DinoFest and Prehistoric Wonders Lead Today's Gold Coast Events

School Holiday Magic Hits the Coast

As the April school holidays swing into full gear this Tuesday, 7 April 2026, the Gold Coast is buzzing with family-friendly activities and cultural exhibitions. From life-sized dinosaurs in the hinterland to international art collections at the heart of the city, today offers a diverse range of entertainment options for locals and visitors alike. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or a sophisticated gallery experience, the city has curated a schedule that spans across every major precinct.

DinoFest Stomps into Nerang

The headline attraction today is undoubtedly DinoFest, which has taken over Country Paradise Parklands in Nerang. This outdoor prehistoric adventure is a must-visit for families, featuring more than 30 life-sized, walking, and interactive dinosaurs. Visitors can witness realistic animatronics, including a roaring T-Rex and a motherly Triceratops. The event includes a 45-minute Dinosaur Encounter and a dedicated Dino Trail where children can participate in fossil digs and themed arts and crafts. It is an immersive educational experience that brings the Mesozoic era to life right in our backyard.

Cultural Highlights at HOTA

For those seeking a more refined Tuesday, HOTA (Home of the Arts) in Bundall is hosting several major exhibitions today. The gallery is currently featuring the world-class exhibition, Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life, which provides a rare look at the artifacts and culture of the ancient Roman city. Additionally, visitors can explore Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart, a powerful showcase by First Nations artist Lisa Sorbie Martin. If you are in the mood for a film, the HOTA Cinema is running a holiday schedule today, including screenings of the highly anticipated Project Hail Mary and the family favorite The Magic Faraway Tree.

Dreamworld’s Global Flavors

The excitement continues at Dreamworld with the ongoing Street Food Festival. Today, the park transforms into a culinary hub with three vibrant zones representing Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Guests can enjoy everything from traditional dumplings and bratwurst to loaded burgers and churros while being entertained by live Latin dancers and Japanese drumming. Today also falls within Easter Bilby Week at the park, offering younger children a chance to participate in a special bilby scavenger hunt and cookie decorating workshops.

Community Meetups and Creative Workshops

• Kids Botanical Drawing: Head to Benowa at 10:30 AM for a hands-on workshop designed to teach children the basics of botanical illustration in a fun, supportive environment.
• Library School Holiday Programs: Local Gold Coast libraries are hosting free creative workshops and storytelling sessions throughout the day to keep young minds active.
• Creek Exploration: Discover the hidden ecosystems of the Tallebudgera Valley with guided nature-based play and waterbug exploration sessions starting this morning.