Great food festivals to explore this winter

Tassie Scallop Fiesta, TAS - Sunday August 2

If your idea of a great day out involves live music, cooking demonstrations, friendly ‘scallop shucking’ competitions and, above all else, more succulent seafood than your tummy can handle, then the annual Tassie Scallop Fiesta is a must visit. Held in the beautiful seaside town of Bridport, the festival has a wonderful community vibe and is a great day out for seafood lovers of all ages. Few places celebrate the humble scallop with such reverence and here you’ll find them in pies, on kebabs, in curries, or simply on their own with crispy hot chips. Just be sure to have them the Tassie way – with the roe on! 

Photo by Laurie Bingley Photography.

After Dark Truffle Fest, ACT - July 3

Few delicacies are as intriguing, beguiling or as expensive as the truffle, and few nights combine the truffle’s unique allure with delicious seasonal produce and a celebratory atmosphere as After Dark Truffle Fest in Pialligo, ACT. For one night only (Friday, July 3 in 2026), Beltana Farm in Canberra hosts a festival to kick off the annual truffle harvest season. Held under crisp winter skies, the four hour celebration kicks off with bbq snack before guests share a main and individual desserts, with delicacies including Beltana’s renowned truffle chocolate with chocolate soil.

Noosa Food & Wine Festival - June 11-14

Most of us think of Noosa as a summer destination but the seaside town has just as much allure in winter, not least for events like the annual food and wine festival. Running over four days, it features a jam-packed program sure to tantalise even the fussiest of tastebuds, with pop-up restaurants, long lunches, boat parties and special guest chefs all on the schedule. Booking ahead is essential. 

Burning of the Barrel, NSW - June 27

Regulars already know what makes this sell-out event so special but for newbies, here’s a quick hint: the Burning of the Barrel at Glandore Estate Wines has been voted as one of the top 50 wine experiences in the world. Full of mouth-watering food, live music, fireworks and, of course, plenty of Glandore’s signature varietals, the evening crescendos with a roaring bonfire that sets a ceremonial wine barrel alight to symbolise the end of the harvest. Festivities kick off at lunch and burn long into the night, with multiple ticket options available. 

Cabin Fever Festival, WA - July 17-26

If you've ever thought about a fly-drive holiday to Australia’s westernmost state, consider heading over to coincide with the Cabin Fever Festival. During the second half of July this festival turns Western Australia’s south-western corner into “a playground of food and music”. Comprising more than 40 events in the region between Busselton and Margaret River, the Cabin Fever Festival has something for everyone, from beer and wine to live music and even a cheese toastie competition. 

Fleurieu Food Festival, SA – August 1-31

If you’re a serious foodie, this is the winter food festival for you. The Fleurieu Peninsula south of Adelaide is one of Australia’s premier food bowls and the Fleurieu Food Festival is a month-long celebration of the produce and people from this region. Expect long lunches where you savour expertly matched food and wine, workshops where you can learn to create your own fresh-food masterpieces, and dining events guided by master chefs.