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The GourMay Mary Valley Food Festival 2025 is a must-do for anyone who values fresh, local food and genuine community experiences.
Held throughout May, this region-wide celebration showcases the flavours, producers and culture of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Set just 45 minutes from Noosa and two hours from Brisbane, the Mary Valleyโs farms, towns and forests come alive with tastings, workshops, feasts, and family-friendly events.
Whether youโve recently moved to the area or youโre just planning a Sunshine Coast weekend escape, GourMay is the perfect way to experience the regionโs food culture firsthand.
Event Details for GourMay Mary Valley Food Festival 2025
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Location: Mary Valley Country โ including Imbil, Kandanga, Amamoor, Dagun and surrounds
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Dates: 1 โ 31 May 2025
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Festival Day: Saturday, 10 May 2025
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Main Venue: Imbil Town Square & Rail Park, 9:00 am โ 3:00 pm
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Gala Celebration: Saturday, 31 May 2025 at Kandanga Country Club
Hosted by the Mary Valley Chamber of Commerce, the festival brings together local growers, food producers, artists, and businesses to celebrate the unique flavours and culture of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Expect a full month of tastings, tours, long-table dinners, and immersive regional experiences.
Why the Mary Valley is a Must-Visit Food Destination in Queensland
Once known for pineapples and dairy, the Mary Valley is now home to a wide variety of producers.
Its fertile soils and diverse microclimates support everything from macadamias and avocados to wine grapes, bushfoods, goat cheese and edible bamboo.
The regionโs focus on sustainable farming and direct-to-consumer practices means visitors get to enjoy food that’s seasonal, fresh, and deeply local.
What to Expect on GourMay Festival Day โ Saturday 10 May in Imbil
Imbilโs Town Square and Rail Park will be the hub of activity for the main festival day. The event runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and features:
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Fresh produce stalls and gourmet food vendors
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Live cooking demonstrations and tastings
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Kidsโ activities and live local music
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Bush tucker and damper-making workshops
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Opportunities to meet growers and food makers
Itโs a great option for families, day trippers, and locals wanting a full day of food and community in one place.
GourMay Mary Valley Gala Celebration โ Closing Night at Kandanga Country Club
The festival wraps up on Saturday, 31 May, with the Gala Celebration at Kandanga Country Club.
This ticketed evening event includes a locally sourced multi-course dinner, live music from Tennessee Lights, and entertainment from Tommy Magic.
Bookings are essential, and transport options are available for those staying locally.
Explore the Month-Long GourMay Program Across Mary Valley Towns
In addition to the main events, GourMayโs calendar is packed with unique food-focused experiences throughout the month, including:
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Cheese-making and sourdough workshops
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Fermentation and preserving classes
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Long-table lunches at farms and wineries
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Outdoor bushfood experiences with Indigenous guides
The festival encourages visitors to explore different towns and connect with a broad range of local producers.
View the full program of events here: gourmaymaryvalley.com.au/2025-events.html
Who Should Attend GourMay Mary Valley โ Ideal Visitors and Local Food Lovers
GourMay is perfect for:
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Sunshine Coast locals looking to explore the hinterland
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Families wanting fun, educational experiences
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Food lovers keen to discover regional produce
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Couples planning a weekend in the country
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Visitors interested in sustainable and seasonal eating
Events range from casual and family-friendly to intimate and gourmet, making it accessible to all.
How to Get to the Mary Valley โ Travel Tips for Visiting GourMay Festival
Most events are easiest reached by car. Approximate drive times:
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Noosa to Imbil: 45 minutes
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Maroochydore to Imbil: 1 hour
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Brisbane to Imbil: 2 hours
Thereโs free parking in Imbil, and several ticketed events include optional bus transfers. If youโre attending multiple events over several days, a weekend stay is recommended.
Things to Do Near the Mary Valley Festival โ Attractions, Markets and Nature Trails
Round out your trip with a few nearby highlights:
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Ride the Mary Valley Rattler, a scenic steam train from Gympie to Amamoor (operates Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun)
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Visit Amamoor State Forest for walking trails like the Amama Walk (1.5 km) or Platypus Walk (300 m)
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Browse the Dagun Growers Market on Saturday afternoons and Imbil Country Markets every Sunday
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Book a farm stay or glamping weekend for a complete hinterland escape
Why GourMay Mary Valley Belongs on Your Sunshine Coast Festival Bucket List
With its mix of hands-on workshops, community events, and gourmet food experiences, GourMay Mary Valley offers something you wonโt find at big city food festivals.
Itโs authentic, accessible, and a brilliant way to experience the best of the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
For more details, visit:
gourmaymaryvalley.com.au/
Want more local events, guides, and insights?
Visit our blog: movingtothesunshinecoast.com.au/our-blog