Go Retro at Cooly Rocks On 2016

Coolangatta and Tweed Heads are getting ready for another rock 'n' roll takeover as Cooly Rocks On brings 50s and 60s nostalgia to the Gold Coast beachfront.

Held over 10 days from 3rd to 13th June 2016, Cooly Rocks On is Australia's biggest celebration of vintage music, cars, food and everything else from the era. And it's not only Cooly locals who get into the "swing" of things, as every year the festival draws over 100,000 attendees from far and wide.

Classic cars

With more than 1,000 custom-built, restored and preserved vintage cars lining the beachfront for two kilometres, Cooly Rocks On is one of Australia's largest car displays. You can even get in touch with the organisers to display your own proud hot rod.

Classic sounds

Whether your passion is for rockabilly, swing or old-school rock 'n' roll, you'll be spoiled for choice with the finest tribute acts and original bands flying in from all over Australia and overseas, performing more than 50 shows throughout the festival.

Retro food and crafts

For many people, the highlight of the festival isn't the music or even the cars, but the chance to take their tastebuds on a trip to another era. Try the best of classic cuisine and pick up retro crafts, vintage clothes and antiques at hundreds of market stalls.

Special events

With 10 days to fill, there's no shortage of events and competitions keeping the party atmosphere alive, and offering plenty of chances to take home fabulous prizes. See if you've got the moves and the style to be crowned Mr or Mrs Rockabilly, show off your rock 'n' roll pooch in the Poodle Parade, or have your marriage renewed by the King himself – or at least the world's number one Elvis tribute artist Dean Vegas.

2016 will also see the festival's first car and memorabilia auction, where you can buy or sell pre-70s vehicles and collectables, before the eagerly-awaited parade on the final day when Cooly Rocks On takes to the streets.

Getting there

Cooly Rocks On is based at Coolangatta Esplanade, and with indoor and outdoor stages, markets and classic cars stretching 2km along the beachfront, you can hardly miss it.

The beach is just two minutes' drive from Gold Coast Airport if you're flying in, or 30 minutes from Surfers Paradise and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Brisbane by car.

Buy tickets

Like all the best things in life, outdoor events at Cooly Rocks On are free to attend, but tickets can be purchased for special indoor shows and exhibitions.

Get your tickets online or at the venues, and get ready for a blast from the past.