Live music, food trucks and parade fun
A joyful explosion of colour, kindness and creativity is about to set the Sunshine Coast alight. The region is turning up the colour, music and community spirit with the launch of the first-ever Hot Mess Parade and Hot Mess After Party.
Part of The Rangebow Festival, these events will be held on Saturday, September 27, at Kings Beach Foreshore and Amphitheatre – and everyone is invited!
The free event will feature local talent Frank & Louis, Shanleigh Rose and The Bowery Boys alongside Madagascar-born, Réunion-based singer and composer Claudio Rabe and Ben Swissa, a Sydney-based multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and producer carving out a name with his signature blend of groove-heavy soul-pop.
It will be a wild celebration of community; the kindness, colour, and fabulous diversity that makes the Coast so special.
This is just a taster for what is to come from October 9-12 when The Rangebow Festival spreads across the Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast Council Resilient Economy Councillor Terry Landsberg said the Hot Mess Parade and After Party would be an opportunity to see something different.
It’s great to see this celebration taking place at Kings Beach, bringing the spirit of Rangebow to our coastal community,” Cr Landsberg said
“We haven’t had a parade for some time, so this will be a powerful expression of community pride and inclusion.
“Council is proud to support The Rangebow Festival through our Emerging Events funding program.
“The Hot Mess Parade is a shining example of how creative events can unite us, inspire us, and celebrate the unique character of our Sunshine Coast Biosphere.
“I encourage community groups and businesses from all over the region to register now and join in the fun.
“Come dressed loud and proud in club uniforms or group colours, in a theme or just bring your best smile and be part of this multi-coloured moment.
“Let’s celebrate who we are, together.”
Festival Director, Wayne Parcell said the community was invited to an inclusive day of celebration, music and community pride at Kings Beach for the start of The Rangebow Festival.
Everyone - performers, audience and families are encouraged to come dressed in fabulous attire," Mr Parcell said.
“Admission is free if you are dressed for fun, please register on the website to ensure you gain entry and get messy in the best way possible."
Event details - September 27, 2025
The Hot Mess Parade, 10–11am
Kings Beach Foreshore, Ormonde Terrace
Kicking off the day in true Sunny Coast style, the Hot Mess Parade is a vibrant 200m celebration of the people and groups that make this region shine. Expect Surf Life Savers, Nippers, SES, RFS, Sunny Coast Pride, drag queens, school groups, dance troupes, First Nations walkers, Compass Disability Services, and more. And the best part? You can be part of it too – costumes, colour and community welcome!
The Hot Mess After Party 11am–4pm
Kings Beach Amphitheatre
Rolling straight into the ultimate beachside bash at Kings Beach Amphitheatre, the Hot Mess After Party features free entry, a massive 5-hour celebration of live music, a sea of food trucks, and without alcohol this is a safe space for everyone with a line-up of live performances from:
- DJ Aaron (Parade beats)
- Claudio Rabe
- Ben Swissa
- Frank & Louis
- Shanleigh Rose
- The Bowery Boys
To experience The Rangebow Festival 9-12 October, checkout the festival website for the full immersive program of events: a vibrant celebration of community where art and culture unite to promote a future of inclusivity and harmony.
The Rangebow Festival is supported by the Queensland Government, through Tourism & Events Queensland and Sunshine Coast Council through the Major Events Sponsorship Program for Emerging Events.