The Cooly Rocks On festival is a popular and unique music and car show in Coolangatta. It boasts many classic car displays, vintage outfits, live music, dancing, and pageants.
This 5-day car show is one of the region’s major events and attracts thousands of visitors to the Gold Coast year after year.
Cooly Rocks On 2025 Dates & Program Schedule, Hotel Accommodation
Renowned as one of Australia’s best Show ’N’ Shine displays, Coolangatta will be transported back in time as the streets are lined with over 900 incredible cars at Cooly Rocks On’s Show ‘N’ Shine display, proudly presented by Autoglym. Discover the best hot rods, kustom vehicles and lowbrow art in Kustomville, then wander through Goodwin Park and get up close to a massive variety of vehicles, scooters, bikes and more!
For the die-hard motor enthusiasts, take part in this incredible display by showcasing your pride and joy, or partake in one of two (or why not both) Car Runs!
Put on your best dancing shoes and boogie to the tunes of yesteryear you know and love! Cooly Rocks On packs a punch every year with an incredible lineup of some of the best rock ’n’ roll, swing, rockabilly and tribute artists from around the world.
In a unique offering, Cooly Rocks On is also only one of three festivals in Australia to host an official preliminary round of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, an Elvis Presley Enterprises sanctioned event, with the winner heading straight to Elvis Week in Memphis.
Now, to put the cherry on top, Cooly Rocks On wouldn’t be the festival it is without celebrating the lifestyle of yesteryear. The Cooly Rocks On Pin-up Pageant celebrates the classic and rockabilly styles, and the Cooly Rocks On Moonlight Swing Dance, a 1940s style shindig that provides plenty of time for attendees to dance the night away.
There’s also the newly added Beachside Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance for those wanting to keep their feet busy on the dance floor. But that’s not all! You’ll have the chance to shop a range of retro goods, vintage finds and memorabilia from the eras gone by with a huge number of markets along the beachfront.
With so much to see and do, there’s something for everyone at Cooly Rocks On. We’ll see you there!
2025 Feature Shows
Craving the unforgettable tunes of the 50s, 60s and 70s? Cooly Rocks On 2025 is your ultimate destination!
Get ready to experience a spectacular lineup of Tribute Artists celebrating the biggest legends in music history. From the King of Rock ’N’ Roll, Elvis Presley, to the dazzling ABBA, the iconic Rolling Stones and the soulful Dusty Springfield – this is your chance to relive the golden era of music.
Don’t just hear the hits; feel the magic! Secure your spot now for an unforgettable blast from the past.
HEART OF THE KING – FEATURING TED TORRES MARTIN, TOKI TOYOKAZU AND CHE ORTON
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as international stars Ted Torres Martin (USA), Che Orton (NZL) and 2024 Cooly Rocks On Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest winner, Toki Toyokazu (JPN) take the stage to pay tribute to the Heart of the King!
From the joyous energy of his young love songs to the deep emotion in iconic ballads, be reminded of the passion and soul Elvis poured into every note.
Location: Elvis Marquee
When: Wednesday 4 June, 7:30PM
Price: $40 Silver, $50 Gold + booking fee
JAY DUPUIS – ANY GIVEN NIGHT IN LAS VEGAS – 1972
Claiming the prestigious title of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist at Elvis Week in 2014, Jay Dupuis will bring his incredible mastery of Elvis’ voice, style, and magnetic charisma to Cooly Rocks On.
Step back in time to 1972, when Elvis electrified audiences during his legendary 7th Las Vegas season at The Hilton. These shows were known for their high energy, irresistible charisma, and evolving musical style – exactly what Jay will deliver.
Location: Elvis Marquee
When: Friday 6 June, 5:00PM
Price: $55 Silver, $65 Gold + booking fee
THE AUSTRALIAN ROLLING STONES SHOW
Prepare to be out of your seat when The Australian Rolling Stones Show comes to Cooly Rocks On! Since 2009, brothers Stu and Tim Greenwood have clocked up over a thousand performances, making them THE most successful Rolling Stones tribute show in Australia.
Don’t miss this powerhouse live show, set to deliver all the classics and memories in the true R&B spirit.
Location: Elvis Marquee
When: Friday 6 June, 8:30PM
Price: $40 Silver, $50 Gold + booking fee
THE DUSTY SPRINGFIELD SHOW
Join Wendy Stapleton, who starred as Dusty in the original production of I Only Want To Be With You: The Dusty Springfield Story, on a vibrant journey through the hits that made Dusty a global sensation.
