Aussie World Lantern Festival and Iconic Hinterland Markets Shine Today

Celebrate Culture and Community on the Coast

Saturday, February 28, 2026, promises a vibrant mix of cultural celebration and long-standing community traditions across the Sunshine Coast. As the region transitions into the final weekend of February, locals and visitors have a diverse range of activities to choose from, ranging from early-morning market hunts to an enchanting evening of lights and performances in Palmview.

Evening Magic: Aussie World Lantern Festival

The headline event for this Saturday is the 2026 Lunar New Year Lantern Festival, held at Aussie World in Palmview. Organised by the Sunshine Coast Chinese Association, this cultural spectacle officially marks the celebration of the Lunar New Year—the Year of the Horse—with a focus on light, heritage, and family fun. The event runs from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and transforms the theme park into a glowing wonderland.

Attendees can expect a packed program featuring traditional Chinese lion dances, musical performances, and vibrant cultural displays. The park will be adorned with intricate lantern installations, providing a stunning backdrop for the evening. Food is a major draw for the festival, with stalls offering authentic traditional cuisine. Visitors are encouraged to try Tangyuan, a sweet rice ball dessert traditionally served during the Lantern Festival to symbolise family unity. Admission is family-friendly, with tickets priced at approximately $11 per person, offering a unique way to experience the theme park under the stars.

Morning Tradition: The Original Eumundi Markets

For those who prefer a morning start, the world-renowned Eumundi Markets are open today from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Located on Memorial Drive, this is Australia’s premier artisan market and a cornerstone of the Sunshine Coast social calendar. Today is the perfect opportunity to browse stalls filled with handmade furniture, local fashion, and original artworks. The market is famous for its "make it, bake it, grow it" philosophy, ensuring that almost everything you find is locally sourced or produced. Beyond the shopping, the atmosphere is bolstered by live street performers and some of the best gourmet coffee and street food in the hinterland.

Local Flavours: Yandina Country Markets

Further south, the Yandina Country Markets offer a more rustic, local experience from 6:00 AM until 12:00 PM on North Street. This market is a must-visit for gardening enthusiasts and home cooks. It is widely considered the best place on the coast to find affordable native plants, indoor greenery, and fresh farm produce directly from local growers. Visitors can also spend time digging through second-hand stalls for collectables, books, and vintage finds. If you are planning a weekend feast, the deli section at Yandina is excellent for sourcing local spices, olives, and artisan cheeses.

Whether you are starting your day with a stroll through the hinterland markets or ending it surrounded by the glow of the Lantern Festival, today offers a wonderful reflection of the Sunshine Coast’s unique community spirit.