The return of Central Coast Council’s much-loved Harvest Festival over the 12-13 June long weekend has been hailed a great success, drawing record crowds to the Coast’s hinterland communities and providing a welcomed boost to the region’s economy.

A celebration of the spectacular Central Coast hinterland, this year’s Harvest Festival saw 30 event hubs run a range of unique events and experiences from farm tours, fruit picking and produce markets to food and wine fairs, degustation dinners and live entertainment.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said over 48,000 people attended the festival, bringing an estimated economic boost of $5.39 million to our region.

“We are delighted to report that over 48,000 locals and visitors stepped out to enjoy Harvest Festival over the long weekend, which marks an increase of 16,000 people from our 2019 event,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Our event hubs received an abundance of positive feedback from participants and visitors, many of which travelled from Sydney and beyond to experience the unique events taking place and explore the Coast’s rural communities.

“A huge thank you to our attendees for being respectful and following COVID-safe rules throughout the weekend. The success of this year’s Harvest Festival is a positive indication that we can continue to offer these much-loved events, while prioritising the safety of our community.”

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said Harvest Festival makes a great contribution to the local economy, providing local employment opportunities, highlighting sustainable farming practices and shining a spotlight on the Central Coast.

“Harvest Festival promotes the region’s local growers and producers, celebrates the Central Coast’s natural resources and is highly valuable for our tourism industry, with an estimated $5.39million being injected directly into our economy as a result of the event.

“Tourism is a significant industry on the Coast and an area where we are committed to growing more jobs and opportunities.

“This event is a great example of how we can create tourism opportunities that protect the local character and environment of our region.”