From the 60s through to the 80s, witness the rise of Britain’s greatest female pop singer in this stunning tribute.
Location: Elvis Marquee
When: Saturday 7 June, 12:30PM
Price: $40 General Admission, $50 Premium + booking fee
SOS: THE AUSTRALIAN ABBA SHOW
Transport back to the era when ABBA dominated the world stage! Featuring dazzling costumes, choreography and a high-energy band, sing and dance your heart out to the greatest hits, from hot disco favourites like Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight) and Dancing Queen, to heartfelt ballads like The Winner Takes It All.
Location: Elvis Marquee
When: Saturday 7 June, 7:30PM
Price: $50 + booking fee
ELVIS KARAOKE AFTER PARTY
Don’t miss the ultimate finale and your chance to shine! Belt out your favourite hits as we fire up the karaoke machine, blasting the King’s greatest tunes and more. Join VIP Legends Pass holders, UETA contestants, performers, the band and the Cooly Rocks On team for an unforgettable night as we say farewell to another epic festival.
Location: Twin Towns Resorts & Clubs – River Room
When: Sunday 8 June, 6:00PM
Price: $69 General Admission + booking fee
Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
Get ready to shake, rattle and roll with the return of the annual Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist (UETA) Contest!
As one of only three UETA Contests in Australia sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises, be captivated from the very first moment as Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) contestants battle it out for the ultimate prize – the chance to represent Cooly Rocks On at the International Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest as part of Elvis Week at Graceland.
Experience the thrill of the competition as these talented performers showcase their skills over three days. Then, enjoy exclusive priority access to meet and greets with the ETAs after each round.
WHEN: Thursday 5 June | 10:00AM, Friday 6 June | 11:30AM, Sunday 8 June | 11:00AM
LOCATION: Elvis Marquee
Show ‘n’ Shine
Walk down memory lane through the number one Cooly Rocks On highlight – the Show ‘N’ Shine proudly presented by Autoglym! Get up close and personal as you admire over 900 vehicles from yesteryear, including classics, customs, hot rods and muscle cars as well as a new 80s zone, featuring a spectacular curated zone of vehicles from 1980-1985!
The incredible display will span nearly two kilometres of Coolangatta, where car enthusiasts from all corners of Australia will whip out the polish and rumble their prized possessions to the streets of Cooly.
Take a photo and chat with the owners as you walk along the spectacular beachfront, streets, and alleys. Then, wander over to Kustomville and Goodwin Park to check out even more impressive car action!
WHEN: Thursday 4 June – Sunday 8 June
LOCATION: Marine Parade, Griffith Street and Goodwin Park
Saturday Night Car Cruise
The Saturday Night Car Cruise is back for Cooly Rocks On 2025!
Experience the thrill as Coolangatta’s streets come to life with a vibrant parade of classic cars from the eras gone by. With four designated viewing areas along Marine Parade, immerse yourself in the lights and sounds as these timeless cars roll by.
WHEN: From 6pm on Saturday 7 June
LOCATION: Departing from Hill Street
Moonlight Swing Dance
Step back in time for the ultimate night out at the Moonlight Swing Dance! Channel the glamour and energy of the swing era as you hit the dance floor to some of the best swing music performed by Lucky Seven.
Arrive in style with a red carpet welcome to the Elvis Marquee and a complimentary glass of bubbly to kick things off. Tickets are limited, so don’t wait—secure yours now for a night of unforgettable fun.
WHEN: Thursday 5 June | 7:00PM
LOCATION: Elvis Marquee
PRICE: $39 + booking fee
Beachside Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance
Get ready to lace up those dancing shoes because Cooly Rocks On 2025 is bringing the party to the beach! Don’t miss the Beachside Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance, where the Elvis Marquee transforms into the ultimate dance floor. With live entertainment from Kris Knight & the Boogey Man, and plenty of space to twist, jive, and boogie the night away, this is your chance to let loose and say farewell to Cooly Rocks On 2025.
Please note: There will be limited seating inside the Elvis Marquee, available on a first-come, first-served basis. When you need to rest your feet, take a breather outside in the bar area, where there will be seating and snacks available to purchase.
WHEN: Sunday 8th June | 5:30PM
LOCATION: Elvis Marquee
PRICE: $30 + booking fee
Cooly rocks on Pin-Up Pageant
Celebrating yesteryear’s timeless fashions, looks and lifestyle, get ready to be dazzled by our talented pageant finalists at the Cooly Rocks On Pin-up Pageant! With three entertaining rounds that feature the ‘Classic’ and ‘Rockabilly’ styles that have come to define the festival, the Cooly Rocks On Pin-up Pageant welcomes talents from all walks of life.
