Cyprus Haloumi Festival

Overview

Few kinds of cheese cop quite as much love as the salty Cypriot favourite, haloumi. I mean, here in Melbourne, the brunch classic has even scored its own dedicated festival, which returns for its second edition this Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27.

Taking over the Brunswick East HQ of the Cyprus Community of Melbourne & Victoria, it's set to be a flavour-packed affair, celebrating both a much-loved cheese and the culture and traditions of its homeland.

You'll have the chance to sample an array of top-quality haloumi, as well as picking up some tips and inspiration at an haloumi making demonstration. And once your appetite has been sufficiently piqued, you can explore the diverse lineup of food stalls serving up authentic Cypriot fare and haloumi-infused treats – from savoury bourekia pastries, to haloumi fries, to haloumi 'koupes', or cracked wheat pies. The Keo beer will be flowing and, of course, there'll be plenty of loukoumades for dessert.

Meanwhile, the day's entertainment leans to the traditional, with a program of classic Greek and Cypriot dancing, live music and more. And what better way to work off all that cheese than kicking up your heels in a syrtaki or rembetika group dance session?