Norco Eat the Street will return to the Lismore CBD on Saturday, 22 August, with the city’s annual food, arts and culture festival set to take over Keen Street and The Quad from 12pm to 7pm.
The event will feature local food vendors, live entertainment and family-friendly activities, with the festival moving from its previous November timeslot to August following community feedback seeking cooler conditions.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said this year’s festival would build on the success of last year’s return after a four-year hiatus.
“Last year proved just how deeply missed Eat the Street was, with around 10,000 people coming together to fill our streets with life, and fantastic local food,” Krieg said.
“Now that the festival is firmly back on the calendar, we are focused on growing it further, providing an even bigger platform for our local cafes, restaurants and producers.
“Events like this play a vital role in continuing to position Lismore as a leading regional events destination. We have the space, we have the incredible local talent, and we have a passionate community that knows how to back major cultural and culinary experiences.”
Norco Chief Executive Officer Michael Hampson said the dairy co-operative was proud to continue as the event’s naming rights partner.
“As a 100% Australian farmer-owned dairy co-operative with deep roots in the Northern Rivers, supporting our local community and celebrating outstanding regional produce is at the heart of everything we do,” Hampson said.
“Eat the Street is a fantastic celebration of Lismore’s vibrant food culture, and we are thrilled to help deliver an event that provides such a massive boost to our local retailers, producers and families.”
This year’s festival will include an expanded food precinct with additional vendors and a broader range of culinary offerings from across the Northern Rivers.
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the event was supported through the NSW Government’s Open Streets program.
“The Minns Government is funding Eat the Street through the Open Streets program, which is about transforming our streets into vibrant public spaces.” she said.
“The return of Eat the Street to downtown Lismore last year was a wonderful celebration of local food, creativity and community spirit and I’m excited to see how this year’s event will build on that success.
“I continue to back local events like this because they give businesses a boost, showcase our creative sector and bring people together in the heart of the community.”
The program will include the return of the Pie Eating Competition and the latte art competition, alongside a new Waiters’ Race for local hospitality workers.
Live entertainment will include the Cake and Cordial Sessions, a family-friendly songwriter showcase featuring alt-country and folk performers, as well as a busking competition highlighting local musicians.
Lismore City Council Events and Facilities Lead Jeremy Sheaffe said preparations for the festival were progressing well.
“The response from our local businesses has been fantastic, and we are tracking toward an incredible lineup of food stalls, diverse menus and unique treats,” Sheaffe said.
“It is shaping up to be a brilliant day for food lovers, families and visitors alike, and we can’t wait to see Keen Street buzzing with energy as everyone comes down to taste, explore and enjoy the atmosphere.”
For program updates, visit https://www.visitlismore.com.au/eatthestreet/ or follow Eat the Street on social media.
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