Obsessed with excellent epicurean experiences? Here's a reminder to open your 2026 calendar right now and block out March 20-29, because the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (MFWF) is due to return with a delicious, saucy splash. From street food parties and hotly anticipated pop-ups to long, outdoor luncheons and unforgettable fine dining events, this is an eating and drinking extravaganza you'll want to clear time (and stomach space!) for.
A smashing line-up for the beloved festival's 2026 program has just been announced, and with more than 200 events to choose from across the state, attendees will be spoilt for choice. But don't let overwhelm consume you; here's a round-up of highlights so you can start planning your best MFWF yet – whether it's your very first one or an unmissable annual fixture in your diary.
One of the MFWF's hottest hitters has always been the World's Longest Lunch, which will again be hosted in Kings Domain across more than 600 metres of table. The 2026 feast will be Greek-themed to celebrate the city's recent influx of incredible Greek dining offerings and historic diasporic connection, with culinary talent from popular restaurants Kafeneion and Tzaki, plus author Ella Mittas, set to collaborate on a fresh, flavour-packed feast.
Sweet treat devotees, listen up: Cake Picnic is coming. This international smash hit event began in San Francisco as a humble 15-person cake swap, but has since grown into an event that sells out tickets by the thousands in just minutes. The premise is simple: bring an amazing cake, eat everyone else's amazing cakes. Cake Picnic's presence at MFWF will mark the global event's first-ever Aussie appearance.
“I am so excited to bring Cake Picnic to Melbourne,” says founder Elisa Sunga. “I am looking forward to seeing what flavours and styles Australia’s bakers bring to the table. I've heard only great things about Melbourne's food scene, so my excitement is at a high!”
Those who get a buzz from all things baking should also earmark the annual favourite Bakers Dozen at Fed Square, plus this elevated three-course lunch with Helen Goh – certified cake genius, food columnist and recipe developer for Yotam Ottolenghi for more than a decade.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.