The Portarlington Mussel Festival is back for a day of great food, drink and even better – mussels – as it celebrates its 16th year.
The annual festival will return to Portarlington Park on January 11 from 9.30am to 5pm with many food and drink stalls, a variety of music and entertainment, a cooking tent and boats selling fresh mussels.
Festival director Jenny Banks said Portarlington had been producing some of Australia’s tastiest mussels since 1982 and that the festival was a chance to showcase what the region had to offer.
“It’s always about showcasing the mussels that are growing around Portarlington and the Bellarine Peninsula,” she said.
“The size and sweetness of Portarlington’s mussels help them stand out, and I understand they were slightly undersized last year, but I don’t believe that’s the issue this year.
“There is an emphasis on mussels… but if mussels aren’t your thing, there are other food vendors there, and I’m sure you’ll find something that will take your fancy and fill your tummy.
“It’s a real showcase of the Bellarine Peninsula and the mussel festival is a way to celebrate the region… and I’m looking forward to seeing everybody having a good time and enjoying themselves.”
The festival will also host an art show with more than 30 artists from across the Bellarine displaying and selling their work in Parks Hall during the day.
The event’s entertainment will showcase performances from a Robbie Williams tribute band, The Sound Collective, Hot Club Swing, Matt Orchard, and many other great artists and roving entertainment.
There will also be hourly cooking demonstrations in Rie’s Kitchen in the cooking tent and a jumping castle during the day.
Visit portmusselfestival.com for an entertainment schedule and more information about the Portarlington Mussel Festival.
