It attracted some 600 competitors in the first year and whilst the Festival ceased in 2000, the Eisteddfod has continued to grow – it is now the largest competition of its kind in the country staged in August and September each year.
Entries are received from the south-east Queensland region and indeed from all States of Australia. Apart from individual entrants, around 141 Primary and Secondary Schools and more than 66 Dance Studios participate in sections which include Solo & Group Dance, Piano, Strings, Brass & Wind, Instrumental Groups, Bands, Orchestras, Vocal, Choral and Young People with Disabilities. In 2019, over 66,000 competitors took to the stage in 541 sections over 7 weeks.
Venues are HOTA – Home of the Arts and Robina Community Centre.
The City of Gold Coast is major sponsor and without this outstanding support, it would not be possible to stage this major cultural activity. Associate sponsor Gold Coast Airport.
