CheeseFest, South Australia’s biggest celebration of cheese, wine and artisan produce, returns to Rundle Park/Kadlitpina on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October 2026 for its 21st year. The milestone event brings a refreshed visual identity, a stellar lineup of culinary talent, and more than 100 producers from across the state and beyond.
For the first time, the festival will welcome celebrated chef and television personality Miguel Maestre, who takes centre stage on the RAA cooking demonstration stage on Saturday. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and deep love of quality ingredients, Maestre is a natural fit for an event built around connecting people with the makers behind their food.
“I’m so excited to be involved in this year’s CheeseFest,” Maestre said. “As a passionate foodie and lover of cheese, I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday in October. South Australia has some of the best produce in the country, and events like CheeseFest enable producers and makers to showcase their products and celebrate their achievements.”
Joining Maestre is MasterChef 2025 winner Laura Sharrad, the acclaimed South Australian chef and restaurateur returning to share her signature creativity and passion for local produce.
A bold new look from Billie Justice Thomson
To mark the occasion, CheeseFest has commissioned South Australian artist and illustrator Billie Justice Thomson to create a distinctive new body of artwork for the event. Known for her bold, playful and nostalgic depictions of food and everyday objects, Thomson’s work will feature across marketing, merchandise and the festival experience itself.
“Billie’s work is vibrant, joyful and instantly recognisable,” said CheeseFest founder and award-winning cheesemaker Kris Lloyd AM. “She has created something that captures the personality and spirit of CheeseFest, and we believe the artwork will become synonymous with the brand for many years to come.”
What to expect
The 2026 event features more than 100 cheese, food, wine, beer, spirit and beverage producers, bringing together established favourites and exciting new makers. Around 18,000 people are expected across the two days, with visitors travelling from metropolitan Adelaide, regional South Australia, interstate and overseas.
Festivalgoers can look forward to live cooking demonstrations, hands-on masterclasses, cheese and beverage experiences, live music, premium lounges and the chance to taste and purchase directly from producers.
“At its heart, CheeseFest has always been about giving producers the opportunity to put their products directly to consumers, share their stories and build lasting connections with customers,” Lloyd said. “Reaching our 21st birthday is an incredibly proud moment. What began as a simple idea to celebrate artisan cheese has grown into a major celebration of South Australian food, drink, creativity and regional tourism.”
Early bird tickets are now on sale at cheesefest.com.au, with further program announcements to follow in the coming months.
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