Australia’s biggest and longest-running cheese festival is back, and it’s celebrating its 20-year milestone in style. CheeseFest 2025 returns to Rundle Park / Kadlitpina this month, bringing together the best artisan cheesemakers, food producers, winemakers, brewers and distillers from across the country for a full-blown cheesy celebration.
“When we started 20 years ago, it was really just about celebrating local cheesemakers,” shares Event Organiser Kris Lloyd.
“Now it’s grown into a national festival that showcases the best of South Australian and Australian produce — it’s where Australia comes to meet its makers. It’s been successful because it offers connection. People love meeting the makers and knowing where their food comes from.”
Cheese lovers, this year’s lineup is sure to savour the senses.
Expect over 80 stalls packed with creamy bries, sharp cheddars, tangy blues and melt-in-your-mouth local specialties from names like Woodside Cheese Wrights (recently crowned Best Australian Cheese), Paris Creek Farms, Long Paddock and The Yoghurt Shop, alongside the sizzling Nova Halloumi Bar, serving up golden, squeaky perfection all weekend.
“We’ve got an incredible line-up this year – from South Australian favourites to brilliant interstate makers, one of my favourites being Milawa Cheese, who make a fabulous blue!,” shares Kris.
“Our Aussie cheesemakers punch way above their weight, and being able to give them this platform to show how incredible their cheeses are is at the very core of what CheeseFest was intended to do.”
But perhaps the most exciting addition to the program – drum roll, please – is the all-new White Marquee Brie I.P Lounge, your business-class ticket to CheeseFest.
This indulgent, cabana-style retreat offers shaded comfort, front-row views of the live music stage, and curated dining by Callum Hann and Themis Chryssidis of Sprout ADL. Guests are greeted with Pol Roger Champagne on arrival and a board of expertly selected local cheeses, followed by three seasonal shared plates and a surprise mystery cheese course. Relax in lounge-style seating, skip the queue with exclusive bar access, and enjoy a take-home Riedel wine glass.
“It’s our 20th birthday, so we wanted to create something a little indulgent,” Kris says.
“The White Marquee Brie.I.P Lounge is for anyone who wants to elevate their CheeseFest experience. It’s the perfect treat for serious foodies or those who just like a touch of VIP comfort.”
Of course, CheeseFest is more than just cheese (though there’s plenty of that). Festival-goers will find a broad range of gourmet bites, from mac and cheese and wood-fired pizza to sweet treats and local picnic fare.
We all know cheese tastes even better with a drink in hand, and behind the pours are all the local favourites. Prohibition Liquor Co., Never Never Distilling (with oysters and martinis), 23rd Street, Bowden Brewing, Sidewood, Threefold and Ambra, among many more. There’s also a strong non-alc offering for those taking it easy.
The RAA Cooking Demo Stage will once again serve up entertainment, led by everyone’s favourite cravat lover, Matt Preston. Joining him are culinary stars Laura Sharrad (Fugazzi), Callum Hann, Themis Chryssidis and Matt Stone, bringing a mix of live cooking, masterclasses and unfiltered foodie fun to the stage.
But wait, there’s more. Wine lovers can join free tasting sessions with the National Wine Centre, featuring Indigenous-owned Munda Wines, exploring the deep connection between culture and Country through native-inspired pairings. For those keen to get in on the cheesy action, Vanella Cheese will host live mozzarella and burrata-making sessions, while CheeseLinks returns with home cheesemaking kits so you can take the magic home.
As for what Kris is most looking forward to this year?
“Honestly, it’s seeing people’s faces when they take that first bite – there’s a real sense of discovery and delight,” she says.
“I also love walking through the park and hearing the laughter, the clinking glasses, the music – it’s the best kind of chaos! And this year being our 20th, it’s going to feel extra special. I’ve always said it’s my Big Cheese Party I throw every year.”
With live bands, picnic zones and sunshine on the forecast, Rundle Park is set to once again transform into a festive playground of wine, cheese and good company. CheeseFest is a reminder of just how spoiled we are when it comes to local food and wine. And with the new Brie I.P addition, this year’s milestone festival promises a touch of irresistible indulgence to match its legacy – and that’s on top of the cheese.
“We have the best producers, the best ingredients and a real sense of collaboration. Consumers need to get behind local and support the incredible work being done — not only by the producers who attend CheeseFest but all local producers,” shares Kris.
“CheeseFest celebrates that spirit. It’s local, it’s proud, and it’s generous. We’re so lucky to live in a place where we can eat, drink and celebrate the very best right in our own backyard.”
What: CheeseFest 2025
When: Saturday October 18, 11am–8pm, & Sunday October 19, 11am-6pm
Where: Rundle Park / Kadlitpina, Adelaide
Tickets: From $26.74, includes souvenir wine glass, tote bag, access to free tastings, cooking demos, and almost 100 producers
For more info and to purchase tickets, click here.
Brie I.P Lounge: Only 64 seats are available per session, with bookings for tables of two, four or eight. More info here.
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