Bannisters by the Sea
Various prices
There’s a lot of foodie fun to be found in Sydney, but if you’re craving a gourmet escape from the city – one that will let you really connect with what you’re eating and where it’s come from – we’ve got just the ticket.
This spring, Meet the Makers South Coast Festival will pop up in and around the charming market town of Milton in the magical Shoalhaven region – offering visitors the chance to eat, drink, connect and create with some of the region’s top chefs, providores and artisans. Although food is the key focus, there’s so much more in store – here’s everything you need to know about this celebration of creativity just south of Sydney.
Kicking off on Saturday, September 6 with a magical long lunch at Barn on the Ridge (a gorgeous, rustic venue with sweeping views of the rolling hills), the festival will come to life every weekend throughout September – with a super diverse program spanning wine-blending workshops to a natural beauty masterclass.
The first Saturday of the fest will start with a mushroom foraging walk through beautiful coastal bushland. Once you’ve foraged, head to the opening lunch which will bring together more than 10 local producers, with a stacked canape station, a decadent dessert bar, wine tastings and live musicians soundtracking the afternoon. From there, head to Bannisters by the Sea which is hosting a series of pool bar pop-ups throughout the festival (Bannisters is the official hotel partner, so this is where you’ll want to situate yourself for a weekend if you’re ready to go all-in).
Other highlights from the program include painting, drawing, flower arranging and weaving workshops, a beer-fuelled dinner at The Milton Hotel in partnership with on-site brewery Dangerous Ales, a winemaking masterclass and long lunch at the beautiful Cupitt’s Estate and a series of indulgent afternoon teas hosted in the historic Mount Airlie House.
Meet the Makers South Coast Festival will run every weekend from Saturday, September 6 until Sunday, September 28 2025. Tickets are on sale now – you can book yours here.
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