The gates have opened for the 118th annual Gold Coast Show.

This year's show features the largest side-show alley in the show's history.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate anticipates record attendance figures across the long weekend.

"I believe we will reach 120,000 in three days, so that's a huge celebration," Tate said.

The city enjoyed a public holiday today as crowds flocked to the parklands.

Showgoers were observed exploring all the traditional show fare, ranging from traditional Dagwood dogs to potato slinkies.

Some thrill-seekers headed straight for the rides, while others didn't share the enthusiasm.

"I was thinking, 'Am I going to throw up? I was scared for my life if I'm being honest'," one queasy show-goer told 9News.

Beyond the rides and food, the show also featured unique att

See Full Page