Are the Gold Coast markets free to enter?

The markets listed here are free to wander, though you will want money for food and anything you buy. Check each listing for the days they run.

How do outdoor movies work?

Families bring rugs and chairs and sit in a park to watch a film on a big screen. They are free, but good spots go early, so arrive in plenty of time.

Do I need to book the kids' nature programs?

Some do require a booking, so check the listing and register early if needed. Places can be limited.

What if it rains on the day of an event?

Outdoor events may be changed or cancelled. Check the listing or the organiser's page on the day before setting out.

Free events and markets in Gold Coast

The Gold Coast's free events tend to cluster around three things: markets, outdoor movies and community kids' programs. The beachfront markets at Surfers and the weekend markets at Carrara give you something to browse, snack on and watch, and Miami Marketta adds food and music in the evening. Movies Under the Stars brings family films to a park near you, and the nature programs run by NaturallyGC Kids are a clever way to get children outside, whether they are exploring a rocky shore or making art from natural materials. What makes events a good bet is variety: they change every week and often suit a wobbly forecast better than you would think. The catch is that many are seasonal, one-off or need a booking, so check the listing before turning up. Bring a rug for the outdoor movies, cash for the markets and a bit of patience for crowds. Events are also a good way to meet other families, which is worth more than most parents realise in a new suburb. Treat this page as a starting point and look for what is on this week.

Our picks

Miami Marketta Miami
Miami Marketta is a street food night market in a covered laneway at 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami, with food vendors from many countries, free live music on the Cargo…

★ 4.6 (4,533)
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets run along the Surfers Paradise Esplanade foreshore, a few steps from the beach, and have operated since 1995.

★ 4.4 (5,201)
Carrara Markets Carrara
Carrara Markets is a weekend market on the corner of Gooding Drive and Manchester Road, Carrara, open every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 3pm with free entry and free…

★ 4.0 (4,441)
NaturallyGC Mini Wildlife Fest Pimpama
A free, family-friendly wildlife morning run by NaturallyGC (City of Gold Coast) on Saturday 16 January 2027, 10am to 12pm, in Pimpama; the exact location is sent after…

Before you go

Best for which ages

Markets and movies suit mixed ages, with something for toddlers and teens to share. Nature programs work best for school-age children who like hands-on activities and a bit of mess. Check each listing for age guidance, because some sessions are aimed at a narrow range.

What to bring

A picnic rug, snacks, water and a jacket for night-time movies. Cash or a card for the markets, and a bag for anything you buy. Insect repellent can help in the evening, and a torch makes the walk back to the car much calmer.

Parking and facilities

Markets and events can be busy, so allow extra time to find a park, and consider public transport on the biggest days. Facilities vary from event to event, so read the listing. Many are outdoors, so check the weather before leaving.

Best time of year

Summer brings the outdoor movies and the busiest markets, while cooler months are more comfortable for walking around. Many events are seasonal or one-off, so confirm dates and details on the listing rather than relying on what ran last year.

How to make a day of it

Pair a morning market with a playground or park nearby, then head home for a rest. For evening events, feed the kids first and bring a blanket so they can nod off when the movie ends. Keep the plan loose and the snacks close.

Markets and free events

Regular markets and free events with something for kids. Dates and times are on each listing.

Miami Marketta Miami
Miami Marketta is a street food night market in a covered laneway at 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami, with food vendors from many countries, free live music on the Cargo…

★ 4.6 (4,533)
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets run along the Surfers Paradise Esplanade foreshore, a few steps from the beach, and have operated since 1995.

★ 4.4 (5,201)
Carrara Markets Carrara
Carrara Markets is a weekend market on the corner of Gooding Drive and Manchester Road, Carrara, open every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 3pm with free entry and free…

★ 4.0 (4,441)
NaturallyGC Mini Wildlife Fest Pimpama
A free, family-friendly wildlife morning run by NaturallyGC (City of Gold Coast) on Saturday 16 January 2027, 10am to 12pm, in Pimpama; the exact location is sent after…

Questions parents ask

Are the Gold Coast markets free to enter?: The markets listed here are free to wander, though you will want money for food and anything you buy. Check each listing for the days they run.
How do outdoor movies work?: Families bring rugs and chairs and sit in a park to watch a film on a big screen. They are free, but good spots go early, so arrive in plenty of time.
Do I need to book the kids' nature programs?: Some do require a booking, so check the listing and register early if needed. Places can be limited.
What if it rains on the day of an event?: Outdoor events may be changed or cancelled. Check the listing or the organiser's page on the day before setting out.