More than 100,000 people are expected to pack the Hobart waterfront when Taste of Summer returns this summer, an event the state government says pumps around $17.5 million into Tasmania’s visitor economy.
Organisers announced at a press conference on the waterfront that The Potbelleez and Furnace & The Fundamentals will headline the festival’s New Year’s Eve celebration.
The Potbelleez, known for ARIA award-winning hit Don’t Hold Back, will be joined by singer Muma Megs on the main stage.
Family fireworks follow at 9.30pm before Furnace & The Fundamentals take over.
Local DJ Track & Field will count the crowd down to midnight and a second fireworks display.
The festival runs from December 27 to January 3, with more than 85 food and drink vendors and over 120 live music acts across eight days.
This year’s party carries a Space Cowboy theme, with gates opening at 6pm.
“Taste is such an important part of summer in Hobart and more broadly, Tasmania,” Taste of Summer general manager Katharine Dean said.
She said just under 100,000 people came through the gates last year.
“So really hoping to crack that 100,000 this year,” Dean said.
Track & Field, whose real name is Karoline Kent, said she was returning after playing the same slot last year.
“I was absolutely blown away with the response,” Kent said.
“So this year I’m looking to bring the same energy, but maybe elevate it another notch.”
She promised uptempo remixes of classic songs and said Dolly Parton would get a mention.
Business, Industry and Resources Minister Felix Ellis said around 30% of tickets were bought by people from outside Tasmania.
“Tasmania is the best place in Australia to spend summer and during the Taste of Summer, this is the premier festival,” Ellis said.
Live music runs daily from midday until 10pm and is included with general entry.
Two headline acts are still to be announced, with the full program due in October.
Pre-sale and New Year’s Eve tickets go on sale from September 22, with public sales opening September 24.
