The 10 Best Food and Wine Festivals in Australia and New Zealand in 2027
PULSEKNOWLEDGE LIBRARY
The 10 best food and wine festivals in australia and new zealand are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival ranks first for its unmatched breadth and quality, featuring hundreds of events across Victoria each March. Most events cost between AUD $50 and $150, with premium dinners and the World's Longest Lunch reaching AUD $200–$300. The festival showcases Melbourne's top restaurants alongside Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula producers. It is a flagship event in a city consistently ranked among the world's best for food.
This festival is for serious food travelers who want a comprehensive, multi-week culinary immersion. It trades the intimacy of smaller regional events for sheer scale and variety, requiring advance booking for signature experiences. Compared to Tasting Australia below, it offers more events and star power but at a higher average cost. Travelers wanting a deep dive into Australia's premier food scene will find it here.
2. Tasting Australia, Adelaide

Tasting Australia ranks second and takes the best-value title, with many Town Square events in Adelaide free and ticketed dinners starting around AUD $40. The festival, held in late April or early May 2027, centers on Victoria Square, with signature long lunches climbing past AUD $200. Its location provides easy access to the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, and McLaren Vale wine regions. This combination of low entry cost and premier wine country access is unmatched.
This festival is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want top-tier food and wine experiences. It trades the massive scale of Melbourne's event for a more focused, accessible program centered in one square. Compared to the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival above, it offers less variety but far better value and proximity to multiple wine regions. It is the smart choice for those wanting to stretch their dollar.
3. Margaret River Gourmet Escape

Margaret River Gourmet Escape ranks third for pairing a world-class wine region with stunning coastal scenery in Western Australia. Held in November or December 2027, events range from AUD $100 to $300, including beach feasts and winery long lunches. The region is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, which anchor the festival's tastings. Celebrity chef appearances add to its prestige and draw.
This festival is for travelers who want a luxury wine-country getaway with a beachside atmosphere. It trades the urban convenience of Adelaide or Melbourne for a remote, scenic setting that requires more travel. Compared to Tasting Australia above, it offers a more premium and curated experience at a significantly higher price point. It is best for those seeking an indulgent, high-end food and wine escape.
4. Noosa Eat & Drink Festival

Noosa Eat & Drink Festival ranks fourth for its relaxed beachside setting on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, held each May. Events are priced between AUD $40 and $150, featuring chef demonstrations, long lunches, and tastings by the beach. The subtropical climate and abundant local seafood are major draws for attendees. It is a long-running event that blends holiday vibes with serious culinary programming.
This festival is for travelers who want to combine a food festival with a beach holiday in a laid-back atmosphere. It trades the wine-region focus of higher-ranked festivals for a broader, seafood-centric culinary experience. Compared to Margaret River Gourmet Escape above, it is more affordable and casual, but with less emphasis on premium wine. It is a great choice for families and those seeking sun, sand, and good food.
5. Sydney / Good Food Month

Good Food Month in Sydney ranks fifth for its major-city energy, with the free-to-enter Night Noodle Markets in Hyde Park being a highlight. Street food dishes at the markets cost about AUD $12–$20, while ticketed dinners and pop-up events run from $80 to $200. The festival, held in October or November 2027, celebrates Sydney's diverse dining scene. It offers a mix of casual street food and high-end chef collaborations.
This festival is for urban foodies who enjoy a mix of affordable street eats and fine dining experiences. It trades the wine-country immersion of regional festivals for the convenience and diversity of a big city. Compared to Noosa Eat & Drink Festival above, it offers more variety and international buzz but lacks a beachside or vineyard setting. It is perfect for travelers already planning to visit Sydney.
6. Barossa Vintage Festival

The Barossa Vintage Festival ranks sixth for its deep heritage as one of Australia's oldest wine festivals, celebrating the grape harvest in the Barossa Valley. Held biennially in odd years around April 2027, events range from AUD $40 to $200, including winery lunches, tastings, and a grand parade. The region is world-famous for its Shiraz, which is the festival's centerpiece. It offers an authentic, community-driven celebration of wine and food.
This festival is for wine lovers specifically focused on exploring Barossa Shiraz in a traditional setting. It trades the modern, curated feel of newer festivals for a more historic and local experience. Compared to Sydney's Good Food Month above, it offers a more immersive wine-region experience but with fewer international chef names. It is best for those wanting to connect with Australia's winemaking heritage.
7. Hawke's Bay / F.A.W.C! New Zealand

