The Bellarine Peninsula’s celebration of seafood delights returns this weekend with drinks, live music and – of course – local mussels.
The 12th Portarlington Mussel Festival kicks off on Saturday, featuring more than 100 market stalls selling crafts, gifts and local food, wines and beer.
The festival will hold its first ever prize draw featuring vouchers for local holidays, ferry trips and family mini golf days.
“We also have cooking demonstrations to show you how to prepare delicious Portarlington mussels,” said festival publicist Christine Graunas.
Also new to the festival is headline act The Eagles Story. The cover artists will join an eclectic mix of jazz, rockabilly and folk musicians on the event’s four stages.
Magicians, clowns and jumping castles will entertain the little ones, while families can enjoy car and arts shows, and a visit from the ship Enterprize.
“There are more activities for the kids and food and drink stands than ever,” Christine said.
“There are more souvenirs for sale too – we have showbags this year, which include vouchers for local activities and festival merchandise.”
The festival promoted the Bellarine Peninsula’s food, wine and mussel industry, Christine said.
“As a local festival produced by the local community it is about showcasing the growing number of locals who cover the wide spectrum of performing arts.”
Port Phillip Ferries hoped to run extra services for mussel-seeking tourists after selling out the midday service during the festival last year, a company spokesperson said.
