Five Horizon Festival experiences perfect for the long weekend
This May, Horizon Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary across the Sunshine Coast, marking a decade of bold regional arts and culture.
From First Nations storytelling to family-friendly markets and large-scale activations, the program makes the Sunshine Coast an ideal long-weekend destination for all ages.
Here are five standout experiences worth the short drive.
1. Burnt Earth: Bonyi Bounty
Where: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve & Tranquil Park, Maleny
When: 3 May
Time: 2pm-7pm
Tickets: Paid, bookings essential (includes all good and drinks)
Led by four First Nations chefs – Aunty Dale Chapman, Chris Jordan, Tanika Orr and Kara Pulou – the afternoon combines storytelling, fire-based cooking and slow-food rituals inspired by native ingredients. The experience begins with an optional guided rainforest walk before guests gather for canapes, drinks, shared entrees and mains, finishing with desert as the sun sets over the Glass House Mountains.
2. Saltwater Eco Tours: Connections of Land and Sea
Where: Mooloolaba Wharf
Duration: About two hours
Tickets: Paid experience, limited spots
Part river cruise, part cultural performance, this guided journey along the Mooloolah River offers a rare perspective on land, sea and story. Set aboard a beautifully restored 118-year-old timber vessel, the experience includes a Welcome to Country, cultural storytelling, live dance performances, and canapes served on board.
3. Medicinal Plants
Where: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny
When: 1-10 May
Tickets: Free
This immersive exhibition invites visitors to explore First Nations knowledge of medicinal plants, healing practices and connection to Country through stories, artworks and interactive displays. Created by Jinibara artists and knowledge holders, it’s an informative experience suited to all ages – an easy to pair with a hinterland walk or cafe stop.
4. Namba Artist Market
Where: The Old Ambulance Station, Nambour
When: 4 May
Time: 9am-3pm
Tickets: Free entry
Hosted by Bad Habit Records, this vibrant market spills into the street with stalls showcasing handmade art, ceramics, textiles, vinyl and unique gifts by Sunshine Coast makers. Food and coffee are available throughout the day, and visitors can catch live poetry performances and explore surrounding creative spaces.
5. Namba Concrete Canvas
Where: Nambour (starting at The Old Ambulance Station)
When: 4 May
Time: 2pm-3pm
Tickets: Free (registration required)
Led by local street artist Ben Hines (aka Humble Dumpling), this guided walking tour uncovers Nambour’s hidden murals, laneways and creative stories. Expect live art, pop-up performances and unexpected stops along the way.
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