Massive street party for Pair’d Margaret River shapes up for November 17

The final checks are under way before one of the biggest main street parties yet.

Traffic will stop in Margaret River’s town centre on November 17 as two separate stages, pop-up restaurants and a visit from the local farmer’s market take over the main street to celebrate the end of the Pair’d festival.

The successor to the Gourmet Escape runs across four days and finishes up with a thanks to the region, which will see separate stages at Reuther Park and the Fearn Avenue precinct, along with a host of activities echoing celebrations from the past.

Even tarp surfing — a mainstay of vintage celebrations in years gone by — will return to the town centre from 3pm as residents are invited to take over their town for the occasion.

Shire of Augusta-Margaret River president Julia Meldrum said the party was also a celebration of the region itself.

“We have so many fabulous local businesses, amazing local produce, and a community spirit that is definitely worth celebrating,” she said.

“After receiving consistent feedback asking for another street party, we decided to collaborate this year with the Pair’d team to deliver a fun-filled community-focused event.

“I’m sure it will provide a pre-summer boost before our busiest time of year.”

The Reuther Park stage will feature acts including The Whitlams’ Tim Freedman and ARIA award-winning DJ Grant Smillie, alongside Margaret River’s own Sasha Seabourne Band and Nannup’s Lightnin’ Jack Duo.

Meanwhile, the festival precinct stage will see local performers such as Olive Mae, Diego de Camino, Luke Vecchio and DJ and percussion duo LaLaLee fill the afternoon with live performances at the family-friendly event.

Other entertainment on the day will include face painting, food and drink vans, a visit from the Freedom Fairies, and an outdoor service area at Settlers Tavern, with live music from ska proponents Little Pedro from 3pm.

Among the children’s activities, interactive artist Lauren Pearse from Salty Sketches will host several massive chalkboards on the day, catering to the younger festival crowd.

With food a key component of the Pair’d festival, local eateries such as Morries, Margaret River Tuck Shop, Pearls, Rhum Burgundy and Elliott’s Steakhouse will spill out on to the street during the festival and showcase special menus.

Regional produce will also help the main street come alive, with the farmer’s market operating as a pop-up in the town square along with the best of the region’s mobile food vendors.

Residents are encouraged to walk, ride, or park nearby and do their shopping in town before the festival as another way to support local businesses before an official welcome to country from custodian Zac Webb at 3pm.

The night is expected to wrap up around 7pm.