An almost 50 percent increase in visitors is prompting a leading Queensland food and drink festival to “take it to a new level” next year.
The Curated Plate, which takes place on the Sunshine Coast over July and August each year, is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the 2026 program after a bumper 2025 event.
Festival Culinary Director Peter Kuruvita said organisers were looking for creative event ideas and collaborations after more than 10,000 locals and visitors were wined and dined this year.
Mr Kuruvita, who will again stoke the creative juices for the 2026 event, said that was a 45 percent increase on the previous year for the 10-day program.
He said with the 2026 festival dates confirmed for Friday, July 24 to Sunday, August 2, it was time for food and drink producers, restaurants, venues, and tourism experiences to “take their seat at the table”.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for local industry to showcase their creativity while celebrating the Sunshine Coast’s producers and landscapes.
“This year’s program was the most diverse and successful yet – from paddock-to-plate feasts and seafood celebrations at Mooloolaba, to family-friendly events and international culinary experiences, the Sunshine Coast truly shone.
“For 2026, we want to build on this momentum and welcome even more unique concepts that spotlight our local talent and ingredients.
“We’re open and we want to hear from you – think creatively, and let’s take this to a new level.”
Sunshine Coast Resilient Economy Portfolio Councilor Joe Natoli said the popular experiences from this year could serve as inspiration, including agri-tourism events where visitors could learn a new skill or enjoy an experience they can’t get on an ordinary day.
“Collaborations and partnerships are also encouraged – for those who may not wish to host their own event, opportunities exist to partner with a restaurant, venue or tourism operator,” Cr Natoli said.
“The focus remains on celebrating the Sunshine Coast’s diversity of cuisines while ensuring menus hero local ingredients.
“The event will continue to grow and become more high-profile, especially as the region prepares to step into the international spotlight during Brisbane 2032.”
Cr Natoli said each business managed its own event logistics and ticketing, with support provided through festival marketing and communications.
He said The Curated Plate was delivered in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, Visit Sunshine Coast and Tourism and Events Queensland, alongside industry and community collaborators.
EOIs for The Curated Plate 2026 close December 1 and can be submitted online.
