie plays its closing weekend in Brisbane — last chance to catch it.
Last updated: 24 May 2026 · Events sourced via Must Do Gold Coast & HOTA
Top Things To Do This Week (24 — 30 May)
Friday 30 May · Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Professor Brian Cox: Emergence
One of the world's most beloved scientists brings his spectacular new live show to Brisbane — exploring the universe, consciousness, and what it means to be human. A brilliant Brisbane night out.
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From Tuesday 26 May · HOTA · Free
Sessions Surf Art Exhibit
Stunning surf photography and artwork from the Sessions Surf Festival goes on display at HOTA from Tuesday. A free, beautiful way to spend a midweek afternoon on the Gold Coast.
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Opens Friday 29 May · HOTA · Comedy
Bron Lewis: Chaos
Australian comedian Bron Lewis launches her acclaimed show Chaos at HOTA this Friday for a long-running season. Sharp, heartfelt, and brilliantly funny. A perfect Friday night out. Ages 15+.
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Closing weekend — until Saturday 30 May · Brisbane
Eat Slay Zombie — Closing Weekend
La Boite Theatre's fierce, funny, and wildly entertaining zombie apocalypse show closes this weekend. Last chance to catch this bold work — a great Brisbane day trip for theatre lovers.
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Arts, Music & Culture
From Tuesday 26 May · HOTA · Free
Sessions Surf Art Exhibit
Striking surf photography and art from the Sessions Surf Festival goes on display at HOTA from Tuesday. Celebrating the culture, craft, and beauty of surfing — a free and inspiring visit.
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Opens Friday 29 May · HOTA · Comedy
Bron Lewis: Chaos
Australian comedian Bron Lewis opens her acclaimed show Chaos at HOTA this Friday for a long-running season. Sharp, heartfelt, and brilliantly funny — a standout Friday night on the Gold Coast. Ages 15+.
Learn more
Friday 30 May · Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Professor Brian Cox: Emergence
After the global success of Horizons, Britain's most beloved scientist returns with a spectacular new live show exploring the universe, consciousness, and what it means to be alive. A brilliant Brisbane night out.
Learn more
Closing weekend — until Saturday 30 May · Brisbane
Eat Slay Zombie
La Boite Theatre's fierce, funny, and wildly entertaining zombie apocalypse show closes this weekend. Last chance to catch this bold work — a brilliant Brisbane day trip for theatre lovers.
Learn more
Ongoing
Door Seven Haunted House
A spine-chilling immersive experience in Surfers Paradise — like stepping into a horror movie. One of the Gold Coast's most popular attractions for thrill seekers.
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Markets & Food
Every Friday, 4 — 8 PM
Sanctuary Markets
A global street food haven at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary every Friday evening. International cuisines, craft stalls, live music, plus vegan and gluten-free options. Family-friendly start to the weekend.
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Every Wed, Fri & Sat, 4 — 9 PM
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
Iconic beachfront markets with handmade arts, crafts, fashion, jewellery, and foodie treats along the esplanade. A classic Gold Coast experience.
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Every Sunday, 6 AM — 11:30 AM
HOTA Farmers & Artisan Markets
Weekly farmers market with fresh local produce, artisan goods, specialty coffee, and live music in the HOTA arts precinct. A Gold Coast Sunday morning favourite.
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Last Sunday of each month, 8 AM — 2 PM
Burleigh Heads Beachside Markets
The longest-running art and craft market on the Gold Coast, going strong for over 30 years. Local artisans, food vendors, and live music in a beachside setting at Justin's Park.
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Every Saturday, 6 AM — 11:30 AM
Palm Beach Farmers' Market
Local growers and artisan producers come together every Saturday morning. Fresh produce, bulk foods, locally made oils, honey, fresh flowers, and specialty coffee.
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Every Sat & Sun, 7 AM — 3 PM
Carrara Markets
One of Australia's largest permanent marketplaces with over 300 stalls. Fresh produce, cafes, mini golf, butterfly house, and family attractions all weekend long.
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