- Taste Great Southern to return with new dates and experiences in March 2026
- Expected to attract thousands of visitors to the Great Southern region and boost the local economy
- Festival will be held during Albany's Bicentenary celebrations
- Part of the Cook Government's economic diversification strategy to generate valuable tourism dollars for local business
Taste Great Southern will return in March 2026 with a refreshed date and refined culinary and cultural program.
Taking place from 5-8 March 2026 to extend the Great Southern's tourism season, the event will showcase the region's top talent, stand-out venues, premium produce, rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.
The Western Australia Government is supporting Taste Great Southern through a funding agreement until 2027, delivered through Tourism WA's Regional Events Program.
The region's flagship food, wine and culture festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the Great Southern region, generating millions of dollars for the local economy.
In 2026, the event will introduce new experiences such as the Taste Market - which brings together local wine producers, chef pop-ups, sommelier-hosted masterclasses and more - and bring back favourites from 2025 such as the Denmark Wine Hop and Tides of Taste at Maitraya Private Retreat.
Based primarily in Albany and Denmark, Taste Great Southern's full line-up will be released later this year, with events also set to take place across Frankland River, Katanning, Mount Barker, Porongurup and beyond.
The festival adds to Albany's Bicentenary celebrations taking place in March 2026 as the city is set to shine with celebration, tourism, reconciliation and community spirit.
This event forms part of the Cook Government's events strategy to diversify our economy by driving higher out-of-state visitor attendance and creating a calendar of events all year round.
Expressions of interest are now open for producers, chefs, venues and local businesses wanting to be part of Taste Great Southern.
Find out more at tastegreatsouthern.com.au
As stated by Tourism and Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:
"For over 20 years, Taste Great Southern has created vibrancy and excitement in the region, injected millions into its economy and supported local businesses by highlighting the many world-class wine and food offerings found throughout the Great Southern.
"With a refined program and a new date set to take place during Albany's Bicentenary, next year's festival will not be one to miss, making it the perfect reason for visitors to plan a road trip and explore the Great Southern region.
"The Cook Government is proud to support such an iconic event, which is deeply valued by the community and plays a key role in strengthening and diversifying the region's economy."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Taste Great Southern will showcase the region's culinary talent and celebrated produce along with bringing in thousands of visitors.
"With events taking place throughout the Great Southern, a range of communities are set to see a rise in tourism, which will boost local economies.
"This is an example of how the Regional Events Program is supporting exciting events throughout regional WA, which is a win for both local businesses and visitors to the region."
