There are few ingredients that inspire more passion and adoration than the humble spud. From gnocchi to gratin, rosti to roasties, French fries to potato pies, not to mention vodka, there’s truly nothing potatoes can’t do. 

Given their popularity, then, there’s surprisingly few opportunities to celebrate the versatile veg. Until now, that is. 

If you’re starch raving mad for potatoes, then we have some news you may find a-peeling: There’s an entire festival devoted to potatoes coming to the NSW Southern Highlands next month. 

Related story: Why you shouldn’t book a hotel room above the 4th floor, and other surprising travel advice

The potato growing town of Robertson – home to the Big Potato – will hold the first-ever Robertson Potato Festival at the Robertson Showgrounds between April 30th and May 1st. 

Potato lovers and spec-taters alike will have plenty of opportunities to celebrate and learn more about their favourite carb. 

Related story: The secret meanings behind the letters and numbers on your boarding pass

The festival has a spud-tacular schedule of events, including cooking demonstrations from local and celebrity chefs, live entertainment, vendors serving up delicious potato-centric dishes from around the world, and even a ‘Hessians on the Field’ parade.

There’s plenty of activities, including a potato peeling contest, potato sack races, and a mash eating competition (umm, where do we sign up?)

What: Robertson Potato Festival

When: April 30–May 1 2022 

Where: Robertson Showgrounds 2315 Kangaloon Rd Robertson NSW

For info and tickets: https://potatofestival.com.au/

Related story: This boutique hotel is a slice of the Cotswolds in the Southern Highlands