Come witness the spotlight shine on each Pin-up as they grace the stage with their beauty and talents!
Markets
If you’re a lover of retro goods and memorabilia, or love a good vintage find, definitely don’t miss the markets at Cooly Rocks On!
Located along the Coolangatta beachfront and operating daily throughout the festival, the market features a wide range of curated goods from local businesses and traders.
Rock On Dance Workshops
Rock on in and learn a thing or two at the Cooly Rocks On Rock On Dance Workshops.
Enjoy five days of learning various dance styles, including Rock ‘n’ Roll, Swing, Rockabilly, Balboa and more as you heat the floor to everyone’s favourite hits – you’re bound to learn a thing or two. Partners are not required, all skill levels are covered and welcome.
With free Social Dancing at the end of each day, you can keep your hips moving long into the night.
Getting There
With hundreds of cars lining the streets of Coolangatta during the festival, local road closures will occur in and around the festival precinct. As such, parking in the surrounding areas of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads will be limited during festival dates.
Where possible, we recommend that you plan to walk, cycle, carpool or use public transport to get to Cooly Rocks On.
By Air
Coming from interstate? Gold Coast Airport is located only a few kilometres away from Coolangatta, with a drive of fewer than 5 minutes. A range of international and domestic carriers fly directly into the airport, including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas and Air New Zealand. Find out more here!
Plenty of buses leaving from the airport, such as bus route 760, can take you directly to Coolangatta. You can also call a taxi or rideshare service.
By Local Bus
Multiple bus routes travel to Coolangatta from all directions of the Gold Coast and Northern NSW, with the most frequent being bus routes 700, 760, and 768.
By Train or G:LINK Light Rail
If you are travelling from the Northern Gold Coast or Brisbane regions, you can transfer from the train to the G:link (Gold Coast Light Rail) at Helensvale Station.
We recommend departing the G:link at the Broadbeach South Station, walking to Station’s Stop A, and catching the 700 Bus to Griffith Street, Coolangatta – the heart of Cooly Rocks On.
By Taxi / Ride Share
13cabs: 13 2227
Black & White Cabs: 133 222
Tweed Heads Taxi Service: 1300 656 818
Drop off/Pick up: Located on Lanham Street.
By Lime ebikes
Staying close to the festival? Throughout the Gold Coast, you will find electric-assist bike rentals, Lime-E. Download the Lime app to locate the closest Lime-E to you, scan the QR code to unlock it, and cycle your way to Cooly Rocks On.
Parking Around Coolangatta
In 2024, the parking options below were available within walking distance of the festival. Please note that all regular parking laws and restrictions apply in and around the festival precinct.
- Jarvis Lane ($15/day on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June): Parking spaces are limited.
- The Strand Shopping Centre (Free for the first 2 hours, hourly rates apply): Access via Warner Street during festival.
- Coolangatta State School (Available on Saturday and Sunday only for $10 per car): Access via Appel Street.
- Tweed Heads Public School (Available on Saturday and Sunday only for $15 day parking & $25 overnight parking): Access via Stuart Street.
Parking in Surrounding Suburbs
Multiple public buses are travelling to Coolangatta from all directions of the Gold Coast. You may also park and ride in the following locations and utilise public transport.
Broadbeach
6,500 Car Parking Spaces in Pacific Fair Shopping Centre (5 hours free parking, hourly rates apply after)
1,000 Car Parking Spaces in The Oasis Shopping Centre (3 hours free parking, hourly rates apply after)
100 Car Parking Spaces in Jubilee Avenue Car Park ($3.30 per hour or $16 daily)
Surfers Paradise
1,600 Car Parking Spaces at Bruce Bishop Carpark ($3.30 per hour or $16 daily)
Paradise Centre (Starting rate of $10)
Robina
6,000 Car Parking Spaces in Robina Town Centre (free parking)
945 Car Parking Spaces at Robina Train Station (please check for signs when parking for time limits and prices)
Varsity Lakes
395 Car Parking Spaces at Varsity Lakes Train Station (please check for signs when parking for time limits and prices)
Many people would like to know the actual Line-Up for Cooly rocks On 2021 so that we can plan our schedule..
We can’t find it anywhere. no mention of Bands, Artists, Venues, times or anything. Very Frustrating !
Hi John,
I know exactly where you are coming from. As I just run a local tourism information website, I do rely on the official event sources for all of my information.
