News Taste the Wild Side of Mallacoota
25 – 27 Sep | Hook into a weekend of fresh seafood, family fun and coastal adventures in beautiful Mallacoota.
Fresh off the boat. Straight from the sea. Served with a side of coastal adventure.
If you're looking for an excuse to escape to Gippsland this spring, the Wild Harvest Seafood Festival is it. From 25 - 27 September 2026, Mallacoota comes alive with three days of incredible seafood, live music, family fun and unforgettable experiences celebrating one of Australia's most spectacular coastal destinations. The festival has become one of East Gippsland's must-do events, bringing together the freshest local catch, passionate producers and a community that lives and breathes the ocean.
WILD HARVEST SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
WHEN: Fri 25 – Sun 27 Sep 2026
WHERE: Mallacoota, East Gippsland
More info: wildharvestseafoodfestival.com
The hero of the weekend is the much-loved Wild Harvest Market - a feast for all the senses. Wander between stalls showcasing seafood fresh from the pristine waters of Bass Strait, sample local produce, browse handcrafted treasures and discover nautically inspired art, all while soaking up the relaxed seaside atmosphere. From oysters and abalone to sea urchins, mussels and more, it's the kind of market where every stop is worth a taste.
This is a celebration of a place where the sea is so much more than just part of the landscape. Mallacoota's connection to the water stretches back generations, and this year's festival shares that story through a specially produced short film exploring life above and below the surface. It's a moving reminder of why locals proudly say saltwater runs in their veins.
Spend the morning discovering colourful creatures hiding among the rock pools on a guided beach exploration, or learn a few tricks of the trade during a family fishing clinic before trying your luck at catching dinner.
Keen to give back while you're here? Join the Friends of Mallacoota for an "all hands on deck" beach clean-up and help keep this beautiful stretch of coastline looking its best.
If your perfect weekend includes great tunes and creative vibes, you're in the right place. Live music will spill out across multiple venues throughout town, showcasing talented musicians from East Gippsland and the Far South Coast, while MA Space will be buzzing with art installations and exhibitions inspired by the sea.
Of course, one of the best things about visiting the Wild Harvest Seafood Festival is that you're already in one of Gippsland's most breathtaking destinations.
Stay a little longer and explore the pristine beaches, paddle the calm waters of Mallacoota Inlet, hike through the ancient wilderness of Croajingolong National Park, or simply slow down and soak up the salty air. Spot native wildlife, watch the sun rise over the ocean, linger over long lunches and discover why this far-flung corner of Victoria feels wonderfully untouched.
Whether you're planning a foodie road trip, a spring family holiday or a long weekend with friends, the Wild Harvest Seafood Festival is the perfect excuse to head east.
Published on under: Eat & Drink