The inaugural Island Escape Festival is set to transform Launceston’s Inveresk Precinct into a vibrant winter celebration of food, drink, music and culture this weekend.
Liberal Member for Bass, Rob Fairs, said the festival was an exciting addition to Tasmania’s off-season events calendar.
“Island Escape Festival celebrates our outstanding food and beverage producers, creative industries and the unique character of our cool-climate lifestyle,” Mr Fairs said.
“The festival’s theme, Cool Climate – Warm Welcome, perfectly captures the Tasmanian experience.
“We know events like Island Escape Festival help attract visitors during the off-season, support local businesses and create opportunities for our hospitality, tourism and events sectors to thrive.”
The Tasmanian Government is supporting delivery of the inaugural event with a $350,000 investment.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, our Government is investing in events that drive visitation, strengthen our economy and support the one in six Tasmanians employed in the tourism and hospitality sector,” Mr Fairs said.
The festival will feature more than 50 Tasmanian food and beverage producers, curated masterclasses, chef presentations, tastings, ice sculpting, a silent disco and family-friendly activities, as well as performances from Spiderbait, Birds of Tokyo, Hot Dub Time Machine and The Beautiful Girls.
Island Escape Festival runs from 3 to 5 July 2026 at Launceston’s Inveresk Precinct.
To view the Island Escape Festival program and purchase tickets, visit www.islandescapefestival.com.au
