Portarlington Mussel Festival

Overview

Portarlington Mussel Festival has become one of the largest yearly events to take place in the tiny bayside community. Last year, over ten tonnes of locally harvested mussels were served to 30,000 seafood-loving punters.

For its 12th year, Australia's mussel capital will host over 100 food stalls, peddling not only shellfish but fresh local produce too. There'll be live music, art and photography exhibitions, cooking classes and demonstrations, a car show (possibly muscle cars?), kids' activities, and beer and wine tastings.

Special guests The Eagles Story will be among over 20 performers providing entertainment for the day, including Avalon, Jazz Connection, Chrissy Burrell, The Big Bash Band and Hip Cats. There'll be a $2 entry fee per person, with all proceeds returned to the community.

Established in 2007, the festival highlights the importance of the Bellarine's aquaculture industry — 60 percent of Australia's mussels come from Portarlington. Despite the town's remoteness, you can jump on a ferry from Melbourne or even better, do a coastal road trip.

Image: Archangel12 via Flickr.