A year after its 2020 event was a cancelled at the very last minute amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the Maitland 'deconstructed' Taste Festival brought a welcome flurry of activity into the city.

But you might have noticed it was slightly different this year.

Maitland Council served up the festival in a 'deconstructed' style which saw pop-ups spread throughout the city and a night time component for the first time ever.

Council's events team leader Kara Stonestreet said 2500 turned out to enjoy the opening night festivities.

"We've been really happy to see all the crowds," she said. "This is the first flagship event council has put on since restrictions eased.

"It was a challenging year last year, not just for us but for the stallholders, musicians and entertainers.

"It's really good to be able to bring back large scale events."

After a crushing 12 months for the hospitality and event industry, it's food for the soul (and belly, of course) to see their return.

And the really great news?

It is just the beginning of Maitland's festival season with Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival returning on August 14 as well as Steamfest back on September 11.

And don't worry, we will fill you in with all details as they are revealed - stay tuned.

Meg Francis

Journalist