Throw on your sunnies, roll out the picnic rug and have your epicurean swagger at the ready, The Peninsula Picnic, presented by INFINITI, is back with a new day, a hot line-up and a menu choc-full of local food and wine.

On Saturday April 1 the thermostat will be set securely to ‘vino and chill’ as Melbourne rhythm ensemble The Cat Empire headline the festival line-up, supported by Bob Evans (Jebediah frontman), Sydney folk angels All Our Exes Live in Texas and local up-and-comers nyck and Harrison Storm.

Nine of the region’s best restaurants and five wineries have been handpicked to keep the crowds buzzing across the one-day festival, including Max’s at Red Hill, Merricks General Wine Store, Alatonero, Montalto, Green Olive, D.O.C Mornington and Flinders Hotel all popping up to fill your basket and your glass.

Adam D’Sylva, Executive Chef of Coda and Tonka, along with local producers and providores, will run cooking demonstrations and tastings from the Peninsula Pantry farmers market, where you can sip, nibble and taste your way through some of the region’s best produce.

Pitched among the pristine greenery of the Mornington Racecourse, seamlessly blending the authenticity of a food and wine event with the fun and energy of a live music festival, The Peninsula Picnic presented by Infiniti, has built a name for itself as one of the best boutique festivals the state has to offer. Organisers have expanded the event space for a greater audience, and more great real estate to spread your rug.