Shoreline to sidelines: February fires up with events
From sporting action to lantern-lit nights on the lake, February is shaping up as an exciting month on the Sunshine Coast events calendar.
Locals and visitors can dive into a thrilling array of experiences spanning sport, culture and community — all set against our iconic beaches, waterways and venues.
Sunshine Coast Resilient Economy Portfolio Councillor Joe Natoli said hosting a wide range of events across our coastline, stadiums and waterways supported local jobs and tourism and strengthened community connection.
“From international cruise visitors to elite sporting competitions, these events help showcase the Sunshine Coast as a destination that’s ready, capable and proud to welcome visitors and competitors from across Queensland and beyond,” Cr Natoli said.
Floating into February
On Sunday, 8 February, the Viking Sky cruises into our waters, carrying around 1,000 passengers on a 121-day, one-way journey from Los Angeles to London-Tilbury via Mooloolaba.
This will bring visitors to the region and add a welcome buzz to the waterfront, local businesses and attractions. It’s also a great opportunity for locals to see this striking luxury liner off our coastline.
Just a week later, Lake Kawana will glow on Sunday, 15 February, from the twilight Water Lantern Festival, offering an unforgettable evening of floating lanterns, live music and family-friendly festivities under the stars.
Big crowds, big energy, big sport
Sport takes centre stage throughout February, starting with NRL trial action as the Broncos take on the Falcons at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday, 14 February, followed by the NRL Pre‑season Challenge between the Storm and Titans on Saturday, 21 February (tickets essential).
Surf sports fans will also be treated to elite competition when the 2026 Queensland Surf Life Saving Championships hit Maroochydore Beach from 19 February to 1 March, bringing together Youth (19–22 February), Masters (27–28 February) and Senior (27 February – 1 March) competitors from across the state.
The water sports extravaganza continues when Dragon boats take to Lake Kawana on Sunday, 22 February, delivering high-energy racing and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Rounding out the month, the Aged and Disability Expo will be held at Caloundra Indoor Stadium on 27–28 February, providing valuable information, services and support for seniors, people with a disability and their carers.
Sunshine Coast Division 3 Councillor Tim Burns said February’s events calendar reflected what made the Sunshine Coast such a special place — inclusive, active and deeply connected.
“Whether it’s families enjoying the Water Lantern Festival, sporting fans cheering from the sidelines or people finding support at the Aged and Disability Expo, these events bring our community together in meaningful ways, Cr Burns said.”
Love, live music and Lunar New Year lights
For future Bride & Grooms not participating in MAFS (Married at First Sight), check out the Sunshine Coast Wedding Showcase at Venue 114 on Valentine’s Day weekend - Sunday, 15 February.
There’s no shortage of options for music lovers at local venues, including Birds of Tokyo, Transvision Vamp, The Amity Affliction, 8 Ball Aitken, Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks, Bootleg Rascal and Regurgitator to name a few.
Lastly, what better way to finish February then to celebrate the new year all over again. The Sunshine Coast Chinese Association is hosting the Aussie World Lantern Festival to celebrate the Lunar New Year on Saturday 28 February.
With something happening every weekend, February is the perfect time to get out, get involved and soak up everything the Sunshine Coast has to offer.
Check out details for these events and even more at: