Ku-ring-gai Cravings: A New Evening Festival for Local Businesses

Council is planning a new evening festival and is accepting expressions of interest from local businesses to get involved. Ku-ring-gai Cravings will celebrate the restaurants, bars, cafes and venues that make our area special. The evening festival will run from Friday 7 August to Sunday 30 August across Ku-ring-gai. Food and beverage businesses operating within Ku-ring-gai are invited to express their interest in hosting and delivering bookable events as part of the festival program. Events could include: Special dinners showcasing local produce Themed menus celebrating specific cultures or culinary traditions Mult-course tasting menus told as a story from the kitchen Cocktail masterclasses held at a local bar Communal table or chef’s table experiences Eligible businesses could receive a $500 promotional grant, a dedicated listing on the Ku-ring-gai Cravings website, inclusion in Council’s marketing campaign, ready to use promotional assets, editorial profile of their business and ongoing support from Council’s events team. There are up to 20 grants available, which participating businesses can spend on paid social media advertising, photography or video content, printed materials or menus, email marketing or other promotional activities approved by Council. Ku-ring-gai Mayor Christine Kay said the festival was just one of the many ways Council is working to build the local night-time economy. “With Ku-ring-gai’s population set to grow significantly over the next 15 years, it’s important that we continue creating vibrant and welcoming places where people of all ages can connect, relax and enjoy themselves,” Mayor Kay said. “Our night-time economy action plan is all about bringing more life to our town centres and creating new opportunities for dining, entertainment and social experiences across Ku-ring-gai. “As our community grows, so too does the demand for more places to eat, meet and spend time with family and friends. “We want to support local businesses by making it easier to establish restaurants, bars and other venues, while ensuring any regulations are practical, streamlined and fit for purpose.” The pilot supports the Ku-ring-gai Night-time Economy Action Plan and aligns with the Destination NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2025. Interested businesses must complete their expression of interest form by Sunday 28 June. More information. Media enquiries: media@krg.nsw.gov.au or 9424 0000.