Newcastle Food Month 2026: A Feast for the Senses
The Hunter Valley region is set to sizzle with culinary excitement over the coming months, as a vibrant array of gourmet festivals takes center stage. From coastal celebrations to agricultural showcases, residents and visitors alike can indulge in a packed calendar of flavour-driven events that highlight the area's rich food culture.
Australia's Largest Food Festival Returns
April 2026 marks the highly anticipated return of Newcastle Food Month, proudly holding the title of Australia's most expansive food festival. Organisers Louise and Gus Maher describe this year's program as a beautifully curated food map of the city, woven together by visionary chefs, dedicated owners, and deeply invested commercial partners.
Strategic collaborations with the City of Newcastle and the NSW government have given birth to innovative precinct-based concepts spanning more than 70 venues. In the Midtown area, attendees can enjoy $30 "Late Night Plate Dates" complete with courtesy bus transfers, while Newcastle East will feature a meticulously curated food tour and trail map.
The Throsby precinct will showcase seafood-themed Plate Dates across Carrington, Islington, Maryville, Tighes Hill, and Wickham. For the first time in the festival's history, all nine commercial partners are hosting their own unique experiences.
Signature Events and Collaborations
First Creek Wines is teaming up with Sukimama for a pop-up cellar door at Ms Mary, while Crystalbrook Kingsley will host a Foodie Sleepover featuring festival ambassador Reece Hignell. Two new signature events headline the 2026 calendar: the SoundBites Food & Wine Festival at Newcastle Racecourse on Friday, March 28, starring celebrity chef Miguel Maestre, and the Customs House x TINTA Belmont Autumnal Garden Party on April 11 and 18.
For those with a taste for Hunter Valley wine country, A Little Bit of Broke on Saturday, March 14 offers an opportunity to roam between 15 participating venues while enjoying wine tastings, food, and live music. On the same day, Port Stephens hosts The Shoal Bay Food and Wine Festival from 3pm to 9pm, celebrating incredible food, wine, and live entertainment in one of NSW's most stunning coastal settings.
Regional Celebrations and Heritage Events
In Maitland, the LIVE at The Levee Street Party on Saturday, March 21 brings together the best live music from across the region, delivered in partnership with local hospitality businesses. Attendees can enjoy great food, lively pop-up bars including the Dusty Miner, and plenty of good vibes along the river.
The iconic Hunter Valley Steamfest, scheduled for April 18-19 at the Station Precinct in Maitland Station, offers more than just a celebration of the valley's steam-powered past. Over the weekend, visitors can plate up at local gourmet food trucks while immersing themselves in live music, interactive displays, heritage demonstrations, markets, and specialty stalls.
The first weekend of May brings Tocal Field Day, held May 1-3 at Tocal Agriculture College. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to pair with great local food, wine, and produce, continuing the region's commitment to culinary excellence.
With such a diverse and exciting lineup, Newcastle Food Month 2026 promises to be an unforgettable culinary journey through the Hunter Valley, showcasing the best of local talent, produce, and hospitality.