F.A.W.C! (Food and Wine Classic) in Hawke's Bay ranks seventh for its intimate, well-curated events held across two seasons each year. Events run about NZD $50 to $200, featuring vineyard lunches, foraging walks, and chef dinners. Hawke's Bay is New Zealand's premier region for Syrah and Bordeaux-style red wines. The festival's smaller scale allows for personal interaction with winemakers and chefs.
This festival is for travelers exploring New Zealand's wine country who prefer a more personal, less crowded experience. It trades the large-scale spectacle of Australian city festivals for a boutique, regional focus. Compared to the Barossa Vintage Festival above, it offers a similar wine-region immersion but with a more modern and varied event program. It is ideal for those seeking quality over quantity.
8. Marlborough Wine & Food Festival

The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival ranks eighth as New Zealand's longest-running wine festival, held each February in the Sauvignon Blanc capital. A day ticket costs about NZD $65–$95, which includes tastings from dozens of Marlborough wineries, food stalls, and live music. The festival is the definitive experience for the world-famous New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. It is a single-day event with a clear, focused purpose.
This festival is for white-wine lovers, particularly fans of Sauvignon Blanc, who want a straightforward tasting experience. It trades the multi-day, multi-event format of other festivals for a concentrated one-day celebration. Compared to Hawke's Bay F.A.W.C! above, it offers less variety in cuisine but a more direct and comprehensive wine tasting lineup. It is a must for anyone visiting the South Island's wine country.
9. Orange F.O.O.D Week

Orange F.O.O.D Week ranks ninth for its authentic, producer-led events in the cool-climate region of New South Wales. Held in April 2027, events range from free producer visits to long lunches and tastings priced between AUD $50 and $150. The region is known for its cool-climate wines, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and high-quality local produce. It is one of Australia's longest-running regional food festivals.
This festival is for travelers who want a relaxed, rural food trip within easy reach of Sydney. It trades the coastal or urban settings of higher-ranked festivals for a charming country town atmosphere. Compared to the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival above, it offers a more diverse program of events spread over a week. It is best for those seeking a genuine, down-to-earth regional experience.
10. Queenstown / Central Otago Food & Wine

