Tasmania’s Tastiest Weekend: A Journey to Bicheno’s Cult Coastal Festival
Turquoise waters. White sand beaches. Wine by the sea. Each November, Bicheno throws one of Tasmania’s most anticipated parties — the Bicheno Food and Wine Festival. It’s the kind of full-flavour frenzy that makes you rethink what a food fest can be.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill gourmet event. It’s a cheeky, delicious, beachside ritual that draws a loyal crowd year after year. The moment you roll into town, you’ll understand why.
Nestled between two national parks on the East Coast, Bicheno has long been one of Tasmania’s best-kept secrets — a place where migrating whales cruise past the headland, penguins waddle home at dusk, and locals wave from their porches. It was even recently voted one of Australia’s most welcoming towns — and it wears that title with pride.
There’s something about Bicheno. Maybe it’s the salt in the air, the warmth in the smiles, or the fact that everyone here seems to know how to have a good time. The community is a mix of old families, creative newcomers, friendly shackies, and volunteers who help bring the whole festival to life. It’s that small-town magic with big-taste energy — and it all comes to a head every November.
While the festival itself is a one-day-only affair, the smart ones turn it into a whole long-weekend adventure. Whether you’re driving up from Hobart, across from Launceston, or straight off the Spirit of Tasmania, Bicheno is perfectly placed as your base for exploring the East Coast. And when the main event hits? You’ll be glad you came hungry.
Bicheno Food and Wine Festival Survival Guide
1. Book your accommodation early
From oceanfront villas to cosy cabins, motels, tiny homes and beachside campsites — Bicheno’s got it all. But the word is out, and places book up fast. Lock it in early so you can stroll to the festival gates with coffee in hand.
2. Pack for sunshine… and everything else
Bicheno is famous for its sunshine — it’s often the warmest spot in Tassie — but coastal weather has a mind of its own. Bring a sunhat and sunscreen, but don’t forget a beanie and a jacket. You could see four seasons in a day, and that’s all part of the charm.
3. Bring a picnic rug — or maybe just your dancing shoes
Want to kick back with a glass of wine and take in the music? Bring a picnic rug or just grab a patch of grass — it’s that kind of day. No need to overpack: leave the pets, picnic baskets, tables, eskies, umbrellas, and tents at home. The festival is easy to navigate on foot, and most accommodation options are just a stroll away. Pack light, move freely, and save room for seconds (and thirds).
4. Arrive hungry
And we mean hungry. You’ll find some of Tassie’s tastiest morsels served up hot and fresh — think local seafood, woodfired pizza, dumplings, donuts, bao buns, desserts and more. The strategy? Divide and conquer. Split up, grab something different, and make your picnic a feast.
5. Come ready to dance
Music is the heartbeat of Bicheno, and the festival is no exception. From rising stars to local legends, the soundtrack is always top shelf. The vibe builds with every set, and before long the whole park becomes a dancefloor.
Whether you’re planning your next Tasmanian escape or just chasing flavour with a side of ocean breeze, the Bicheno Food and Wine Festival is the kind of experience that sticks. It’s where road trips end and traditions begin.
Come hungry. Leave converted.
