3 family-friendly NYE events on the Gold Coast.
3 family-friendly NYE events on the Gold Coast.
If you’re chasing that NYE sparkle, fireworks and delicious food, but also keeping an eye on the wallet, the sleep score and/or the small humans…well, have we got the NYE events for you!
This year, the Gold Coast is sliding into 2026 with three free, family-friendly celebrations across Varsity Lakes, Miami and Robina- each one bringing its own flair, tasty fare and early fireworks (because honestly, some of us are in bed by 9:30 and proud of it). Let’s get into it.
New Year’s Eve By The Lake- Varsity Lakes
First up, we have ‘New Year’s Eve by the Lake’ at Varsity Lakes, proudly presented by Councillor Dan Doran of the City of Gold Coast. If your ideal New Year’s Eve involves fresh air, happy kids, no admission fee and the option to be home by 9pm, this FREE community event is for you, and the whole fam!
Nothing kicks off the journey into the new year better than a live band, which will be firing from 5:30pm on the beautiful Waterfront Stage. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket, stake out the perfect patch of grass and settle in for a laid-back lakeside celebration.
Food-wise, you’re spoiled for choice: dine in at one of the local restaurants, grab dinner to-go for a twilight picnic, or tuck into one of the event’s food trucks (which is basically the law at community events). Kids will be happily occupied with children’s entertainment, meaning adults can enjoy a moment of peace. As the sun dips low, all eyes turn to stars for a spectacular 8:30pm fireworks display to light up the sky!
When: 5:30pm-8:30pm, 31 December 2025
Where: Waterfront Stage – Varsity Promenade, 240 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Miami Twilight NYE- Miami
Next up, we have ‘Miami Twilight NYE’ at Thorn Park, hosted by Councillor Nick Marshall City of Gold Coast. This one runs from 4pm–8pm and is essentially a festival of Things Kids Love… which makes it perfect for adults who love watching kids go bananas while quietly enjoying a snack from the delicious food trucks.
Expect DJ beats, trackless train rides on the New Year Express (all aboard for 2026!), a Bubble Zone, inflatables, fire performers, face painting, arts and crafts and much more! The event wraps at 8pm, with fireworks lighting up the coastline over Kurrawa and Surfers Paradise.
When: 4pm-8pm, 31 December 2025
Where: Thorn Park, Marine Parade, Miami
NYE Glitter & Glow Party- Robina
Last but certainly not least, we have ‘NYE at Robina Town Centre’. This event is for those who want their NYE to feel like a mini carnival without the chaos (or entry ticket)- umm, obviously?!
Watch The Promenade transform into a glittery, glowing wonderland from 4pm to 8pm, complete with live local music, carnival-style rides, family entertainment and a bright, joyful atmosphere that would make even the Grinch want to join in on the fun!
Kids can spin themselves silly on the cup-and-saucer ride, bounce on the big inflatable or emerge from face painting as a beautiful butterfly or brave tiger! Then, for when tummies start grumbling, you’ll find an endless line-up of restaurants and dessert bars along The Promenade. You’ll also be in prime position for the 8pm fireworks! Be sure to dress in your most sparkly attire.
When: 4pm-8pm, 31 December 2025
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY THE EVENTS AGENCY
The freshest spots are here, and the Gold Coast is just warming up.
The year’s winding down, but if November openings are anything to go by, the Gold Coast is still full throttle.
From sampling sizzling meats and frosty fruity treats to soaking up the vibes in beer gardens and on mountain picnics, we’ve rounded up all the November openings so you can start planning your ultimate end-of-year adventures.
Peddly Picnics is rolling into Tamborine Mountain with the smoothest way to explore the Scenic Rim… on two wheels! Grab an e-bike, load up your picnic basket and cruise between wineries, distilleries, cafes and lookout spots at your own breezy pace. With lush rainforest trails, secret foodie stops and even room for a pup in the basket, it’s the ultimate sip-and-snack summer adventure. Trust us, this is one wheelie good day out.
Where: 43 Main St, Tamborine Mountain
The Chilly Bin is officially Tugun’s coolest new hangout, bringing a taste of true Kiwi summer with its real fruit ice cream served straight from a converted horse float. Blending frozen fruit with silky handmade ice cream on the spot, it’s part soft serve, part smoothie, and all delicious. Think mango, mixed berry, rotating specials and even dairy-free bases made with coconut milk and olive oil. With sunny seating, games and major chill vibes, this spot has summer written all over it.
Where:478 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
Costa Taco has taken over Burleigh in the best possible way, opening its biggest and boldest venue yet. What started as a tiny Palm Beach hole-in-the-wall with epic queues has grown into a full-blown coastal fiesta, and this new flagship is the ultimate taco playground. With 110 seats, colourful vibes, icy margaritas and all your Costa favourites, Burleigh is officially the new home of tortilla-fuelled good times.
