If you’re a fan of great food, lively culture, and the stunning vibes of Byron Bay, then mark your calendars for the Caper Byron Bay Food & Culture Festival, returning from the 17th to the 26th of May, 2024. This year, the festival is joining forces with the beloved local hotspot, North Byron Hotel, as its presenting partner. Get ready for ten days of culinary delight, artistic expression, and community celebration.
The collaboration between Caper Byron Bay and North Byron Hotel promises an extraordinary fusion of gastronomy, arts, and wellness, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Northern Rivers. With a lineup curated by the renowned chef Louis Tikaram, this year’s festival aims to honour the rich tapestry of produce, cuisine, and counterculture that defines the region.
As the Official Watering Hole for the festival, North Byron Hotel is set to be the heart of the action. Whether you’re looking to kick off the festivities or unwind after a day of exploration, or a place to sit eat and relax the hotel offers the perfect setting. Expect a plethora of activities, from live music performances to cooking demonstrations and even kids’ pony rides with Zephyr Horses. Plus, all Caper Festival ticket holders will receive a complimentary drink coupon with every purchase, adding an extra touch of hospitality to the experience.
Jedd Rifai, licensee of the Hotel, expresses the venue’s excitement about being part of the festival: “Caper Byron Bay Food & Culture Festival is focused on celebrating the vibrant food culture of Byron Bay, we are proud to be a part of it. We have a lot of fun activities lined up and look forward to welcoming festival-goers as they join our community gatherings.”
Louis Tikaram, the festival’s food curator, brings a wealth of culinary expertise and a deep connection to the region. Hailing from the Northern Rivers himself, Tikaram’s journey from a farm in Mullumbimby to acclaimed kitchens around the world has imbued him with a profound understanding of local ingredients and flavors. Now, at Stanley restaurant in Brisbane, Tikaram continues to showcase his passion for innovative cuisine rooted in tradition.
“The first-ever Caper Festival was a blast as a guest chef back in 2022, and now I’m stoked to come back home to Byron Shire and curate. With heaps of mates in the chef and supplier scene and top-notch produce at our fingertips, we’ve got some cracking events lined up. Can’t wait to get stuck in and show off what we’ve got cooking!” – Chef Louis Tikaram
The festival boasts a diverse array of events, including the Taste the Cape official opening party, Chefs Night Out, and the Brunswick Picture House Dinner and Show. However, one of the highlights is the We Like to Tiki official closing party at North Byron Hotel. Here, guests can indulge in Pacific snacks cooked over an open fire, paired with refreshing drinks, while enjoying live music and DJs late into the night.
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the festival experience, Elements of Byron, the luxury beachside resort, is offering 15% off the best available rate across the festival dates with the discount code CAPER. With its proximity to the festival and convenient transportation options, getting around the has never been easier.
Caper Byron Bay Food & Culture Festival is the brainchild of founder Alex Taylor and event organiser Abbie Gibson. Together, they have crafted an event that celebrates Byron Bay’s vibrant community, its culinary delights, and its deep connection to the surrounding environment. From morning through night, the festival promises a journey through Byron Shire’s food, drink, music, wellness, art, and entertainment, uniting locals and visitors alike in a shared appreciation for this unique region.
The North Byron Hotel, formerly known as the Sun Bistro, Licensee Jedd Rifai’s vision was to create a community space that felt like home. Today, the hotel embodies this vision, offering contemporary coastal interiors, a laid-back atmosphere, and a menu that showcases the best of Northern Rivers produce. With its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, North Byron Hotel is more than just a pub—it’s a destination where good food, good vibes, and good times come together.
Caper Byron Bay Food & Culture Festival promises an unforgettable experience for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the magic of Byron Bay. With its diverse lineup of events, emphasis on local talent and produce, and commitment to community celebration, this year’s festival is set to be the best one yet. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this culinary adventure—book your tickets now and get ready to taste the essence of Byron Bay!
