Rockin’ Retro: Cooly Rocks 2025
Cooly Rocks On lights up Coolangatta 4–8 June with 1000+ classic cars, Elvis tributes, dancing, music and vintage flair.
What’s Happening?
Australia’s largest nostalgia festival, Cooly Rocks On, has officially kicked off in Coolangatta, drawing tens of thousands of retro lovers to the Gold Coast from Wednesday, 4 June through Sunday, 8 June.
Set along nearly two kilometres of beachside precinct, this five-day celebration is an unmissable immersion into the music, cars, fashion and culture of the 50s, 60s, 70s—and for the first time, the 80s.
Festival Director Mark Duckworth said, “This year’s festival promises to be huge, with the renowned Show ‘N’ Shine, incredible tribute shows celebrating the music and legends we love, and the highly anticipated Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.”
Why It Matters
Cooly Rocks On continues to cement the Gold Coast’s reputation as a premier destination for cultural events and heritage festivals. The mix of free entertainment, vintage experiences, and global performances makes it a signature celebration for locals and visitors alike.
“Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to nostalgia, the beauty of Cooly Rocks On is there’s something for everyone,” said Duckworth. “Visitors can immerse themselves in an incredible program including free live music and dancing as they soak in the atmosphere.”
Local Impact
Local businesses—particularly those in hospitality, retail and tourism—see a massive uptick during the event, as Cooly Rocks On draws a national and international audience. With vintage car cruises, Pin-Up contests, and rockabilly shows spanning five packed days, the southern Gold Coast becomes a thriving hive of energy and commerce.
By the Numbers
Over 150,000 attendees joined Cooly Rocks On in 2024, with even more expected in 2025.
More than 1,000 pre-1979 vehicles are on display for free across seven zones.
The Pin-Up Pageant features over 60 entrants, and the UETA Contest winner will compete at Elvis Week in Memphis.
Zoom In
Opening day sees a high-energy celebration with appearances from:
Pin-Up Pageant finalist Alice Litzow (aka Lady Love Bug)
2024 Pin-Up Winner and current judge Angie Lowe (aka Reckless Penny)
Swing band Eliza Stark & The Dappers making their Australian debut
Sam Clarke, showing off his custom-built 1930 Ford A Roadster Hot Rod
Elvis fans are in for a treat: opening night welcomes Ted Torres Martin (USA), Toki Toyokazu (JPN), and Che Orton (NZ) for Heart of the King. Friday night brings Jay Dupuis to the Elvis Marquee with Any Given Night in Las Vegas – 1972.
The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest (UETA) returns, with the 2025 winner heading to Memphis to compete in Elvis Week for the title of world’s best tribute artist.
Zoom Out
The 2025 edition expands the experience with a dedicated 80s Zone—showcasing cars built between 1980 and 1985. “This year also has an 80s twist, with a newly curated 80s zone specifically for cars manufactured between 1980 and 1985 which will introduce a whole new generation to the festival,” said Duckworth.
Cooly Rocks On also features:
Show ‘N’ Shine car showcase, proudly presented by Autoglym
Kustomville, celebrating lowbrow art and custom culture
Saturday Night Car Cruise and afternoon Car Runs to Go Bowling Ashmore and Yatala Drive-In
Rockabilly legend Scotty Baker returning after international touring
Free live music from The Linelockers, Lucky Seven, Johnny Pandora, Kieron McDonald Combo, The Australian Rolling Stones Show, SOS: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show, and The Dusty Springfield Show
What to Look For Next?
Secure last-minute tickets for:
Moonlight Swing Dance – Thursday night at the Elvis Marquee
Beachside Rock ‘N’ Roll Dance – Sunday evening farewell
Elvis Karaoke After Party – Sunday night encore
Cooly Rocks On is proudly produced by Experience Gold Coast and supported by the Queensland Government via Tourism and Events Queensland.
For the full program and ticket information, visit: coolyrockson.com