Australia’s longest-running regional food festival is back for another year, and we’ve got the lowdown on why you need to add this cultural event to your annual agenda, and exactly what you can expect from the line-up.

As they celebrate 35 years championing the Orange region’s producers, wines and culinary talent, FOOD Week 2026 is every food and wine lover’s dream come true. From hands-on workshops for those looking to sharpen their culinary skills, to tastings that’ll leave your mouth-watering, FOOD Week 2026 is an annual community event that welcomes in visitors for a taste of the very best the region has to offer.

In the last five years, regional travel in New South Wales and Australian states has exploded, and for good reason. With so many beautiful sights to see, foods to eat and activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder locals are flocking to the quiet-escape of regional towns to see what’s out there. Quiet country drives, cosy sleep-ins and the clearest skies you’ll ever see, when you choose Orange for your next country adventure, you’re choosing culture, connection, and the finest foods and wines in the state.

Harvest & Bake: Apple Pie Workshop | Friday, March 20th
Starting with a guided orchard tour, you’ll get hands on experience making and baking your own apple pie using local fruit and Grandma’s cherished recipe. Have your pie and eat it too!

Book here.

An Evening with Aaron Ward | Saturday, March 21st
Aaron Ward of Bathers’ Pavillion will bring his menu to Phillip Shaw Wines’ bluestone cellar door for one-night only, plating up a multi-course meal with cool-climate wines to suit.

Book here.

Nonna’s 80th Anniversary Long Lunch | Sunday, March 22nd
An iconic FOOD Week event, Nonna’s Long Lunch is an Italian Family feast hosted at Highland Heritage Wines. With sparkling on arrival, traditional dishes cooked by Nonna, live music and sweeping vineyards, this isn’t one to miss if you’re visiting for the week.

Book here.

Lucetta at Heifer Station | Monday, March 23rd
Taking over Barrel Shed for one-night only, guests will enjoy bubbles and canapés by Lucetta Francesco Zarrella, followed by a generous Italian long-table feast paired by Heifer Station wines. Limited to just 50 seats, get in quick to savour this one.

Book here.

East Miso West | Thursday, March 26th
Featuring Miso-enhanced Australian dishes paired with De Salis Wines, this bold fusion of Japanese tradition and local flavour will leave you feeling inspired when it comes to cultural food pairings.

Book here.

Locally Grown with Joel Bickford | Friday, March 27th
Hosted by acclaimed Chef Joel Bickford, this elevated four-course dinner joined by sommelier Alex Kirkwood this menu will serve up all the very best the Orange farms region have to offer, washed down with some cool-climate wines. For just one-night only, it’s one to add to your list.

Book here.

Printhie Wines Harvest Lunch | Saturday, March 28th
Celebrate the vintage season in Orange with a three-course long lunch nestled within the regions vines. Featuring a seasonal menu by Printhie Dining, you’ll experience the very best of Orange in one afternoon.

Book here.

Meet the Producers Series | Sunday, March 22nd to Monday, March 29th
Running across FOOD Week, this series will see guests experience a rare insight into the people behind Orange’s cheese fermentation, olive oil, saffron and orchard produce. One of the most popular activities on offer, there will be five intimate workshops on offer available to book – but you better get in quick! They’re selling fast.

These run all week long, to select from each date, explore here.