What’s On? Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival: 29 June & 1 July 2018

Are you a foodie? Do you love a good glass of wine? Then make plans to travel to the Byron Bay area for the Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival, which takes place on Sunday 1 July. Only 30 minutes approx. south of Byron Bay, Ballina is an excellent day trip, with lots of things to do in Ballina from tons of outdoor activities, to this food and wine festival.

In fact, we love Ballina so much we put together a post about taking a Day Trip to Ballina. Check it out for more ideas about what to do while you’re in town for the festival.

The ninth annual Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival runs from 11 am to 5 pm on Sunday, 1 July at the Ballina Jockey Club. Tickets cost $25, and adults only (18 years old and above) are permitted in the festival. So use this as a great way to get away for an adult weekend, girls/guys time or friends getaway. Plus, if you’re a big foodie and/or wine enthusiast, then you might like to add on the other festival-related event, the Asahi After Dark Gala Dinner, held at the Ballina RSL Club on Friday, 29 June.

The Main Festival

The Ballina Food and Wine Festival offers ticket holders the chance to taste a variety of delicious food as well as excellent wine and beer. Local restaurants will serve up samples of their signature dishes, with the option to buy larger tasting plates. Wine, craft beer, ciders and spirits samples will be available for tasting, again with the chance to buy a glass or bottle to sip on a larger quantity.

Throughout the food and wine show, winemakers and brewers will be providing information about their products and sharing their expertise. Sample the products and chat with the makers as you wander through the venue. Your foodie side will be satisfied as you watch the cooking demonstrations that will use fresh produce. Plus, don’t miss out on the samples!

Check out who you can see during the festival by visiting the programme page.

In addition to food and wine, there will be live entertainment at the Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival. Regional artists Blake Tailor and headliner Diesel will be performing as well as Sydney’s own Jed Zarb, who has been a very popular act the last two years, will perform two sets.

If you are worried about transportation to and from the event, no need to as the festival has buses available for $5 a ticket (includes return trip). The buses will run to and from Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay, Bangalow, Lismore, Alstonville, Lennox Head and Ballina. Check out the bus schedule page for more information.

Asahi After Dark Gala Dinner

On Friday evening, you can attend a four-course gourmet dinner designed by Ballina RSL executive chef Blake Seymour for $95 per person. He will plan and prepare the dinner utilising local, fresh produce, so take the opportunity to thoroughly treat your inner foodie. You’ll be served a complimentary beer or champagne upon available. Additional wines and craft beers, specially selected to complement each course from Asahi Premium Beverages and De Bortoli Wines, will be available for purchase.

Attendees also will be treated to a performance by Elizabeth Lord and Leigh James. Swing On In dancers will perform some moves during the gala dinner as well.

Stay in the Byron Bay area at Broken Head

Make plans to stay at Broken Head Holiday Park during the weekend of the Ballina Fine Wine and Food Festival. You’ll be able to relax in the quiet surroundings of Broken Head, and then go to either or both of the festival’s events easily. In addition, you could sneak in a few Byron Bay winter activities if you want as well. Take a look at our excellent variety of accommodation from unpowered campsites, to beach houses. We’re sure you’ll find the right one for you!