Mad March in Melbourne
March is all about festivals in Melbourne and what better way to start than with the 24th Melbourne food and wine festival?
Celebrate everything gourmet, gustatory and gorgeous at the festival, which is now on at various locations in Melbourne until Sunday, 13 March.
I well remember the first World's Longest Lunch, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 1992 where 500 of us lucky diners were treated to delectable dishes created by the talented team from Peter Rowland Catering.
Everything was served on time and in between courses we passed around the sunscreen from big pump bottles as it was a balmy autumn day.
Since then I have enjoyed the longest lunches under the shady trees at Fitzroy Gardens, Docklands and St Kilda pier.
This year I visited Oakridge urban vineyard and AVPN Pizza Fest at Crown Riverwalk and am looking forward to the Port Phillip Mussel Festival at South Melbourne Market on Saturday and Sunday, 12 and 13 March, where legendary chef Geoff Lindsay will be cooking luscious mussel dishes, among others, and jazz bands will entertain, New Orleans-style.
I will also visit the South East Asia festival, featuring community projects involving ASEAN communities around Victoria, as well as authentic foods from Melbourne restaurants.
Enjoy traditional music, dance, games and kids’ activities.
This will be at Argyle Square, Carlton, also on Saturday and Sunday, 12 and 13 March.
And, if you have the stamina for more events, follow the Flemington Grazing Trail and Cellar Door at Flemington Racecourse on Saturday, March12 and check out the offerings from Seppelt, James Squire, Mount Zero olives, Cooper's Pies, Outback Spirit and Ministry of Chocolate.
Just run that extra mile after the festival!
www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au
Melbourne International Flower and Garden show.
The Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show (MIFGS) celebrates its 21st birthday this year at the iconic heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens from 16 March to 20 March.
There is a whole array of new exhibits, events and local and international talent from the landsscaping and floristry industries.
This year sees a night to remember when the gates open for Gardens by Twilight on Friday. 18 March from 6 to 9.30pm.
The displays will have a magical twilight backdrop and in keeping with the theme, there will be entertainment galore, food and drinks to keep everyone happy.
The Gardens will be awash with magnificent lighting which will highlight the natural beauty of the venue
Live fire acts, glow performances and buskers will keep everyone entertained, while Melbourne's food trucks, including A Salted Squid, Speedy Gonzales and Let's Do Yum Cha will keep tummies happy.
