Gascoyne Food Festival 2025 Starts Tomorrow

From Blues to Ballads, Firelight to Funk – The Festival Kicks Off with a Rhythm All Its Own

The wait is nearly over. This Saturday marks the start of the 2025 Gascoyne Food Festival – and while the food is always front and centre, this year we’re turning up the volume and setting the tone with an incredible lineup of live entertainment across the region.

The Gascoyne has always been about more than just produce – it’s about atmosphere, connection, and those unforgettable moments that linger long after the last plate has been cleared. This year’s festival promises a soundtrack as memorable as the menus.

An exciting new addition to the festival program is the Mexican Fiesta at The Shack in Exmouth on Friday 8 August, where none other than Michael Vdelli – one of Australia’s most electrifying blues musicians – will take to the stage. Known for his high-octane performances and gritty, soulful sound, Vdelli brings decades of international touring experience and a reputation as a true blues-rock legend. Set against the laid-back coastal backdrop of Exmouth, this promises to be a night of raw energy and musical joy, with a Mexican seafood fiesta to die for. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss out – book now.

But before we shift gears and head to Exmouth, the Festival opens tomorrow, Saturday 26 July, with the much-loved Long Table Lunch in Carnarvon. This event has long been the jewel in the festival crown – and this year, guests will be serenaded by Vivid Music, a jazz duo whose smooth melodies pair perfectly with the stunning setting and exquisite cuisine. With white linen tables stretching through the lush, iconic banana plantation and a menu crafted by internationally acclaimed chef Ben Ing, this is an afternoon of sensory indulgence like no other.

The celebrations continue on Sunday late afternoon from 4pm to 7pm, as the Carnarvon Fascine comes alive for the Great Feast & Groove. The powerhouse vocal duo Aviida will bring soul, passion and sparkle to the evening, their commanding vocals and magnetic stage presence lighting up the waterfront. And just when you think the night can’t get more spectacular, the Fire Rovers will arrive with a fiery display of movement, rhythm and flame. With a line-up of food trucks serving up signature Gascoyne dishes and a family-friendly vibe, this is an event not to be missed. It’s free entry, so just come on down.

The magic continues into next week with a range of hands-on workshops, offering a chance to get up close with the artisans and producers who shape the region. Join sourdough baking, kombucha-making or cheese-making sessions and take home more than just memories.

On Wednesday 30 July, the tone shifts again for the intimate and soulful Around the Firepit. Set in the red heart of the Gascoyne, this is a night of stories, smoke, and starlight. Local singer-songwriter Charlie Mezza will weave an acoustic spell with his gentle melodies and honest lyrics. It’s the kind of evening that reminds you why this region is so special – unfiltered, soulful and steeped in connection to land and people. There are only a few tickets left for this event, so get in quickly to avoid missing out.

And finally, we wrap up the Carnarvon leg of the Festival with a crowd favourite – the Prawns and Pimms Race Day at the Massey Bay Racecourse. It’s everything you love about race day, with a Gascoyne twist: decadent prawns, free-flowing Pimms, TABtouch coupons, and the chance to dress up in produce-inspired fascinators and hats. It’s guaranteed to be a vibrant, flavour-filled afternoon that ends the Carnarvon leg of the Festival in true country style.

If you haven’t booked your tickets yet, there’s still time for some events – but don’t wait. The countdown is on, and the stage is set. We’ll see you there.