FLORIADE is getting a Food and Wine week to bring visitors a menu of free demonstrations and events.

From 22-28 September Floraide goers sample the capital region’s wines, explore the science behind our tastebuds and sample some of the area’s best local produce.

The Kitchen Company Tasting Plate will see celebrity chef Miguel Maestre entertain the crowds in eight separate shows across Saturday and Sunday (27-28 September). The star of Channel 10’s The Living Room is eager for foodies to join him as he takes visitors on a Spanish culinary exploration.

“I can’t wait to share my passion with fellow foodies and bring some Spanish flair to Floriade using beautiful Australian produce,” Miguel said.

Beer fans can also enjoy a tasting voyage with the “School of Beer”, while wine lovers can learn how to be a wine snob in 30 minutes. A range of other workshops will also be on offer including cider and martini making, the art of beer and how to integrate spices into your food and wine experience.

NightFest will also coincide with Food and Wine week, offering brilliant lighting designs, exciting performances and live entertainment after-dark, as well as a range of food and wine demonstrations continuing into the evening.

The full program for Floriade and Floriade Nightfest is now available online. Floriade runs from 13 September until 12 October in Canberra’s Commonwealth Park, while NightFest will light up the night from 24-28 September.