27 September 2024

By Hannah Wilcox

It’s that time of year again! The sun is out, the days are getting longer and the streets are buzzing – that’s right, it’s the Crows Nest Fest. 

On October 20, Crows Nest Mainstreet and surrounds will be transformed into a hub of food, fun and goodies for the whole family between 10am to 5pm. 

This year’s theme is ‘Connection, Culture and Creativity’ with an expected crowd of 40,000 to turn up and enjoy the festivities.

“We are beyond excited to welcome everyone back to Crows Nest Fest 2024,” JoEllen Henderson said.

“This year, we’re showcasing the true essence of Crows Nest—its creativity, its culture, and most importantly, its incredible community spirit.”

“With new attractions, live entertainment, and the most exciting food and artisan market to date, this year’s fest is going to be spectacular!”

Over 200 market vendors will be selling items such as handmade artisan goods, from soaps to resin jewellery, fashion and ceramics.

Keen for a bite? Visitors are spoiled for choice with Gourmet Food Avenue on Burlington Avenue sporting fresh oysters, Japanese Aburi Grill, Greek specialties, Spanish paella, grazing places and a gourmet BBQ amongst many other cuisines.

Those looking for something a bit smaller can wander down to Clarke Street’s Food Truck Alley with street eats like souvlaki, satay, gourmet burgers, and desserts including cannoli, gelato, honey-drenched Greek donuts.

Crows Nest Festival 2024 – Hero Photo Shoot at Ernest Place, Crows Nest – Wednesday 21st August, 2024
Photographer: Belinda Rolland © 2024For refreshments, choose between Sip + Savour – offering a curated selection of NSW’s finest wines and local spirits paired with decadent cheese, charcuterie, and gourmet condiments – and  North’s Collective Cantina Pop-Up Bar, promising an afternoon of indulgence with tequila-infused margaritas and tacos.

The John Griffin Memorial Stage in Ernest Place will be home to a variety of musical performances by Big Music, as well as the Canine Capers Dog Competition which will see 20 local pups and their owners go up for prizes such as Best Biscuit Catcher and People’s Choice Award.

Local school and community groups will keep the good vibes going on the Dance and Music Stage on Hume Street.

Another highlight of the day, and new addition to the festival, is the Art Battle. Local artists are set to go head to head in live art showdowns throughout the day, with the winner picked by the audience. 

Looking to be more sustainable? Drop into Northside Baptist Church’s Compost Revolution stall, which will be offering half-price worm farms and compost bins as well as workshops on composting, worm farming and small space gardening by special guest Laurie Green from Grow Gather Graze.

And of course, for the little ones: the Kids Zone will be packed with free fun activities including pony rides, a petting zoo, and the Circus Playground.