As the cancellation of music festivals like Splendour in the Grass leaves music enthusiasts seeking new avenues for regional adventures, a trend toward food festivals is gaining momentum across Australia. Amidst the backdrop of small-town charm and agricultural heritage, autumn food festivals are becoming increasingly popular, drawing larger crowds each year.
One such festival, The Great Trentham Spudfest, located north-west of Melbourne, has seen a surge in demand for its quirky potato-themed attractions, including food stalls, peeling competitions, and historic spud-hut tours. After experiencing unprecedented interest last year, organizers have expanded the event to two days and introduced a new farm-gate trail across the Hepburn and Moorabool shires.
In Victoria, other festivals like the Wandi Nut Festival in Wandiligong and the Grampians Grape Escape at Halls Gap are also expecting higher visitor numbers this year. The economic impact of these festivals on regional towns is substantial, with events like the Grampians Grape Escape contributing $3 million to the Shire of the Northern Grampians.
Inspired by the success of established festivals, new events are emerging, such as Caper in Byron Bay, the Fungi Feastival on the NSW South Coast, and the Mount Alexander Tastes Showcase in Castlemaine. The Mount Alexander Tastes Showcase, set to debut on April 25, offers a departure from traditional market stall setups, featuring interactive tours, workshops, and cooking classes to highlight the region’s culinary offerings.
Among the standout attractions of these festivals is the Holy Goat Long Lunch, celebrating local cheesemakers Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs. As the duo prepares to retire, attendees can savor their award-winning cheese during a four-course lunch led by chef Alex Petter.
At The Great Trentham Spudfest, now in its 16th year, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s potato farming heritage through themed food stalls, farm tours, and sporting competitions. Festival-goers are encouraged to indulge in unique potato-based treats like ‘spudnuts’ and ‘pomme tots,’ available only during the event.
Meanwhile, the Wandi Nut Festival returns to its roots with a focus on nut growers and a touch of quirkiness, featuring roasted chestnuts, cooking demonstrations, and entertainment by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Similarly, the Grampians Grape Escape offers a blend of wine tasting, live music, and culinary experiences, attracting thousands of visitors to Halls Gap annually.
In the scenic Dandenong Ranges, the Kalorama Chestnut Festival has transformed from a roadside stall into a community-led celebration, with proceeds benefiting the local preschool and primary school. This charming event features market stalls, live music, and workshops, showcasing the region’s autumnal delights.
As music festivals take a backseat, food festivals emerge as the go-to destination for travelers seeking unique culinary experiences and a taste of regional hospitality. With an array of festivals spanning across Australia, there’s something to satisfy every palate and preference on the regional road trip itinerary.
