We both bring something completely different. We are very different people and cooks so it's really nice way to complement the festival and each other
- Steph De Sousa
MAITLAND's very own Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival is already shaping up to be one of the best yet - with the announcement of not one, but two celebrity hosts.
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Fresh from the Masterchef kitchen, season 11 contestant Steph De Sousa and season 10 contestant Reece Hignell will be leading the fun during the festivities next month.
On Saturday, Ms De Sousa will be taking over the flavour stage for demonstrations and said she was "excited" to be hosting the festival.
"I love the Aroma Festival because I am a mad coffee and chocolate person, so I am very excited to be hosting," she said.
"We both bring something completely different. We are very different people and cooks so it's really nice way to complement the festival and each other."
While on Sunday, Mr Hignell will be showing off his mirror glazed mousse with a nut praline.
"They have a lot of simple but cool techniques," he said. "I've been coming to the Aroma Festival since I was 17-years-old. I've always loved it. Obviously as a cake/dessert person, this is right up my alley.
"We love the Hunter, especially Maitland. It's great to bring the Masterchef brand to our home."
Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival will return next month on August 10 and 11, bringing a delicious variety from more than 80 stall holders at the Riverside car park.
Maitland City Council events officer Beth Anastasiou said the festival was gearing up to be 'bigger and better' than ever.
"We are going to have four music areas instead of the one. We will have DJs as well as solo, duo and trio acts," she said.
"There will be a number of activities including coffee art painting and coaster making for the kids.
"This year will have a lot more to offer than previous years."
As part of this year's festivities, the festival will also have its first pop-up cocktail bar with a collaboration between tiki bar RAMA and renowned coffee liqueur distillery Mr Black.
For more information about the chocolate and coffee festival, visit maitlandaroma.com.au.