Harvest Festival returns over June long weekend

The Harvest Festival returns to the Coast over the June long weekend

Foodies, families and fun-seekers will flock to the Central Coast hinterland over the June long weekend for the return of one of the region’s most popular annual events, Harvest Festival.

Harvest Festival 2022 will offer a wide range of unique events and experiences across 30 event hubs on June 11 and 12.

Activities on offer in Yarramalong, Dooralong, Jilliby, Wyong Creek, Kulnura, Mangrove Mountain, Peats Ridge and Somersby-Calga include bushtucker walkabout tours, farm and orchard tours and a range of more unusual experiences.

At The Giving Farm at Jilliby, you can pick your own flowers and veggies and pet the animals.

The Tuggerah Lakes Field archers are offering the opportunity to try your hand at archery.

You can meet the alpacas at Iris Lodge Alpacas at Jilliby, participate in a platypus day at Yarramalong, or go on a waterways catchment crawl.

Various accommodation packages are available.

Meet the alpacas at Iris Lodge Alpacas at Jilliby

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the festival was an opportunity to recognise our region’s local producers.

“This is a rare chance to take a glimpse behind the farm gate as you explore rural farming communities and their picturesque heritage villages right here on the Coast,” Smith said.

“Follow the Harvest Festival event trail to visit local farms, sample local produce, soak up live music and entertainment or join in a range of family-friendly activities designed to show off the unique charm of our region’s hinterland.

“From paddock to plate dining experiences and wine tastings to produce picking, hands-on workshops and much more, the two-day program offers something for every taste and interest.”

Smith said a number of event hubs are offering the opportunity to pre-book experiences in advance.

Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said Harvest Festival built local pride, celebrated sustainability and boosted the local economy.

“Previous events have attracted over 48,000 visitors, providing the Central Coast economy with an $8M boost, and this year’s event is anticipated to deliver similar returns,” he said.

“This much-loved event is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, and contributes to the continued growth and development of the Central Coast.”

Most events require pre-booking.

To see the full calendar of events and pre-book your Harvest Festival experience, go to the Harvest Festival webpage.

The Full Circle Farm Tour at Jilliby

Source:
Media release, Apr 29
Central Coast Council