Tasmania’s Taste of Summer festival records biggest crowd yet

Tasmania’s Taste of Summer festival has wrapped up its latest run with record attendance, drawing more than 98,000 people to Hobart’s waterfront between December 27 and January 3. The figure marks an increase on last season’s 87,000 attendees and reinforces the festival’s role as a major drawcard during Tasmania’s peak summer period. The event continues to blend food, drink and entertainment in a way that appeals to both locals and visitors travelling from interstate and overseas. Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events Jane Howlett congratulated the festival’s organisers on the result. “The Taste of Summer’s continued growth reflects the festival’s ability to showcase Tasmania at its best,” she said. “The festival brings together outstanding local produce, diverse culinary experiences and a strong entertainment program, alongside family-friendly activities that appeal to the whole community.” This year’s program featured more than 80 stallholders serving everything from fresh seafood to wine, beer and spirits, alongside a broad mix of cuisines. “This year locals and visitors alike were treated to everything from fresh seafood to world-class wine, beer and spirits, and dishes from around the world, from over 80 stallholders,” Howlett said. “The organisers have been working to grow the regional spread of producers showcased by the event, with over 25 per cent of the stallholders hailing from outside of Hobart.” With many attendees travelling from interstate or overseas, the festival continues to play a role in positioning Tasmania as a food and travel destination during the summer holiday period. The event is backed by the Tasmanian Government as part of its broader support for the state’s events sector. Find more food and drink news on Crumb Wire.

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ICYMI: Shake Shack to make Aussie debut

In case you missed it: Iconic American burger chain Shake Shack is set to make its Australian debut at the 2026 Australian Open. Appearing as a pop-up stall from January 12 to February 1, the brand’s first foray into the Australian market acts as a test run. A positive response from locals could pave the way for more permanent restaurants in the future. In October 2025, when Shake Shack’s visit down under was confirmed, Fern Barrett, Tennis Australia’s Head of Product Growth and Innovation – Premium Experiences and Food, said: “For many fans, their first Shake Shack burger or shake will be part of their AO 2026 experience, which is so exciting. “Shake Shack’s arrival at the AO underlines how much this event has grown beyond the court, it’s a festival of food, sport and culture.” Australian tennis player and self-proclaimed Shake-Shack-Lover Daria Saville (@daria_sav) shared her excitement in a post saying: “Shake shack at the Australian Open? Oh my god – best news ever!” AO! What’s on the menu? Menu items set to appear on the AO menu include: The classic Shack Burger – A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato and ShackSauce The ‘Shroom Burger – Crisp-fried portobello mushroom filled with melted cheese, topped with lettuce, tomato and ShackSauce The Shack Stack – A combination of the Shack and ‘Shroom burgers In a first for the brand, the pop-up, positioned at TOPCOURT, will serve patties made with Australian Angus beef. Shake Shack’s ever-popular crinkle cut fries, both plain and cheese-topped, will also be available for purchase. Other than the burgers and fries, guests can also expect to find the brand’s Mango Passionade and Classic Lemonade on the menu, along with some custom shakes to be revealed later. The brand will also be offering an exclusive, limited-edition Australian Open Shake. Find more food and drink news on Crumb Wire.

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