A stilt walkers towers over the buzzing crowd at the 2018 Main Street Mornington Festival. Photo: Steve Brown
Having supported the Main Street Mornington Festival since its inception, Mornington Peninsula Magazine couldn’t celebrate its 150th issue without a chat with festival director Christina Nolan. Mornington Peninsula Magazine publisher Lisa Walton was an avid committee member back 18 years ago, and over the event’s 25-year history we’ve watched as it has gone from strength to strength.
From its inception as a project between Northern Mornington Peninsula Tourism and the Mornington Chamber of Commerce, and now with NMPT solely as the organiser, it’s an event that has always been a highlight on the calendar for locals and visitors alike. From a mere 25 stalls at the first festival to an event requiring half of Main St to be closed to vehicle access, it’s a testament to the team’s tireless work. Now you’ll find food, beverage, craft and community stalls lining the streets, multiple stages around every corner, roving entertainers and activities for all. It’s a drawcard on the Peninsula that was sorely missed during the COVID-19 lockdown period and a community event that proudly represents the variety of exceptional businesses and talent across the Mornington Peninsula.
Its huge growth is thanks to the hard work of the organisers, community support, visitors and locals attending year after year, and of course the businesses and artists that get involved at every event. Alcohol stalls used to feature mainly wineries; now you’ll discover a wide range of distilleries and boutique breweries. There’s something for every taste that reflects the dynamic and award-winning beverage industry of the Peninsula.
With more stages gradually added over the years to an impressive six now, the diversity of musicians and performers has developed. With an increased ability to appeal to more music tastes, popularity has increased, and you’ll find that each stage has an engaged audience, with many dancing to the live music in the street. Community participation and support have always been excellent, with the Sea Scouts, local schools, Peninsula Folk Club and more always being actively involved in the event.
“A highlight over the years would have to be having the likes of Gotye and Tones And I perform,” Christina said. “We were always excited to have local artists and well-known bands added to our line-up over the years. We often had groups or individuals perform, and we’d then watch them increase in popularity, but they’d always be happy to come back and perform at our festival.”
The hordes of people who attend this sensational event year after year are superb, and you can only fully comprehend the sheer numbers in attendance through aerial shots by local photographer Steve Brown. Brightly coloured costumes make the stilt walkers pop as they tower above the crowd and enthral young and old. It’s a day full of fun for all.
Keep an eye on the festival’s Facebook page @MainStreetMorningtonFestival and the mainstreetfestival.com.au website for updates.
Recent Comments