I actually updated my page last week, but as you found, there is little information available at this stage, with the event schedule and some of the venues haven’t been confirmed.
All I can suggest is to follow their Facebook page and check their official website for any new information. Otherwise, you can try to reach them on 1300 035 189 or info@coolyrockson.com for information they might not have made public yet.
Trying to view and print program of bands and being hassled into a heap of download requests and nothing opens, very frustrating.
Can you please email me a program to bob.edwards.1953@gmail.com
Thank you
Sharon
Hi Sharon,
Click the link here which will take you to a PDF version of the Cooly Rocks On program schedule for 2018.
Best regards,
Jess
Trying to find out what bands are playing, where and when? Went on line but can only find the 2017 listing.
Hi Lance,
Expressions of interest are still open for artists who wish to perform at Cooly Rocks On, so the performance schedule will not be finalised for a few months it seems. Check back with us as I will update our page once the details are confirmed.
Best regards,
Jess
Hi Like Lance I am trying to find a band schedule where and when. Could you help me here please. Anne
Hi Anne,
The organisers of Cooly Rocks On have released parts of the 2018 program schedule online. This is what we have so far:
– Shannons Show n’ Shine: Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th June 2018. Over 1,000 classic cars (pre-1970’s) will be on display in special locations in Tweed, Kirra & Coolangatta.
– Street Parade: Saturday 9 June 2018. A parade along the beachfront which will stretch for 2kms. Filled with classic cars, floats, bikes, music and so much more!
– Miss Cooly Rocks On 2018: Thursday 7 June 2018, from 6pm. Come and watch some beautiful ladies compete with their unique vintage looks for an amazing prize.
– Shannons SuperCruise: Saturday 9th June 2018, 6-8pm. Check out cars in action as they cruise Marine Parade and Griffith Street in Coolangatta.
– Poodles and Pugs Parade: Sunday 10th June 2018, 10-11.30am The popular poodle parade is back with competitions for Best in Show, Best Groomed, Best Dog Trick, Waggiest Tail, Cute Factor and Owner and Pooch Lookalike.
– Dance Workshops: Friday 8th June 2018 & Sunday 10th June 2018. Warner Stage, Greenmount Stage and Jack Evans Stage.
couple weeks out and no bands people come for music not the other crap what the hells going on
Hi Terry,
I’m sorry that you are so upset, but it appears you have simply had trouble locating the page. The lineup of musicians has been announced here.
Best regards,
Jess
We have just booked for Cooly Rocks 2018. Can you tell me, do you have free buses from Palm Beach to Coolangatta? If not can you tell me what the cost of the buses are? Thank you.
Hi Drina,
Yes, Park ‘n’ Ride will be available again in 2018, but details are yet to be confirmed about the bus route and cost. Check back in early 2018 as I will update our page once the organisers confirm details.
Best regards,
Jess
Now middle of may and I too am Waiting to hear about park n ride,also the coolyrockson site has a site map in colours but not key to what these mean.
Hi Ruth,
Not sure what to tell you beyond what is already posted on our page. I am also waiting for further details to be released. Perhaps contact the organisers directly to see if they can enlighten you about the map and Park n Ride on (07) 5534 3500.
Regards,
Jess
Hi, this will be our first time attending Coolies 2017 and we are bringing up a car. Do we have to nominate to go into the parade or do we just show up? Is there a cost? Thanks
Hi Andrew,
Yes you need to register to take part in the parade. Check the official Facebook page, I am told that entries will hopefully be open later this week. As for the cost, not sure. No doubt that will be announced when registration opens.
Kind regards,
Jess
How many days will there be music for dancing. This is our first time there and we booked for two weeks 3rd to 17th
Hi Louise,
The 2017 program has yet to be released, but in previous years there has been music on each of the days. As for the type (acoustic, DJ, live band), please check back with us and I will update the page once the information is released.
Kind regards,
Jess
Has the festival been shortened for 2017?
Hi Peta,
Yes. The 2016 Cooly Rocks ran for 10 days, but the current information for 2017 is that it will run only between 7-11 June 2017.
Best regards,
Jess
I can’t work this out. One minute you are saying it is shortened will run for 3 days, next it is saying going from June 2 until June 12?
Hi Drina,
Cooly Rocks On has confirmed the dates as 7-11 June 2017.
In previous years, the festival has run for a longer period. The organisers had stated they would run a shorter festival in 2017 and, back in July 2016, advised that the festival would run between 2-12 June. These dates were updated in November 2016 and we updated our page accordingly. We aim to keep the most up to date information on our page at any given time, so I apologise for your confusion.
