Top Things to Do on Australia Day That Gold Coast Families Will Enjoy

Australia Day is an opportunity to gather our friends and family members together for some fun.  If you’ve run out of ideas on how to celebrate Australia Day with your loved ones, the Gold Coast has plenty of exciting activities that are ideal for groups of all ages. Whether it's exploring beaches along the coast or going on sightseeing tours around iconic attractions, this holiday provides something that everyone can enjoy. So take advantage of such a special occasion and plan a weekend to remember with these top family-friendly activities on the Gold Coast!

1. Australia Day Celebrations at the HOTA Outdoor Stage. This year, the Gold Coast Australia Day Celebrations will be held on Thursday, 26 January at the HOTA Outdoor Stage. This alcohol-free, family friendly, free event starts at 4pm and finishes at 8pm. There will be plenty of free kids’ activities, an assortment of delicious food trucks, and a fireworks finale at approximately 7.50 PM.
 
2. ‘Straya Day at Southport Sharks. Bring the family in from early arvo on 26 Jan and be entertained with a free reptile show for the kids (4PM), free kids face painting (5pm), kids disco with LOL Crew (5:30 PM), and bbq-themed raffles (6 PM). Live entertainment starts at 7:30 PM.

3. Chill out by the beach. With the abundance of stunning sandy beaches, rolling golden dunes,  and clear turquoise waters on the Gold Coast—spending the day at your local beach is an easy way to gather your friends and loved ones for an unforgettable Australian Day experience. Whether you’re after a big celebration or just kicking back and relaxing, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.

4. Australia Day at the Broadwater Parklands. This year’s festivities will include live music, food trucks, and Watersport displays. A spectacular firework display will be hosted towards the end of the evening to finish off the celebration.
 
5. Sit back and relax on Burleigh Hill. Overlooking the glistening white sands of Burleigh Beach and the Gold Coast City skyline, Burleigh Hill is a great place to gather the family and some friends for a picnic, whilst admiring the relaxing atmosphere of this quiet suburb.

6. Connect with nature at Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens runs a range of events and activities for the entire family, making it the perfect spot for you and your favourite people to come together and enjoy a picnic on Australia Day. With the parkland’s vibrant plant life, walking trails, a children’s playground, and a Butterfly Garden—there’s an experience for everyone.
 
7. Experience family-friendly outdoor shopping at the Beachfront Markets. Located at the Surfers Paradise foreshore, the Beachfront Markets offer a great after-dinner-shopping experience. There are around 100 market stalls that feature various products, such as clothes, accessories, art pieces, and homewares. The place also comes with several treats and attractions that will keep children entertained.

8. Host a BBQ. Aussies always love a good excuse to have a BBQ, and the birth of a nation is a pretty good one. If you can’t seem to decide what to do on Australia Day or you prefer to have a low-key and super relaxed celebration,  consider inviting a few friends and family members over for a true blue Aussie Day BBQ at home. You might want to play some classic Aussie hits, too, to set the scene.

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With Gourmet Meals, you can have healthy, nutritious, and tasty meals any time you want even if you’re too busy or unable to cook for yourself. No longer do you need to worry about what to have for dinner each night—simply remove your Gourmet Meals from the freezer, heat, and enjoy! Check out our menu here.

Wishing all proud Australians a joyful Straya Day!