Top 11 Australian Food Festivals Slideshow
11. The Taste Festival
End the year in December and early January (from Dec. 28, 20130 to Jan. 3, 2014) in Tasmania at The Taste Festival. Sample delectable food, wine, and beer while dancing on Hobart's waterfront watching yachts come to shore.
10. Delectable Brisbane
From July 16 to 29, head to Brisbane to take part in the Queensland's newest food and wine festival. Local growers, chefs, and musical talent are featured. Participate in master classes, tastings, and workshops as well. You can also see amazing light and projection displays that will make the city of Brisbane come alive.
9. Tasting at the Top
Take part in the three-day (June 22 to 24) gourmet celebration called Tastings at the Top in Tasmania. There are fresh produce markets, dinner demonstrations, and even spa treatments for those that want to relax in between tastings. Located at the top of the stunning Cradle Mountain, this is an event not to be missed.
8. High Country Harvest
Also in May (May 17 to 26), the High Country Harvest takes place in Victoria's High Country region. This festival is spread over 10 days with more than 40 food-centered events. Many of the region's best restaurants and cafés will put together custom-made menus that feature the very best local produce, beer, and wine.
7. Grampians Grape Escape
Although this year's event has already passed (May 4 and 5), be sure to travel to Western Victoria for next year's food and wine festival. Enjoy locally produced wine and delectable food. With a relaxed atmosphere, you can wander through the grounds to sample more than 100 of Victoria's best local producers of fine food and wine.
5. Opera in the Vineyards
Good music and fine wine combine for the Opera in the Vineyards in the Hunter Valley. This event takes place Saturday, Oct. 19 and lets you indulge in opera, food, and wine — all at the same time!
4. Barossa Gourmet Weekend
You can enjoy a weekend of food and wine at the Barossa Gourmet Weekend this Aug. 17 and 18. More than 20 wineries are featured during the weekend, offering guests delicious food, famous wines, and live entertainment. Families are well catered for with plenty of children-friendly activities and dining options.
3. Margaret River Gourmet Escape
From Nov. 22 to 24, this three-day food and wine festival attracts world-class chefs, highly regarded food critics, and a multitude of celebrities. You can indulge in wine tastings and cooking classes before taking in some live music against a backdrop of stunning beaches.
2. Crave Sydney International Food Festival
Be sure to stop in Sydney for the Crave Sydney International Food Festival in October. The monthlong celebration features food events from across Sydney and nearby regions. Live entertainment is also a feature. The Noodle Markets that take place at night are hugely popular and feature fantastic Asian cuisine.