Racing
SoundBites Food & Wine Festival Launches in Newcastle
Newcastle’s Top Chefs, Local Wineries and Hindley Street Country Club Unite for New SoundBites Festival - Saturday 28 March 2026

A brand-new food and wine festival is set to take over Newcastle Racecourse this March, with the inaugural SoundBites Food & Wine Festival bringing together some of Newcastle's top chefs, Hunter Valley wineries and live entertainment for a full day celebration of flavour and music.
Taking place on Saturday 28 March, the festival will open Newcastle Food Month,transforming the racecourse into Newcastle's biggest day of food, wine and music.
The culinary program will feature live cooking demonstrations from chefs representing some of the city's most recognised venues including The Prince,Crystalbrook Kingsley, QT Newcastle, Signal Box and Cakeboi, showcasing the creativity and talent of the local dining scene.
The program will also be headlined by renowned chef and television personality Miguel Maestre, who will host live cooking demonstrations and headline the premium Trackside Luncheon experience, celebrating the region's produce and wines.
Adding to the festival atmosphere is a performance from global music sensation Hindley Street Country Club. The Adelaide-based band has built an enormous international following through their high-energy live recordings of classic hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s. Known for their powerful vocals and world-class musicianship,their live performances regularly see crowds singing and dancing along to some of the greatest songs ever recorded.
Alongside the food and wine offering, festival-goers can explore more than 40 food and beverage vendors, featuring Hunter Valley wineries, craft brewers, distillers and artisan producers, along with fun festival experiences including grape stomping and roaming entertainment throughout the festival grounds.
Newcastle Racecourse CEO Duane Dowell said SoundBites will offer a completely new festival experience for the region.
"SoundBites is not a raceday, it's Newcastle's biggest celebration of food, wine and music. We're bringing together incredible local chefs
Hunter Valley producers and world-class entertainment to create a festival that showcases the very best of our region."
First release general admission tickets are available from just $65, offering exceptional value for a full-day festival experience. Tickets include a commemorative SoundBites tasting glass and tasting vouchers to sample wines and craft beverages from participating producers.
With limited first release tickets available, we encourage locals and visitors to secure their spot early for what is expected to become one of Newcastle's newest signature events. Visit the Newcastle Racecourse website or contact the team on 02 49611573 or events@nj
For more information visit: Newcastle Racecourse