Have a great time at Cooly Rocks On in 2017!
Kind regards,
Jess
Hi, can you please tell me what date the dance competition is for Cooly Rocks and advise where we can get an entry form please, we are planning our dates. Kind regards, Threse
Hi Threse,
The event organisers are yet to advise dates for competitions. I suggest you check back with us in January/February, as this is when applications for food stalls and car entry will be open. I anticipate more information will come to hand around then.
Best regards,
Jess
Hi can you tell me what day the street parade will be held in 2017 please?
Hi Debbie,
The date has not yet been confirmed but the street parade usually occurs on the second Saturday of the festival. If the organisers keep with this tradition, it would make it the 10th of June. Check back with us and I will update the page once details are confirmed.
Regards,
Jess
What are the dates for coolies Rock in 2017? As I want to book accommodation early. Thankyou
Hi Margaret, thanks for contacting us.
Cooly Rocks On will be held from 2 – 12 June 2017.
If you are looking for accommodation close to the event, click the link here which will take you to a full range of options.
Best Regards,
Jess
When is the big parade on for all the cars?
Hi Graham,
The parade will be held on Saturday 11th of June along Marine Parade from Kirra to Coolangatta. Unfortunately the organisers have not specified a time as yet.
I will keep my eye out for any further information and update the page when it is to hand.
Enjoy Cooly Rocks for 2016!
Regards,
Jess
Is there a street parade on after 5:30 on saturday , 11 june 2016 with the cars going around the block, we have been going every year, I cant see it advertised. Please let me know, thànk you, Kaz
Hi All,
The organisers have now announced that the street parade will commence from 9am on Saturday 11th of June.
Enjoy the festival!
Regards,
Jess
Hi, do you know where the best place to park would be?
Hi Eileen,
I have attached a link to the road closures as well as the “park and ride” service which has a pick up and drop off service for a small fee.
You can find the link here.
Enjoy the Cooly Rocks On festival!
Regards,
Jess
Are you having the Poodle Oodle Parade this year? If so, what day and where can I register my poodle to enter the competition?
Hi Louise,
Yes, the Poodle Oodle Parade will be held during Cooly Rocks On on Sunday 12 June 2016.
I have attached the entry form here which you will need to forward on to the organisers. Entry is free.
Enjoy Cooly Rocks On 2016!
Can you send a program please?
Hi John,
There is no single program which covers all events, so the images on our page cover most of the entertainment scheduling.
Click the link here for more information.
Enjoy the festival!
Regards,
Jess
Hi can you please tell me what is the best day to see the cars on display as we would be interested in travelling up from Sydney.
Hi Anne, thanks for contacting us.
If you are interested in cars, then the best days to attend are the 11th & 12th where you will see over 1300 pre 1970 cars park up in the streets.
These two days are the largest on the festival calendar with heaps of other entertainment as well including shows, markets and competitions.
Enjoy your trip up to the Gold Coast for Cooly Rocks On 2016!
Regards,
Jess
Having not been to the event before can you tell me what time the street parade starts and where……
Thanks
Hi Kathryn,
The parade will be held on Saturday 11th of June along Marine Parade from Kirra to Coolangatta. Unfortunately the organisers have not specified a time as yet.
I will keep my eye out for any further information and update the page when it is to hand.
Enjoy Cooly Rocks for 2016!
Regards,
Jess
Is Lance Lipinski coming back to Cooly Rocks On?
Hi, thanks for your question.
Unfortunately it doesn’t appear that Lance Lipinski is part of the 2016 lineup.
Check back closer to the date as the festival organisers are yet to release the final program for 2016.
Regards,
Jess
How do we enter our car and is there a cost to enter?
Hi Danielle,
Your car can be entered with the official organisers here and the cost is between $35-$50.
Regards,
Jess
We would like to know what your line up for Coolies bands are for 2015. And are the Atomic Hi tones coming this year they are the best band around. Cheers
Hi Colin,
Looking at the official website, it looks like they are yet to release their official schedule. The only acts that have been listed in are Si Cranstoun and Pat Capocci. Their Facebook page however, has announced that The Hi-Boys will also be performing.
As for the Atomic Hi tones, there hasn’t been anything listed on their Facebook page, or the Cooly Hotel guide guide, so unfortunately no information at this point.
Keep your eyes peeled as we are just over 3 months away and I am sure they will update their information soon.
Thanks
Michael