Mark your calendars and get ready to eat, drink and be merry on a culinary odyssey across Australia’s food and wine festivals. Gourmet food and wine festivals are back, with a series of delectable events that will tantalise taste buds and showcase the regions’ fresh local produce and diverse flavours. Here’s a sneak peek into some of the most anticipated food and wine festivals to whet your appetite.
Newcastle Food Month
Welcome to Newcastle Food Month, the ultimate celebration of all things food. Image from Newcastle Food Month.
April
Prepare your palate for a delicious extravaganza as Newcastle gears up for the return of its highly-anticipated food festival Newcastle Food Month. This month-long celebration of all things food features innovative food pop-ups, chef collaborations and themed culinary experiences. Don’t miss the excellent value Plate Date deals give you the chance to enjoy a main meal and beverage from your dream foodie wish list.
Where to stay
Stay in comfortable serviced apartments at the Terminus Apartment Hotel, a four-minute walk from the beach, and explore everything Newcastle has to offer.
A Taste of Italy Griffith
Calling all pizza and pasta lovers, the taste of Italy Griffith is for you.
August
Embark on a gastronomic journey to Italy without leaving Australian shores at A Taste of Italy in Griffith. Set against the picturesque Murrumbidgee River in the heart of the NSW Riverina, this event celebrates the region’s authentic Italian culture and heritage. Classic traditions of salami-making, preserving olives and ‘sauce days’ are alive and well in this cosmopolitan town, and A Taste of Italy brings it all together for one glorious, delicious Italiano week in August.
Where to stay
Enjoy a relaxing stay in quiet, peaceful surroundings at Econo Lodge Griffith Motor Inn, ideally located in the centre of town.
Swan Hill Region Food and Wine Festival
Nothing beats a food and wine festival.
March
Over three festive days in March, the Swan Hill region in Victoria comes alive with the celebration of local flavours. The Swan Hill Food and Wine Festival showcases the best produce and award-winning wines from the region. Hop aboard the Twilight Cruise down the Murray River, and sample tempting delicacies against the backdrop of a Mallee sunset, or taste your way around the region at the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, with live entertainment and free face painting for the kids.
Where to stay
You’ll find plenty of accommodation options in Swan Hill and across the border, from a riverside golf resort in Barham to modern hotels in the heart of Swan Hill.
The Curated Plate
So many different cuisines to try at the Curated Plate. Image by the Curated Plate.
July – August
For food lovers seeking an immersive, curated experience, The Curated Plate food festival on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast dishes up the goods. Against a backdrop of pristine beaches and lush hinterland, this 10-day homegrown festival of food honours the region’s local produce, producers and top chefs. From chef’s table dinners to interactive workshops and meet the maker events, The Curated Plate is a culinary adventure to engage all your senses.
Where to stay
After feasting at The Curated Plate, relax in quality accommodation in Mooloolaba, including modern luxury apartments by the beach.
Unwind Perth
Stop by the City Feast in WA for some delicious food. Photo by Tye Doring on Unsplash
May
Perth will be abuzz in May with Unwind Perth, one of the top food and wine events in Perth. Enjoy a wine, spirit or beer tasting while enjoying the food and entertainment offerings. Soak up the atmosphere with cozy seating areas and fire pits, the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of your new favourite drink!
Where to stay
You’ll find plenty of hotels in Perth to extend your stay and make the most of the vibrant food and wine scene at your fingertips.