Medical Trade Shows and Dreamy Night Markets: What’s On Today in the Gold Coast

Gold Coast Event Highlights for Thursday, 12 March 2026

Welcome to your Thursday guide for the Gold Coast. Today, March 12, 2026, the city offers a diverse blend of high-level professional gatherings, theatrical performances, and the launch of a popular evening market. Whether you are looking for cultural enrichment at HOTA or a late-night bite at a theme park, there is plenty to explore across the coast.

Nightlife and Markets

One of the highlights for this evening is the commencement of the Dreamworld Night Market. Running from today through early April, this event transforms the northern Gold Coast’s iconic theme park into a bustling culinary hub. Visitors can expect a variety of local food trucks, live music performances, and a family-friendly atmosphere that captures the vibrant coastal spirit. It is an ideal way to kick off the weekend early with great food and local talent.

Theatre and Performing Arts

For fans of the stage, the Javeenbah Theatre Company continues its season of the hit musical RENT. Set in the East Village of New York City, this Pulitzer Prize-winning story about love, survival, and creative spirit is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts. Additionally, HOTA (Home of the Arts) hosts the Class Clowns showcase at 7:00 PM tonight. This event features the next generation of Australian comedy talent as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s national development program.

Trade and Professional Events

The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre is currently hosting the Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Exhibition (APP). As the largest international pharmacy trade show in Australia, it brings thousands of industry leaders and healthcare professionals to Broadbeach for three days of workshops and networking. Simultaneously, the Magic Millions Sales Complex in Bundall is bustling with the 2026 Gold Coast March Yearling Sale, drawing bloodstock experts and equine enthusiasts from across the country.

Exhibitions and Cinema

If you prefer a quieter pace, HOTA Gallery is showcasing A Bigger View, an exhibition featuring monumental works from the National Gallery of Australia. For film lovers, the HOTA Cinema has a full schedule today including:

• Midwinter Break (9:45 AM and 6:45 PM)
• Jimpa (10:00 AM)
• Fackham Hall (11:45 AM)
• EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert (12:20 PM)
• Wuthering Heights (1:50 PM)
• The Bride! (4:25 PM)