With so much on this month, the Newcastle Weekly has picked out three highlights to satisfy everyone.

Newcastle Food Month 

1 to 30 April 

The hugely-popular Newcastle Food Month will return for its third edition in 2023, with a couple of surprises. 

Showcasing the culinary and creative talent of Newcastle’s burgeoning food scene, it’s poised to be a plentiful program with an event for every kind of foodie, from wine to beer and lots of cheese. 

Mingle with local winemakers at their favourite hangouts, dine in hatted restaurants or on degustations any way you like them – French, Italian, Thai or Seafood. 

As well, all the big names in Newcastle’s dining scene such as the Roundhouse at Crystalbrook Kingsley, The Flotilla, Harrisons and The Signal Box have designed their own unique events. 

There are also lots of opportunities to eat out at the city’s great casual cafes, pubs and clubs. 

Plate Date is back, too. 

More than 40 establishments will offer a brunch, lunch or dinner, including a beverage for only $25. 

The program is available at www.newcastlefoodmonth.com.au 

Hunter Valley Steamfest 

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 April 

The 35th edition of the much-loved Hunter Valley Steamfest will take place at Maitland Railway Station and the Steamfest Rally Ground, with a bumper program of train journeys, activities and much more. 

After being impacted by the COVID pandemic and heavy flooding, anticipation’s now high the locomotive spectacular is back on track. 

Visitors can purchase tickets on one of the many steam or heritage diesel train journeys, wander through the Railway Street Collectors Market, be thrilled by the amusement rides, fortune telling and mystical moments in Carnival Lane, enjoy music and delicious food from the many vendors on offer. 

On the Rally Ground, explore the display of antique machinery, portable and traction engines, jump on board the trackless train or be transported back in time. 

On Sunday, in Maitland Park, the Show ‘n’ Shine will feature more than 500 cars of all makes and models. 

Go to www.steamfest.com.au to secure your tickets. 

Equestrian in the Vines 

Friday 28 to Sunday 30 April 

The unique Equestrian in the Vines will take place at a new purpose-built facility located within the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, near Cessnock. 

Hosted by HorseSport Australia, the inaugural event features dressage (classes will cater for adults, juniors and Riding with Disability (RWD) –?preparatory, preliminary and novice), jumping, show horse and Fashions on the Field, making it a true spectacle of the sport.  

Free to the general public and equine enthusiasts, spectators can visit anytime on Friday 28 (8am-5pm), Saturday 29 (8am-5pm) and Sunday 30 April (8am-4pm). 

And, that’s not all. 

Trade stands and demonstrations will be included as well as lots of things for the entire family. 

There’ll also be kids’ activities, including jumping castle and pony rides, food trucks, fete stalls, craft beer and cider. 

Visitors can stay on site and enjoy all the extras available – there’s something for everyone. 

For further information, visit the HorseSport Australia website. 

For more entertainment stories:

• Float your boat: time to deck out your rig
• Filmmaker Jye Currie joins Craig Hamilton in ‘The Promise’
• A celebration of friendship that doesn’t shy away from truth

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