More than 50,000 people have flocked to Hobart’s Taste of Summer in its first four days, with New Year’s Eve celebrations drawing another 6,000 revellers to the waterfront festival.
General Manager Katharine Dean said the event attracted 10,000 visitors on opening night, followed by 14,000 on the second day, 12,000 on the third and 10,000 on the fourth.
The festival is on track to meet its target of 97,000 visitors across its six-day run, with 90 per cent of New Year’s Eve tickets selling out before the event.
Dean said the waterfront venue offered prime viewing for both the 9:30pm family fireworks and midnight display last night.
“We are absolutely in the perfect spot to be able to view both of those fireworks,” she said.
The event features over 75 stallholders showcasing Tasmanian produce, including new additions like Tasmanian Smokeyard and Season & Fire, the festival’s first full-service restaurant.
“There’s really something for everyone here,” Dean said.
Yesterday’s community day, offering free entry until 4pm thanks to the City of Hobart, proved popular with 2,500 people arriving within the first half hour.
“It’s got a lovely atmosphere,” Dean said.
Tourism Minister Jane Howlett says the festival provided major economic benefits for Tasmania’s hospitality and tourism sectors, with visitors travelling from interstate and overseas.
The Taste of Summer runs until 3 January at Princes Wharf 1 in Hobart.
