About 30 stalls have already been registered for the Oamaru Wine and Food Festival in February and organisers expect the maximum number of 40 to be reached.
A new committee has taken over organising what is one of Oamaru's biggest annual events, and is taking it back to its origins, with a local emphasis.
That is reflected in the line-up which will provide entertainment. Most are local entertainers confirmed in slots from 11am to 5pm, the exception being Barry Saunders from Wellington, lead singer of the Warratahs.
Committee chairman Mark Julius said yesterday there were only 10 stall spaces left and organisers were looking for an emphasis on food to fill those to balance the wine, boutique beer and other drink stalls already registered.
The festival, held for the past 13 years, has reverted to a simpler format with expanded food and wine demonstrations. Wine glasses would return, with a plastic option available. Single-bottle wine sales would also be allowed.
Ticket prices had also been reduced significantly. Presales for adults would be $15, which included a wine glass, and $20 for gate sales. Tickets will be limited to 2000 and go on sale from the end of next week.