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh
Southport is heating up, and it’s all thanks to Ember by Fire Baby, the fiery new sibling turning up the sizzle on Welch Street. Upstairs, Fire Baby brings cheesy comfort by the slice, but downstairs Ember is where things get sear-iously smoky. Think flame-kissed steaks, charcoal-grilled seafood and bold dishes crafted by a powerhouse culinary team. With moody vibes, inventive flavours and that irresistible open-fire aroma, Ember is serving up the kind of heat you’ll happily lean into.
Where: 10 Welch Street, Southport
Pappa Flock has swooped into Surfers Paradise, landing on Cavill Ave with a whole lot of cluckin’ good energy. The bright, beach-inspired venue features bold orange decor and a mural by local artist Kiel Tillman, instantly claiming landmark status. Known for a loyal fan base, Pappa Flock hand-breads every tender and squeezes thousands of lemons daily for unbeatable lemonade. From the Mighty Box to Loaded Fries and signature Crispy Chicken sandwiches, this new hotspot is set to be Surfers’ go-to for a flockin’ good feed.
Where: Paradise Centre, Shop 24, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Hotel Jardin has officially brought a new era of chic to Chevron Renaissance, unveiling a multi-level playground of bars, dining and late-night glamour. Its first stage features the moody Lobby Bar, a sultry Piano Bar and SABA Kitchen, where Executive Chef Minh Le dishes up spice-driven pan-Asian flavours. With velvet booths, live music, refined cocktails and a rooftop arriving in 2026, Hotel Jardin is set to become Surfers Paradise’s newest go-to for elevated evenings, golden-hour moments and seriously stylish fun.
Where: Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Cheek Café has arrived in Southport with big flavours, bold personality and peachy-good vibes. This sunny corner spot blends playful design with seriously good coffee, wholesome ingredients and a menu inspired by Greek, Italian and Aussie roots. Owner Natalie Yiannakopoulos has poured her heart into every detail, backed by Head Chef Anjelika Arnaiz, whose global experience brings a refined twist to brunch favourites. From the Cheeked Up Benny to Peachy Pannacotta, this cafe is guaranteed to brighten your day.
Where: 412/1 Como Crescent, Southport
Crack a cold one because Padre Brewing Co has officially landed in Miami. Built on two decades of friendship, the crew behind Padre believes good beer is best shared, and their new 160-seat brewery is the best place for it. Expect 14 beers brewed onsite, a menu stacked with elevated pub classics and a space designed for good times. Whether you’re sinking a lager, sampling an IPA or grabbing a takeaway, Padre is your new best mate.
Where: 9 Ozone Parade, Miami
Words by Lisette Drew
We’re going gaga over Goo-E Dessert Bar.
Move over, nightclubs! The longest lines in Broadbeach are not for dancefloors anymore, they’re for dessert bars.
Broadbeach may be famous for beaches and bars, but now holidaymakers are flocking for dessert, and the new Goo-E Dessert Bar is proving that the sweetest memories are best frozen in time.
Goo-E Dessert Bar is a self-serve frozen yoghurt and ice cream playground officially giving Gold Coast revellers a new kind of sweet obsession.
The mastermind behind the madness is Simon Morris, a man with a mission to make dessert fearless, fun and gloriously over the top. At Goo-E, you’re officially encouraged to do just that.
The first Goo-E location has just launched in Broadbeach, and with multiple locations on the horizon, it looks like Australia’s dessert game is about to get a serious shake-up, literally.
Sure, with frozen yoghurt bases, Goo-E Dessert Bar might seem like just another frozen treat on the market. But with creamy ice cream options and over 50 toppings to choose from, the creative possibilities go way beyond the rest. Goo-E lets you mix, match and build a cup of joy that’s as unique as you are.
And here’s the thing. At Goo-E, messy isn’t just acceptable, it’s celebrated. If you’ve ever stacked sprinkles so high you feared a toppling disaster, consider it an engineering marvel worthy of applause. Chocolate drizzle on your chin? Totally fine. That’s not just a topping, it’s a badge of honour.
“For little legends and the young at heart, this is your permission slip to play,” Simon said. And what Simon says, goes!
From tiny tasters to seasoned scoopers, every visitor is invited to throw the rulebook out the window, mix the colours and craft outrageously indulgent creations. At Goo-E, kids can be kids, adults can rediscover their inner child, and everyone can embrace the joy of a little sticky, drippy, swirl-filled bowl.
And make no mistake, Goo-E is unapologetically indulgent. Think bold flavours, nostalgic toppings and combinations so outrageous they might just make your head spin faster than Goo-E’s signature swirl machine!
Start by choosing your base. There’s creamy frozen yoghurt in flavours like white chocolate or strawberry, or go classic with vanilla, chocolate, or fruity mixed berry ice cream.
Next, get playful with toppings. Sprinkle or spoon on fresh fruit, crunchy granola clusters, or chocolate nibs. Don’t forget your favourite confectionery treats like Maltesers, M&Ms, Nerds, or whatever makes your sweet tooth tingle.
