Vendors and entertainers sought for mammoth November street party in Margaret River for Pair’d festival

Pair’d festival organisers and the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River are calling for vendors and performers to get involved in the planned street festival to be held later this year during the successor to the Gourmet Escape.

As revealed previously by the Times, the main street of Margaret River will be taken over by a street party during the Pair’d Margaret River food and music festival on Sunday, November 17.

But as the date fast approaches, organisers were now offering main street operators, community groups and performers the chance to take part.

While the festival itself runs for four days across the region, with a feast of activities and gourmet events running, the street party replaces the free tickets handed out to residents for the Gourmet Escape village and was a way to give back to locals, according to organisers.

Ahoy Management spokeswoman Erin Molloy welcomed the chance to work with the shire for the community-led celebration that was less than two months away.

Working with other event partners Mellen Events and Sydney’s We Are Gather — the agency started by former Escape co-ordinator Hannah Pike — Ahoy had sought to “create an event that truly belongs to the community”.

“We look forward to the energy the town always brings to the celebrations,” Ms Molloy said.

“As a closing celebration of the largest wine and food festival of the year, Pair’d, and a tribute to our local community and businesses in the lead-up to peak season, we’re excited to see the main street come alive again and hope to involve as much of the community as possible.

“We’re looking for expressions of interest from main street businesses, entertainers, musicians, performers and community groups who want to take part in the celebrations and show the spirit of Margaret River.

“The last street party was one for the books and we look forward to the town getting behind it whether participating, performing or attending to create some unforgettable memories.”

The festival also had the backing of the shire which would also have a hand in the celebration.

Sustainable economy and communities director Nick Byrne said the aim of the party was to recapture some of the magic much talked about when a street party was held back in 2021, celebrating completion of the main street upgrade.

“It’s the perfect way to bring us all together and say thank you to everyone — from hospitality workers to tour operators and our patient residents — who welcome visitors throughout the busy summer season,” he said.

Activation of the main street was a key pillar in talks among the business community when the highway was redeveloped in 2020-21.

Businesses were encouraged to embrace the opportunity and get in on the festival action.

To pitch projects or inquire further, contact hello@ahoymanagement.com.