Popular Christies Beach festival to return in February

This free beach festival was such a hit last year – and now it’s returning. Here’s everything you need to know, and every market stall coming.

Ayesha O’Neill from Rito's Cafe & Continental preparing for the Beachside Food & Wine festival on February 10 2024 – Picture: Brett Hartwig

One of South Australia’s most-loved beachside festivals is returning to Christies Beach in just over a week – and it’s free.

Rotary Park is expected to host more than 4000 eager festival-goers on February 10 for the Beachside Food and Wine Festival.

From 4-9pm, the park will be filled with food and drink stalls, live music, cooking demos, and market stalls showcasing local produce and art.

Ayesha O’Neill, the owner of Rito’s Cafe & Continental, says it’s a dream come true for her to have her own stall at the festival she’s been attending for “ages”.

“We’ve never done anything like this before,” she said. “For sure, it’s a dream.”

Ayesha O’Neill from Rito's Cafe & Continental preparing for the Beachside Food & Wine festival on February 10 2024 – Picture: Brett Hartwig

Ms O’Neill, 32, acknowledged the loving and supportive Christies Beach community.

“Christies as a community is so good because everyone supports local,” she said.

“I’m really thankful to be able to do it as well. It’ll be really good to get down there with other local businesses and see what they’re up to and to get together as a community.

“Sometimes as a small-business owner it can be tough, but when you have things like this it’s comforting knowing everyone’s there to support each other.”

The Rito’s stall will be selling gourmet cheese platters with a “whole range” of different cheeses on offer.

“I’ll be there and I’ll have a few staff members with me as well,” Ms O’Neill said.

Nikki Palmer, Onkaparinga Council’s event officer, says she was excited for Saturday’s sunset festival.

The Beachside Food and Wine Festival will return to Christies Beach on Saturday 10 February. Picture: Onkaparinga Now

“Every year we’re thrilled to use this festival to showcase a wonderful array of local business,” Ms Palmer said.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for everyone to enjoy great food, music, and company in a beautiful beachside setting.”

Mayor Moira Were said the “much-loved” festival would attract people from all over the state.

“Beachside Food and Wine Festival is one of the City of Onkaparinga’s five annual major events … (and) will again attract thousands of visitors from across the region and further afield,” Ms Were said.

“The free event offers the perfect opportunity to sample gourmet eats, local wine, craft beer, and spirits while the sun sets at one of South Australia’s most beautiful beaches.”

Actor Chris Asimos will MC the event with live music from Sophie Ford, Tommy Tequila, and the Mr Buzzy band throughout the night.

Road closures and parking and speed restrictions will be in place around Rotary Park and surrounding areas between 11am-11pm on February 10.