Then comes the fun part. Drizzle over decadent sauces like salted caramel, strawberry, chocolate or even bubblegum to crown your creation. Finally, weigh your masterpiece, pay and dig in! From drizzle devotees to sprinkle fanatics, there’s a little (or a lot) of sweet magic for everyone.
Where: 6 Charles avenue, Broadbeach
When: Daily, 11am-late
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Liam McDonald
Climb, slide, swing… repeat!
Where can you keep kids entertained for hours…or at least long enough for you to enjoy a coffee in peace? Playgrounds!! And you’re in luck, because we have 8 amazing Gold Coast playgrounds for you and your little ones to try! From jungle gyms to mega slides, we have ’em all!
Whether you’re chasing a shady spot, a sunny spot, waterfront views, or an all-abilities playground everyone can enjoy, there’s something for every family. Pack snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure- we’re going to the playground!
Say hello to Lorikeet Park, the newest playground on the Gold Coast- just opened this week. She’s bright (literally a sculpture of a lorikeet), she’s modern, and she’s full of fun! Spanning over two hectares, Lorikeet Park is suitable for toddlers through to teens, expect climbing challenges, big slides, large open green spaces, Insta-worthy lookouts and even a flying fox! However, the highlight would have to be the huge 500-person amphitheatre set for moonlight cinemas, concerts and Christmas events. The park overlooks Southport down to Burleigh Heads, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or BBQ.
Where: Skyridge Bvd, Worongary
Greenheart Parklands is leafy, spacious, and perfect for a whole family day out. You may need multiple days to get through all this park has to offer! Expect bike tracks, climbing areas/walls, water troughs, mini trampolines, winding tunnel slides, net bridges, balance beams and plenty of swings to cater for every ability. There’s a dedicated toddler play zone, walking pathways, an on-site cafe, a half basketball court, and a dog off-leash park, too! The playground is fully fenced, and the parklands cover 22.5 hectares.
Where: Stadium Dr, Robina
An absolute favourite and a Gold Coast classic, Broadwater Parklands Peninsula Playground is set along the waterfront with stunning views. Kids can race between swings, slides, and climbing structures while parents enjoy the riverside walking paths or shaded picnic areas. This playground is great for energetic toddlers and school-aged children alike, with many all-abilities inclusions! A highlight would have to be the 4-level spiral tower full of interactive play equipment like a glockenspiel, binoculars, telescopes and rope tunnels. The open design also makes it easy to keep an eye on everyone. Parking is plentiful and there’s usually a coffee cart (score!)
Where: Marine Parade, Southport
Inspired by local culture, Livvi’s Place integrates stories of the Indigenous Seasons Calendar for a colourful, art-filled experience. It’s packed with climbing structures, slides, a suspended rope bridge, multiple swings, a double flying fox and sensory play features suitable for all abilities. Parents will appreciate the shaded seating areas and the fully fenced layout. There are picnic tables and grassy areas, making it ideal for a snack or a family lunch. With ample parking and facilities close by, it’s a stress-free day out.
Where: 60 Boundary St, Tweed Heads
Schuster Park is jungle-themed and packed with adventure. With two mega slides (a standout), nets, tunnels, and even musical features along the sand paths, kids aged 4+ can challenge themselves while using imagination and coordination. Parents can relax in shady areas nearby while watching their little explorers tackle climbing structures and balance paths. It’s a great park for picnics, casual games, or simply letting children roam safely. Toilets and parking are on site, and the nearby Tallebudgera Creek makes it easy to extend your adventure with a splash after play.
Where: 506 Schusters Road, Tallebudgera
Kurrawa All Abilities Park is designed so every child can play, regardless of age or ability. With wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory features, slides, and inclusive play spaces, this playground is fun for the whole family. Parents can watch from shaded seating areas or picnic tables while kids explore safely. Nearby facilities, including toilets, cafes and parking, make it convenient for a long day out. It’s the ultimate playground for family adventures where everyone can join in the fun!
Where: Old Burleigh Road (opposite Elizabeth Ave), Broadbeach
Ahoy, mateys! Pirate Park is a seaside playground perfect for imaginative play. Kids can climb, swing, and slide on pirate ships and rope bridges, imagining they’re off on a big adventure. Parents can relax on benches in the shade or stroll along the beachfront while keeping an eye on their little ones. It’s a fun stop for toddlers and older children alike, with grassy areas for running and sand pits for sensory play. Toilets and parking are close by, as is Dune Cafe (recommend), so you can grab a coffee or a snack.
Where: 945 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Country Paradise Park is exactly what it sounds like: a little slice of country-themed playground heaven. Climbing frames, swings, slides, and sprawling green spaces make it perfect for family outings. The hero is an 11.5m windmill with a mega slide, accessed via a water-tank tunnel and swing bridge! There’s a variety of equipment for all ages- toddlers will enjoy smaller slides and sand areas, while older children can challenge themselves on larger climbing structures. With picnic areas, shady spots, toilets, and safe parking, it’s easy to spend a few hours here. And lucky us, there might be a cafe coming soon!
Where: 231 Beaudesert Nerang Rd, Nerang
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
