1 June 2026: Food lovers are being urged to lock in their winter plans, with the full program for The Curated Plate 2026 now officially revealed.
Between 24 July to 2 August, one of Queensland’s leading food and drink festivals will serve up its biggest and most wide-ranging program yet, featuring more than 50 events stretching from the Sunshine Coast hinterland to coastline.
Following last month’s early ticket release, demand has already exceeded expectations, with a number of events close to selling out as locals and visitors begin planning winter getaways around the 10-day festival.
Festival Culinary Director Peter Kuruvita said the response to the early release proved there was strong appetite for the festival’s mix of immersive food experiences, local produce and globally inspired cuisine.
“We’ve already seen incredibly strong demand from people wanting to secure tickets early, particularly for some of our more intimate dining experiences and returning festival favourites,” said Kuruvita.
“What excites me most about this year’s full program is the diversity of experiences on offer. You can go from a fire-cooked feast in the hinterland to a seafood lunch by the marina, a Sri Lankan-inspired garden party, a family picnic with Bluey, or a Japanese tuna cutting show – and experience different parts of the Sunshine Coast.”
“This year’s program really captures the Sunshine Coast’s evolving food story. It celebrates local producers and ingredients, but also the incredible cultural influences and creativity shaping the region’s dining scene right now.”
Among the newly released events include:
- An exclusive experience onboard the Da Biuso Bus which will roll into Happy Valley, Caloundra, bringing together Chef Biagio, Chef Joseph and Sommelier Sarah for an intimate Italian degustation overlooking the coastline.
- A Bush Harvest Morning Tea that will bring together a celebration of indigenous and international flavours with paddock-to-plate goodness at Fairhill Gardens
- An escape to New Orleans with smooth sounds of live jazz and a soulful long degustation lunch inspired by Southern charm, paired with award-winning wines from Brockenchack and the freshest produce Queensland has to offer.
- Trawler to Table will offer an intimate stillwater dining experience with Coastal Cruises Mooloolaba in partnership with the Mooloolaba Fish Market. Guests will enjoy a curated five-course tasting menu showcasing the region’s freshest catch, sourced directly from local trawlers
The 2026 festival program includes long lunches, chef collaborations, farm tours, live cooking demonstrations, producer experiences, family-friendly events and immersive cultural dining experiences designed to showcase the best of the Sunshine Coast’s food, farming and hospitality sectors.
Returning favourites including the Asian Food Festival at Spicers Tamarind, Picnic on Kings featuring Bluey, and the Mooloolaba Seafood Markets are expected to again attract strong demand, while new additions to the program are already creating strong interest.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said The Curated Plate highlighted the strength, creativity and collaboration of the Sunshine Coast’s food and hospitality industry, including the depth of talent and quality of produce across our region.
“With food tourism booming around the world, The Curated Plate is a perfect way for the Sunshine Coast to share our story,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Sensational food, magical encounters, fun and laughter – this year’s program is an open invitation for locals and visitors to experience the wonderful culinary adventures that make our region so special.”
Minister for Tourism, Andrew Powell said The Curated Plate highlighted Queensland as Australia’s events capital while showcasing the best of the Sunshine Coast’s food and tourism.
“Queensland is the events capital of Australia and experiences like The Curated Plate are driving visitors to stay and play across our regions,” Minister Powell said.
“These events encourage people to holiday on the Sunshine Coast, support local producers and businesses, and explore more of what the region has to offer.
“This year’s event is expected to deliver more than half a million dollars in visitor spend, creating jobs and real economic benefits for the local community.”
The Curated Plate is delivered in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, Visit Sunshine Coast, and Tourism and Events Queensland, alongside industry and community collaborators.
Tickets for all events are now available via thecuratedplate.com.au
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For more information, images and video please reach out to:
Jennifer Swaine | 0438952830 | jen@commspeople.au
Heather Mollins | 0412421411 | heather@commspeople.au