The Central Coast is known for stunning beaches but the region’s exceptionally beautiful and fertile hinterland is set to shine at the unique Harvest Festival.

Central Coast Council will host the region’s third Harvest Festival across the June long weekend and the event promises to be bigger and better than ever with its trademark focus on farm, friends, food and fun.

Council Unit Manager Community Partnerships, Glenn Cannard said Harvest Festival celebrates exceptional fresh and seasonal local produce amidst a backdrop of stunning views.

“Harvest Festival is all about sharing one of the Central Coast’s best kept secrets – our stunning hinterland region,” Mr Cannard said.

“This event gives us a unique glimpse behind the farm gate and an opportunity to explore eight rural farming communities and their picturesque heritage villages.

“We invite locals and visitors to explore our lively event hubs and follow the event trail through Dooralong, Jilliby, Yarramalong, Kulnura, Mangrove Mountain, Peats Ridge, Somersby and Calga.

“Be treated to fantastic food and wine experiences, soak up the live music and free entertainment or wander through our orchards and pick your own produce – there is something for everyone.”

Mayor Jane Smith said Harvest Festival offered a unique opportunity for locals and tourists to explore some of the Central Coast’s rural pockets.

“We are blessed to have such a beautiful and fertile hinterland on our doorstep and I’d encourage locals and tourists alike to enjoy the full program of events on offer at Harvest Festival, including eating your fill of delicious locally grown food,” Mayor Smith said. 

“Harvest Festival brings a great deal to the Central Coast – it builds local pride, celebrates sustainability and boosts the economy.

“This much-loved event is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, and contributes to the continued growth and development of the Central Coast.” 

Harvest Festival Central Coast is supported by Destination NSW’s Regional Flagship Events Program.

Event attendees can experience working farm tours, bush tucker and fruit factory tours, eco warrior and edible flower workshops, or follow the Wyong River from Kulnura to Wyong and learn about the environment and waterways before enjoying a delicious lunch. 

The 2018 event attracted over 16,000 people, up 60 percent from the inaugural event, and provided the Central Coast economy with a $3.7million boost. 

Harvest Festival 2019 will run from 8 to 9 June and a free shuttle bus service will be in operation.

For more information, or to view the full program and shuttle bus schedule visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/harvestfestival.