Upcoming Food Festivals for October
Victoria never disappoints with its amazing range of food and wine festivals throughout the year. There is something for everyone at these upcoming food festivals for October.
As the crisp winter air finally gives way to the warmth of spring, Victoria’s culinary scene truly comes alive. October marks a spectacular shift in the state’s food and beverage calendar, offering an ideal opportunity to head outdoors and explore the flavours our local producers have been preparing all year. From the bustling hospitality precincts of Melbourne to the sprawling, vine-laced valleys of our regional wine districts, this is the season where fresh, local produce takes the spotlight.
At Melbourne Food Festivals, we believe the best way to celebrate the warmer weather is by gathering with friends and family over exceptional food and world-class wine. Whether you are a dedicated wine enthusiast looking to sample award-winning regional pours, a culinary adventurer eager to experience immersive fire-cooked feasts, or a family searching for a vibrant weekend day out, Victoria’s spring lineup never disappoints.
To help you plan your tasting itinerary, we have curated a list of the most anticipated culinary events happening this month. Grab your calendar and discover something for everyone at these must-visit upcoming food festivals for October.
Victorian Salami Festival
- Date: 3 October
- Location: Dal Zotto Wines, King Valley (Whitfield)
- Cost: General admission $125 – $135
What started as a small gathering of friends has become a much-loved annual celebration of Italian heritage, uniting makers, families, and food lovers around a shared respect for this time-honoured craft. As the seasons shift, Italian households prepare for one of their most cherished rituals: salami making.
Hosted alongside an annual salami-making competition, winners are announced and awarded prizes during the festival. Attendees can enjoy a complimentary glass of Dal Zotto Pucino Prosecco on arrival, followed by an authentic four-course Italian feast provided by Rinaldo’s Casa Cucina. The day is filled with salami-making demonstrations, market stalls, and live music.
Heathcote Wine and Food Festival
- Date: 10-11 October
- Location: Heathcote Showgrounds
- Cost: $65 drinker (one day), $25 non-drinker (one day), $110 general 2-day admission
The Heathcote Wine & Food Festival returns to the Heathcote Showgrounds, bringing its celebrated regional wines back to the crowd. Sample pours from more than 40 local producers and be among the first to taste new-release wines, including international and national award winners from this famous full-bodied Shiraz region.
Enjoy live music on a stage curated by Bendigo Blues & Roots or join in a game of lawn badminton. The showgrounds transform into a family-friendly village setting, featuring dedicated kids’ entertainment. Please note that this is a strict no-BYO alcohol event, and dogs are not permitted.
Food, Fire and Light at Sovereign Hill
- Date: 11-12 October & 18-19 October
- Location: Sovereign Hill, Ballarat
- Cost: $68, $55.50 concession
Be mesmerised by performances dancing with flames at this immersive, sensory festival designed to celebrate the historical significance of fire in the Goldfields. Watch in awe as skilled fire-twirlers and performers light up the night skies alongside captivating light and visual displays.
Savour a bold and vibrant menu bursting with smoky and scorching treats, and watch the artistry of food being cooked over open flames. Finish the evening with the festival’s signature gold-dusted cocktails, a luxurious nod to Sovereign Hill’s rich gold rush history.
Shedfest Yarra Valley Wine Festival
- Date: 10-11 October
- Location: Multiple cellar doors and winery sheds in the Yarra Valley
- Cost: From $29.95 to $100 (Early bird and VIP packages available)
Come and enjoy this dog-friendly festival, with 16 family-owned wineries across the Yarra Valley opening their cellar doors for a self-guided regional wine trail. Because the event spans multiple working cellar doors, you can choose your own route and pace through towns like Seville, Coldstream, and Healesville.
Each winery creates its own unique ambience, pairing tastings with great food and entertainment. You’ll find decadent dishes ranging from gourmet pizzas and bao to smoked meats and burgers. There’s fun for everyone with petting zoos, live music, and lawn games. As an added bonus, children and designated drivers receive free entry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there more festivals in the Yarra Valley?
The Yarra Valley is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, extending well beyond food and wine. The Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a standout spring highlight that draws visitors from all over Victoria.
What’s the biggest festival in Melbourne?
The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is the largest culinary celebration in the state, featuring more than 200 distinct events across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Are food festivals fun during spring?
Spring is an ideal season for festival-goers. It offers the chance to taste fresh, seasonal spring produce, take advantage of the milder weather for outdoor dining, and participate in vineyard walks and orchard tours.
What are some other types of festivals in Melbourne in spring?
Melbourne hosts a variety of major events in spring, including celebrated flower festivals, the iconic Spring Racing Carnival, and wide-ranging multicultural and arts festivals.
Check out Melbourne Food Festivals throughout the year so you never miss out on fantastic food and beverage festivals!
Melbourne Food Festivals is an online directory filled with all the info you need about food festivals, food trucks and food expos. Check Melbourne Food Festivals often so you never miss out!