Zorbs, unicorns, gramophones: Taste dishes up something for everyone

From wacky and wild rainbow hairstyles to colourful circus street performers, the Taste of Tasmania is full of activities and entertainment for all of the family to enjoy.

Cousins Isla Wallis, 5, of Ballarat, and Sage Wallis, 4, of Margate, with Mykey from Unicorn Manes. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

FROM wacky and wild rainbow hairstyles to colourful circus street performers, the Taste of Tasmania is full of activities and entertainment for all of the family to enjoy.

Children can take part in Bollywood dance classes, roll around in giant zorb balls or witness the fitness of the hottest hula hoopers in Hobart.

Festival director Brooke Webb said 45,700 people flooded down the rainbow carpet on Friday, up 9000 on the same day last year.

WATCH: THE MERCURY’S PANEL DISCUSSION AT TASTE

“I think people are captured by the colour and we will continue to see bigger numbers through the gates,” she said.

“The entertainment program is also kicking major goals.

“We picked up Kids in the Park and turned it into the Kids’ and Family Program, which takes place throughout the entire site.”

There was a big line of children and kids at heart standing outside Unicorn Manes by Mykey today, which will be providing free haircuts and rainbow hairstyles throughout the festival.

Taste performer Gramophone Man. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

“I’ve never been to Hobart or Tasmania before and I love it. There’s been a really good community vibe at the festival.” Mykey told the Sunday Tasmanian.

“I’m here to paint unicorn manes in people’s hair and make them feel happy.”

One of the stunning acts on this year’s lineup is Gramophone Man, who uses portable wind-up gramophone players to deliver the sound of 78rpm records from the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s.

“It’s my first time at Taste and it’s been amazing,” Gramophone Man said.

“The people have been very friendly, very positive and are enjoying the old-fashioned vibes.”

Claire Waters, of Hobart, from stall Orlando Plenty, with a fritter plate and iced tea. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Well-known American author and television personality Martha Stewart turned a few heads on opening night after stopping by the festival to try some of Tasmania’s food and beverages.

Taste culinary kitchen guest chef and Wild Adventure Cookbook author Sarah Glover, who grew up in Lauderdale, was lucky enough to spend some time with the successful businesswoman, yesterday sharing a few pictures on Instagram.

Taste performer Gramophone Man. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

“When the queen comes to Tasmania, we light a fire and celebrate what our beautiful island has to provide — thank you Martha Stewart for being a woman who has paved the way,” she wrote.

Nick Haddow of Bruny Island Cheese Co, also shared a beer with the international superstar at Taste.

“She knows where the good stuff is! #Tasmania,” he said on social media.

Tickets to Taste’s New Year’s Eve Speakeasy Ball remain available.

For more information visit: www.thetasteoftasmania.com.au