Returning 14 March 2026, the festival will feature incredible food, wine, cooking demonstrations, live music, and those iconic Shoal Bay sunset views.
The Shoal Bay Food and Wine Festival is an open-air celebration of food, wine and coastal vibes returning to showcase the best of Port Stephens. The event brings together local hospitality, producers and performers in one of New South Wales's most spectacular coastal locations.
Mayor Leah Anderson said having Darren Robertson as the festival's guest chef adds to the event's appeal and highlights Port Stephens as a destination for quality food and coastal experiences.
"The Shoal Bay Food and Wine Festival is all about enjoying the things we love about our region - good food, wine, music and the Shoal Bay sunset," Mayor Anderson said.
"It's great to have Darren Robertson join us alongside our local businesses to showcase the quality of our regional food culture and perform a cooking demonstration on the main stage," Mayor Anderson added.
Festivalgoers can enjoy premium offerings from 22 local restaurants, wineries, brewers, and distillers. There will also be live entertainment, cooking demonstrations and more across two stages.
The Shoal Bay Country Club Main Stage, hosted by Jessica Farchione, will feature Brendan Watson and the Joy Band, with DJ Dola performing throughout the afternoon and evening.
This year, the festival welcomes Airbnb as the Event Community Partner. Susan Wheeldon, Country Manager of Airbnb Australia and New Zealand, said they are proud to help showcase the region.
"Airbnb is proud to partner with the Shoal Bay Food & Wine Festival and play a role in bringing such an enjoyable experience to all who attend from near and far," Susan Wheeldon said.
"It's also an opportunity for visitors to take in all the other great experiences this region has to offer, providing local businesses with an important economic boost during the quieter months," Susan Wheeldon added.
Mayor Anderson said the festival is more than an opportunity to boost tourism.
"Events like this strengthen our sense of community. They give us a chance to celebrate our local identity and take pride in the incredible backyard we share, while enjoying a day out with friends and family," Mayor Anderson said.
"They also encourage visitors to stay longer outside of peak season and explore more of the Port Stephens region," Mayor Anderson added.
With a commitment to accessibility, the event includes a dedicated quiet area for participants to rest. The free shuttle buses, which include low-floor wheelchair accessibility, will run from Salamander Bay and Nelson Bay. The Shoal Bay Country Club courtesy bus will also be available.
Guest chef Darren Robertson is a renowned culinary expert, co-owner and chef of the Three Blue Ducks group, and former Head Chef at the prestigious Tetsuya in Sydney.
The Shoal Bay Food & Wine Festival is supported by Airbnb, Shoal Bay Country Club, Destination NSW, the Shoaly Collective, Destination Port Stephens and Port Stephens Council.
