Food, wine and fun for the long weekend

THE Heathcote Harvest Festival will return to Barrack Reserve on 11 March to celebrate the start of autumn and the beginning of grape harvesting by local growers.

Now in its third year, the festival is expected to attract up to 1500 locals and visitors to the event.

Local, Maree Hingston, said she was looking forward to the event.

“My husband and I attended both previous harvest festivals and thoroughly enjoyed them,” she said.

“We are really looking forward to going again. I think it is a wonderful event, showcasing all Heathcote and the surrounding area has to offer.

“I am sure it will again bring lots of tourists into the town for the long weekend.

“With free entertainment and activities for children it makes a great family outing and there’s plenty for the adults, too.”

The festival will begin at 4pm with a twilight market featuring a variety of local and regional stalls.

“I think we have the best possible line up of food and drink vendors,” said India Munari from Munari Wines.

“Local producers will be showcasing their wine, spirits, craft beer and gin.

“Visitors will be able to purchase a re-usable poly-carbonate glass for their drink purchases. There will be no BYO glass.”

Attendees are invited to bring a picnic blanket or chair and relax as they listen to music from local blues artist, Miss May, the John Flanagan Duo and Melbourne band PLAYLUNCH.

Free entertainment for children will include face painting and lawn games.

For more information head to the Heathcote Harvest Festival website.