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From 2 to 11 May 2025, the Sunshine Coast comes alive with the colour and creativity of Horizon Festival 2025.
This region-wide celebration features live music, public art, theatre, dance, workshops and cultural experiences that showcase the very best of Sunshine Coast arts and culture.
Whether you’re a local, new resident, or visiting the region, Horizon Festival is the perfect way to experience the creative heartbeat of the Sunshine Coast community.
Horizon Festival 2025 Dates, Schedule and What to Expect
Running from Friday 2 May to Sunday 11 May, the ten-day festival includes over 50 events across multiple locations.
The program offers something for everyone, including free and ticketed events, family-friendly entertainment, large-scale outdoor spectacles, and intimate arts experiences.
Browse the full line-up at horizonfestival.com.au/program and start planning your itinerary early.
Where is Horizon Festival Held? Sunshine Coast Event Locations Guide
One of the unique features of Horizon Festival is its multi-location format, giving attendees the chance to explore a variety of Sunshine Coast destinations while enjoying diverse cultural events.
Key locations include:
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Maroochydore – The Festival Precinct and central hub
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Coolum Beach – Home to outdoor cultural gatherings
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Alexandra Headland – Host of the festival’s final event, The Last Sunday
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Kenilworth – A charming hinterland town for the OK Kenilworth weekend
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Nambour – A creative hotspot with galleries and performances
This setup encourages festivalgoers to discover new areas of the Sunshine Coast throughout the event.
Horizon Festival 2025 Program Highlights and Must-See Events
With so many options, here are five must-see events from the 2025 program:
Opening Night Street Party
Maroochydore | ️ 2 May | 5–8:30pm
A high-energy, free launch event with live music, food stalls, performance art and community vibes.
Yauar Warai Wandi – Sing, Dance, Gather
Stumers Creek Park, Coolum | ️ 3 May | 1–6pm
A heartfelt First Nations cultural celebration featuring dance, song, and storytelling led by Lyndon Davis and Gubbi Gubbi Dance.
Skywhales Across Australia
Location TBA | ️ 4 May | Sunrise
Patricia Piccinini’s breathtaking hot air balloon sculptures take to the sky in an early-morning visual spectacular.
OK Kenilworth
Kenilworth | ️ 9–10 May
A weekend of music, retro charm, and culinary delights featuring Marina Allen (USA), Betty Taylor, Nice Biscuit and more.
The Last Sunday
Buhk Park, Alexandra Headland | ️ 11 May | 9am–7pm
A community day with beachside performances, food trucks, workshops, and a large-scale performance, “Us and All of This”.
Who Is Horizon Festival For? Visitors, Locals, Families & Creatives
Horizon Festival has something for every type of attendee:
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Families: Enjoy free and interactive events, especially on weekends.
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New Residents: A great introduction to the Sunshine Coast’s arts scene and community.
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Artists & Creatives: Dive into professional development, exhibitions, and collaborations.
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Visitors & Tourists: Combine your stay with one of the best Sunshine Coast events of the year.
Top Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast During Horizon Festival
Make the most of your time on the Coast by pairing events with local attractions:
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Eumundi Markets – Artisan stalls, live music and food.
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Coolum, Mooloolaba & Noosa Beaches – Relax and recharge between shows.
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Glass House Mountains – Take a hike and enjoy panoramic hinterland views.
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Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore – Shopping, dining and entertainment in one spot.
The festival is the perfect excuse for a Sunshine Coast getaway.
How to Get to Horizon Festival: Sunshine Coast Travel and Transport Tips
Getting to and around the festival is easy:
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By Car: Drive from Brisbane in approx. 90 minutes via the Bruce Highway.
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Public Transport: Catch a train to Nambour or Landsborough, with buses to Maroochydore and other key locations.
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Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY): Direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and more.
Parking is available at most venues, but ride-sharing and public transport are recommended for busy events.
Why Horizon Festival 2025 Is a Must-See Sunshine Coast Event
From sunrise balloon launches to beachside performances, Horizon Festival 2025 offers a one-of-a-kind arts experience that reflects the creative soul of the Sunshine Coast.
Whether you’re a regular attendee or joining for the first time, this year’s festival promises a rich celebration of place, people and artistic expression.
Visit horizonfestival.com.au to view the full program, book your tickets, and start planning your cultural journey.
Discover more guides on Sunshine Coast events and local living at movingtothesunshinecoast.com.au.