Horizon Festival, the Sunshine Coast’s premier celebration of people, place and possibility, returns from 1–10 May 2026 with 10 days of creativity and unforgettable experiences across the region.
From joyous sunset performances along the coast to tranquil hinterland settings and music energising our urban streets, Horizon Festival marks its 10th year in 2026 with a world-class program of more than 35 unique events across the region.
The festival is expected to welcome more than 24,000 visitors and features a program spanning First Nations-led gatherings, immersive food experiences, dance and performance, live music, visual art, family adventures and workshops, each crafted to spark wonder and connection.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the festival’s 10-year milestone highlighted the event’s growing success and significance within the region and its broader reputation for creativity and boldness.
“Horizon Festival is a unique reflection of the Sunshine Coast. It is a festival for our region, by our region, and its high-quality performances and exciting experiences regularly attract visitors from across Australia,” Mayor Natoli said.
“At its heart, Horizon is about community and connection. It invites us to see our landscape differently, to gather in surprising places and to discover how art deepens our understanding of each other and of this extraordinary region. It is a celebration of our community.”
Program highlights
Opening Night Party (1 May), Kings Beach, Caloundra: Horizon Festival launches its 10th anniversary with a free, all ages celebration at Kings Beach, Caloundra. The opening night features live music from local artists, family activities, food and drinks, and a high energy atmosphere celebrating creativity, connection and play.
Yauar Warai Wandi – Sing, Dance, Gather (2 May), Norrie Job Park, Coolum Beach: A sunset gathering at Coolum Beach celebrating living relationships between flora, fauna and Country. This First Nations led event honours connections across Gubbi Gubbi, Jinibara, Quandamooka and Butchulla Country through contemporary and traditional performance, music, ceremony and sculpture.
M’ap Boulé (2 and 3 May), The Old Ambo, Nambour: Meaning “I’m on fire” in Haitian Creole, this powerful music performance is a celebration of culture, connection and resistance. Led by the charismatic Nancy Denis, the work traces her journey embracing her Black, Queer, Haitian and Australian identities.
Burnt Earth: Bonyi Bounty (3 May), Burnt Earth, Maleny: An immersive sensory dining experience set in an ancient rainforest with sweeping views of the Glasshouse Mountains. Three local First Nations chefs collaborate to explore native ingredients and cooking rituals, culminating in a spectacular three course meal.
Family Film Night (9 May), Baringa Forest Park, Baringa: A celebration of 30 years of Australian classic Babe with an outdoor screening at Baringa Forest Park. Audiences can enjoy live music from Junior Burger, a real live farm animal petting zoo, and local food vendors and a sunset setting before the beloved film lights up the night.
Horizon Dance Hall (10 May), Nambour State College, Nambour: The Festival’s free, all ages finale brings a full day of music and movement to the Sunshine Coast. Dance styles from around the world including boot scooting, hip hop, samba, swing and bush dance, culminate in a closing workshop and DJ set from Sydney’s line dancing favourites, Saddle Club.
