If smashing plates or eating seafood is your bag, Megan Singleton finds fun for you.
1. Ginger Flower and Food Festival
If you're a ginger fan, you'll love the 20th annual Ginger Festival among the subtropical gardens at the Ginger Factory in Yandina. There will be cooking demonstrations, organic gardening workshops and plenty of ornamental and edible gingers to taste and learn about. The ginger scones are worth driving from Brisbane for.
When: January 22-24
Where: Yandina, Sunshine Coast
2. Feast of the Senses
Come hungry to this festival showcasing the amazing array of tropical fruit, seafood and fresh produce of the Cassowary Coast region. This 10-day event promises to dazzle the eyes, the nose and the taste buds, offering 100 stalls, photography, cooking competitions and local entertainment.
When: March 12-20
Where: Innisfail, Cassowary Coast
3. Noosa International Food and Wine Festival
In its 12th year, Noosa's food and wine festival is firmly ensconced on the palate of international foodies, celebrity chefs, food critics and locals who have watched it grow from just 150 guests into the event it is today. Think fresh seafood from the ocean and rivers, greens from the lush hinterland, and exotic fruits, herbs and spices plus masterclasses, dinners and cocktail parties for all.
When: May 19-22
Where: Noosa Heads, Sunshine Coast
4. Port Douglas Carnivale
For 10 days in May, Port Douglas is abuzz. Plenty of local food and wine keeps the hungry happy, but add market stalls, street musicians and artists alongside the famous "longest lunch" and you have an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza on the white sandy beach of tropical North Queensland.
When: May 20-29
Where: Port Douglas, Queensland
