Time is running out to plant ideas with Central Coast Council for the 2018 Harvest Festival Central Coast.

Council is encouraging as many local producers as possible to be part of the popular event following a fruitful first year festival earlier this year.

Council Group Leader, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the inaugural Festival saw more than 10,000 people visit 23 events and activities over two days in June.

“This was a great way to launch the Festival, and we want to see it grow again next year,” Ms Vaughan said.

“We would love to have more farm gate sales and tours added to the 2018 program.

“Feedback we received shows visitors want to have a look beyond the gate and see how our local farms work – how it’s grown, produced and harvested, from the farm to the plate.

“We understand some produce won’t be in season in June, and that’s ok. It’s about telling the story of your farm and the hard work involved – how long it takes to grow an avocado, why we have horse farms or information on living sustainably.

“We have some great farms in our mountains and valleys – citrus, pecans, beef, macadamia, avocadoes, native foods, horses and much more, so let’s work together to tell your story to the Coast and beyond.”

Events will be held across six hubs at Peats Ridge, Calga, Somersby, Mangrove Mountain, Kulnura and Yarramalong. The program is designed to encourage festival-goers to follow an event trail supporting visitation at multiple hubs.

The Festival highlights the hidden gems of the valleys and mountains while celebrating the fantastic local produce and the producers on the Central Coast, showcasing their diversity through a range of events and activities.

“There are also a number of other producers on the Coast who have farms outside of our festival site. We have plenty of opportunities for all producers to get involved and showcase your produce - whether its oysters, fruit or wine,” Ms Vaughan added.

“Get in quickly with your ideas. Talk to us today about how you can help grow the Harvest Festival.

“Come along to our information night which will be held on Monday 11 September, 6pm at Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club to find out more information on how you can be involved.”

Expressions of Interest (EOI) close on Friday 22 September to participate in the 2018 Festival - which could be as simple as farm gate sales, markets, dining experiences, music events, art installations or community events.

Find out how you can be involved by visiting centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/harvestfestival