St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans and Cultural Highlights: Gold Coast’s Top Tuesday Picks

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the Heart of the Coast

Today, Tuesday, 17 March 2026, the Gold Coast is awash in emerald green as the city celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you are looking for the lively atmosphere of an Irish pub or a quiet afternoon exploring local art, there is a wealth of activities to keep you engaged throughout the day.

Traditional Festivities at D’Arcy Arms

The Gold Coast’s oldest Irish pub, D’Arcy Arms in Surfers Paradise, is hosting the grand finale of its three-day St. Patrick’s Festival. Starting early today, the venue features back-to-back entertainment with live music from Mark Butler and Salliana 7. Visitors can enjoy the festive 'craic' in a massive outdoor marquee or at the Shamrock Bar. Traditional fare is the order of the day, with a menu featuring hearty beef and Guinness pie, beer-battered sausages with curry sauce, and spice bags. High-energy performances from the Carolan Academy of Irish Dance and the Gold Coast Pipe Band are expected to draw large crowds, making this the primary destination for traditional celebrations.

Broadbeach Beats at Den Devine

For those in the Broadbeach area, Den Devine Restaurant and Music Lounge is hosting an epic St. Patrick’s celebration. The day is packed with live Irish music, Jameson giveaways, and a "Catch the Leprechaun" contest. Patrons have the chance to win prizes including a month's supply of Guinness. This venue is known for its intimate music-first atmosphere, providing a perfect spot for those who want to experience toe-tapping tunes and traditional Irish fayre in a bustling central precinct.

Cultural Immersion at HOTA

If you prefer a more contemplative Tuesday, HOTA (Home of the Arts) in Bundall is open for a dose of culture. A highlight today is the exhibition "HOTA Collects: Metamorphosis." This exhibition showcases works from more than thirty Australian artists from the HOTA Collection, exploring themes of identity and memory through transformative art forms like collage and assemblage. Featured artists include iconic names such as Brett Whiteley and Rosalie Gascoigne. It is a fantastic opportunity to see how artists repurpose modern materials to create new meaning.

Community Meetups and Library Workshops

For those seeking local community connection, Gold Coast Libraries are running several sessions today:

• Knitting Ladies at Southport: A friendly get-together for craft enthusiasts starting at 9:00 AM at the Southport Library.
• LEGO Drop-In at Upper Coomera: A creative session for builders of all ages from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, perfect for families after school.
• Chair Yoga: A wellness session for adults focused on deep stretching and stability, held at various library branches mid-morning.

Afternoon Jazz Tributes

Rounding out the day, music lovers can find a sophisticated escape with "The Jazz Room," a tribute to legends Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong. This ongoing series offers a smooth alternative to the high-energy pub celebrations, focusing on the golden age of jazz and swing.