Surfing Science and Lunar Lion Dances: Your Gold Coast Guide for Monday

Discover a Vibrant Monday on the Gold Coast

Monday, February 16, 2026, offers a diverse mix of cultural heritage, environmental advocacy, and festive celebrations across the Gold Coast. Whether you are looking to dive into the history of an ancient Roman city or join the spirited festivities of the Lunar New Year, there is something for everyone to enjoy today. From art galleries to community conferences, here is your verified guide to what’s on.

World Surfing Conservation Conference

Today marks the opening of the 2026 World Surfing Conservation Conference at Southern Cross University in Bilinga. This significant community gathering brings together ocean advocates, environmental leaders, and surf enthusiasts from around the globe. The event focuses on the intersection of cutting-edge research and real-world action to protect our coastlines. While it attracts industry heavyweights, the conference is a unique opportunity for locals to engage with global efforts to preserve the Gold Coast's iconic shoreline. Attendees can expect a series of talks by day and social mixers by night, fostering a community dedicated to ocean health.

Art and Exhibitions at HOTA

Home of the Arts (HOTA) remains a central hub for culture today with several major exhibitions open to the public. For those fascinated by history, the "Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life" exhibition is currently on display. This exhibition provides a deep dive into the daily lives, art, and culture of the ancient city preserved by Vesuvius. Additionally, the large-scale exhibition "A Bigger View" continues to showcase masterpieces from the National Gallery of Australia alongside HOTA’s own major works. For a more contemporary and immersive visual experience, visitors can head to the "Tropicana" exhibition by Bernadette Twomey, which uses bold abstraction and expressive mark-making to create a joyful atmosphere.

Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse Celebrations

The city is currently buzzing with festivities for the Lunar New Year, celebrating the Year of the Horse. This evening, Southport Sharks will host a spectacular Lion Dance performance starting at 7:30 pm. This family-friendly event is a perfect way to ring in the new year with traditional music and vibrant costumes. For those seeking a culinary celebration, the JW Marriott’s Citrique and The Langham’s T’ang Court are also hosting special Lunar New Year dining experiences today, often accompanied by roaming lion dancers and festive displays that bring good fortune and energy to the dining scene.

Cinema and Theater

If you prefer a quiet afternoon or evening at the movies, HOTA Cinema has a full schedule today. Feature films such as "Song Sung Blue" and special screenings like the Royal Opera's "La Traviata" offer a sophisticated escape from the summer heat. With its combination of international productions and indie gems, it remains the go-to spot for film buffs on the Coast.