Food-and-wine events in Queenstown and Central Otago rank tenth for offering Pinot Noir against the spectacular backdrop of the Southern Alps. Events run about NZD $60 to $250, with vineyard lunches and tastings held throughout 2027. Central Otago is recognized as one of the world's premier Pinot Noir regions. The combination of world-class wine and adventure tourism is a unique draw.
This festival is for travelers combining wine tasting with outdoor adventure in New Zealand's South Island. It trades a single, unified festival program for a series of events spread across a stunning region. Compared to Orange F.O.O.D Week above, it offers more dramatic scenery and a more famous wine style, but at a higher cost. It is perfect for those who want to pair wine with hiking, biking, or skiing.
How we ranked these
Rankings were determined by weighting culinary depth (breadth of chef-led events and regional produce), wine-region access (proximity and quality of nearby vineyards), scale (number of events and attendance), and value (price range relative to experience). Each festival was scored across these criteria using official event data, ticketing information, and regional tourism resources, with higher scores assigned to festivals offering diverse programming and strong wine-country integration.
Deliberately ignored were subjective factors like personal taste preferences, celebrity chef appearances, and media hype, as these are not objectively measurable and vary by individual. Also excluded were festivals with limited verifiable 2027 date confirmations or those outside the specified geographic scope. The focus remained on reproducible, factual metrics—pricing, event counts, and regional reputation—to ensure a transparent and useful ranking for travelers.
Related questions
What are the best wine festivals in Europe in 2027?
Europe's top wine festivals in 2027 include Bordeaux's Wine Festival, La Rioja's Batalla del Vino, and Tuscany's Chianti Classico events. These festivals emphasize regional heritage, with tastings, vineyard tours, and local food pairings. Prices vary, but many offer free entry to town squares and ticketed premium experiences. For a comprehensive list, see our dedicated guide.
What are the best music festivals in Asia and Australia in 2027?
Leading music festivals in Asia and Australia for 2027 include Fuji Rock in Japan, Laneway in Singapore, and Splendour in the Grass in Australia. These events feature international and local acts, with camping options and diverse food vendors. Ticket prices range from AUD $150 to $400, depending on the festival and tier.
What are the best milestone birthday party venues in New York City in 2027?
Top NYC venues for milestone birthdays include The Foundry in Long Island City, 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, and The McKittrick Hotel. These spaces offer unique atmospheres, from industrial chic to rooftop views, with catering packages starting around $100 per person. Book 6-12 months in advance for prime dates.
What are the best New Year's Eve celebrations around the world in 2027?
Best NYE 2027 celebrations include Sydney's Harbour fireworks, Edinburgh's Hogmanay, and New York's Times Square. Sydney offers a family-friendly early show, while Edinburgh features a torchlight procession. Expect large crowds and book accommodations early, as prices surge. Many events are free, but premium viewing areas cost extra.
What are the best food and drink festivals in the United Kingdom in 2027?
Top UK food festivals include the BBC Good Food Show in London, Ludlow Food Festival, and Abergavenny Food Festival. These events showcase local produce, chef demos, and artisan stalls. Prices range from free entry to £50 for premium tickets. They are excellent for discovering regional British cuisine and drinks.
What are the best food festivals in Asia in 2027?
Asia's best food festivals include the Bangkok Street Food Festival, Singapore's World Gourmet Summit, and Tokyo's Ramen Festa. These events highlight street food, fine dining, and regional specialties. Prices vary widely, from affordable street eats to high-end gala dinners. They offer a deep dive into Asia's culinary diversity.
FAQ
Are these festivals only for wine lovers, or do they cater to foodies too?
Every festival on this list balances food and wine, with dedicated chef demonstrations, tasting trails, and regional produce showcases. You’ll find plenty for non-drinkers, including craft beer, cider, and non-alcoholic pairings.
How far in advance should I book tickets or accommodation?
For major events like Melbourne Food and Wine Festival or WOMADelaide, book tickets and lodging 3–4 months ahead, especially for premium dinners. Smaller regional festivals may allow last-week bookings, but accommodation near wine regions fills quickly.
Is it possible to attend multiple festivals in one trip?
Yes, particularly in South Australia and Victoria, where festivals like Tasting Australia and Melbourne Food and Wine are within a 1–2 hour flight or a day’s drive. Plan for at least 4–5 days per festival to fully experience the region.
What’s the typical price range for a full-day experience?
Expect to spend between AUD $50 and $150 for a day of tastings and workshops, with premium long lunches or masterclasses reaching up to AUD $300. Free community events are common at Tasting Australia and regional festivals.
Are children welcome at these festivals?
Most festivals have family-friendly areas and activities, especially daytime events in parks or town squares. Evening long lunches and wine tastings are typically adults-only, so check individual event policies.
Do I need to rent a car to visit the wine regions around these festivals?
A car is helpful for regions like the Barossa, McLaren Vale, or Marlborough, but many festivals offer shuttle services or guided tours from city centers. Rideshare and taxis are available in most areas, though booking ahead is wise.
What is the best time of year to visit Australia for food and wine festivals?
Autumn (March-May) is ideal, with Melbourne Food and Wine, Tasting Australia, and Barossa Vintage all occurring. Spring (November) offers Margaret River Gourmet Escape. Summer (December-February) features Marlborough in NZ. Each season provides unique produce and weather.
Which festival is best for a budget traveler?
Tasting Australia in Adelaide offers the most value, with many free events in Town Square and ticketed dinners from AUD $40. Sydney's Good Food Month also has affordable Night Noodle Market dishes ($12-$20) and free entry to the markets.
Which festival is best for wine enthusiasts?
For serious wine lovers, the Barossa Vintage Festival (Shiraz) and Margaret River Gourmet Escape (Cabernet/Chardonnay) are top choices. In New Zealand, Marlborough (Sauvignon Blanc) and Central Otago (Pinot Noir) offer world-class tastings in stunning settings.
Sources
- https://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/
- https://tastingaustralia.com.au/
- https://www.margaretrivergourmetescape.com.au/
- https://www.visitsunshinecoast.com/
- https://www.goodfoodmonth.com/
- https://www.barossa.com/events/barossa-vintage-festival/
- https://www.hawkesbaynz.com/
- https://marlboroughwinefestival.com/
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