Bringing the Fleurieu Peninsula to Life Through Food, Wine & Stories

Picture this: rolling vineyard hills dotted with intimate tastings, the aroma of fresh seafood drifting from coastal kitchens, and families gathering on sun-dappled farms to celebrate the very best of South Australian produce. This was the magic of August's Fleurieu Food Festival — a month-long celebration that transformed the peninsula into a foodie's paradise.

What started as an ambitious vision became a delicious reality, with more than eighty events spanning the entire region. From intimate long lunches where conversations flowed as freely as the local wine, to bustling seafood feasts that captured the essence of our coastal heritage, every event told a story of passion, craft, and community.

The festival's official launch set the tone perfectly, with Hon. Clare Scriven MLC (representing Minister Bettison) and South Australian Tourism Commission CEO Emma Terry championing not just the incredible flavors on offer, but the vital role food tourism plays in celebrating our regional identity. Their enthusiasm reflected what we already knew — this wasn't just about great food and wine, it was about the people behind every bottle, every dish, every unforgettable experience.

Meeting the makers, tasting the terroir

The real stars of the festival were the producers, winemakers, and chefs who opened their doors and shared their stories. Visitors didn't just taste exceptional food — they discovered the passion projects behind each creation, the family traditions passed down through generations, and the innovative spirits pushing boundaries in paddock and kitchen alike.

Behind every seamlessly executed event was months of collaboration.

South Australia Destination Management Co. as festival director, worked hand-in-hand with local operators, councils, sponsors, and tourism bodies to ensure the festival delivered not just memorable experiences, but meaningful economic impact during the traditionally quieter winter months.

The Fleurieu Food Festival perfectly captures our mission: creating connections through authentic experiences that showcase the heart, soul, and extraordinary flavors of South Australia. Because the best stories aren't just told — they're tasted, shared, and celebrated together.