SOVEREIGN Place Town Centre will come alive with Twilight Tastings 2026, bringing together fine food, wine, beer, and live entertainment – and a serving of community spirit.
The free event will be held from 3 pm to 7 pm on Saturday, 5 September, offering visitors the opportunity to sample products from local and national producers, while meeting the makers and suppliers behind the brands.
Ritchies IGA’s Tim Walker said preparations were coming together nicely, despite initial concerns about the weather.
“The weather has panned out beautifully, and everything is coming together for what should be a fantastic afternoon,” Mr Walker said.
“The idea behind Twilight Tastings is to bring together local and national wine, beer and food producers in the one location.
“We hope it can continue to grow and become an iconic event for the Greater Port Macquarie region.”
Among the special guests will be renowned winemaker Neil McGuigan, while MasterChef Australia Top 8 contestant and World Food Championships finalist Sumeet Saigal will present a live cooking demonstration.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy curated fine food options, local flavours and a selection of wine and beverage tastings.
Suppliers and producers will be on hand to share their knowledge and offer event-day deals.
Providing the soundtrack for the afternoon will be Black Magic, a 10-piece band performing live as the sun sets over Sovereign Place.
A special barrel raffle will offer prizes, including accommodation at Leogate Estate and a vineyard tour.
Twilight Tastings is proudly supporting the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, adding an important fundraising element to the community celebration.
Ritchies IGA organised the event with the support of Sovereign Place Centre representative Shae Brims, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, and Ritchies NSW State Liquor Manager Garth Tetley.
Sancrox Rural Fire Brigade will also assist with parking.
Mr Walker believes Twilight Tastings has the potential to become broader and bigger.
“We would love to see it grow into a signature local event to showcase quality food and beverages, while bringing people together,” he said.
Families and groups of friends are encouraged to enjoy a free afternoon of fine food, tastings, live music and community connection.
By Luke HADFIELD
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