Cooly Rocks On Festival

Wed 7 June – Sun 11 June, 2023

A Nostalgic Journey Through the Golden Era of Rock ‘n’ Roll!

The Cooly Rocks On Festival is an annual event held in our beautiful coastal town of Coolangatta, located on the southern end of the Gold Coast in Australia. This festival is a celebration of all things retro, with a focus on the music, cars, and fashion of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. The festival has been running since 2011 and has quickly become one of the most popular events on the Gold Coast calendar.

A tribute to the golden era

Cooly Rocks On Festival pays homage to the vibrant and influential era of the 1950s and 1960s, capturing the essence of a time when rock ‘n’ roll reigned supreme. The festival showcases the iconic style, music, and cars that defined this golden age. Visitors are transported back in time as the streets of Coolangatta transform into a lively stage for retro entertainment, attracting participants and spectators from near and far.

Classic Cars and Hot Rods

One of the highlights of the Cooly Rocks On Festival is the display of classic cars and hot rods, which line the streets of Coolangatta. Car enthusiasts gather to admire these meticulously restored vehicles, showcasing the craftsmanship and beauty of the automobile industry from the past. From vintage Fords to Chevrolet Bel Airs, the lineup of cars offers a feast for the eyes. The festival also hosts car cruises, where owners showcase their vehicles in a parade through the town, providing an unforgettable spectacle for all.

Live Music and Dancing

Cooly Rocks On is known for its lively music scene, with live performances by renowned artists from the rock ‘n’ roll era. The festival features an impressive lineup of bands and musicians, playing hits from the 1950s and 1960s that get attendees dancing and singing along. From rockabilly to doo-wop, the music sets the tone for a celebration of the era’s sound and spirit. Dance floors are set up throughout the festival grounds, inviting people of all ages and skill levels to join in and learn the energetic dances of the time, such as the jitterbug or the twist.

Street Parades and Retro Fashion

The festival’s street parades are a highlight, as the streets come alive with colorful floats, vintage fashion, and energetic performers. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their retro best, with many donning vintage clothing and rock ‘n’ roll attire. The parade becomes a vibrant showcase of fashion, style, and nostalgia. 

Markets, Food, and Memorabilia

The Cooly Rocks On Festival offers more than just music and entertainment. Market stalls line the streets, offering an array of vintage memorabilia, collectibles, clothing, and accessories. Visitors can browse through an extensive range of vinyl records, retro homewares, vintage fashion, and rock ‘n’ roll-themed merchandise. Food stalls provide a delightful culinary experience, with a range of options from classic fish and chips to gourmet burgers and international cuisine. 

A fantastic celebration of all things retro, this festival brings together people from all over the country to enjoy the music, cars, fashion, and culture of the past. There’s a great atmosphere, with everyone coming together to have a good time. If you love all things retro, then the Cooly Rocks On Festival is definitely an event that you should put on your bucket list! 

If you’re thinking of visiting Coolangatta for an event like Cooly Rocks On, the Gold Coast Pro or Coolangatta Gold, Rainbow Commodore is the perfect place to stay! Our Rainbow Bay accommodation offers everything you need for your home away from home. Book direct and save!