The "Four Weekends of Winter F.A.W.C!" get under way tonight.
The Food and Wine Classic was introduced to the region in 2012 by Hawke's Bay Tourism and it was so successful that it was decided there should be a Winter F.A.W.C! as well.
The event last year was such a success that this year there will be even more opportunity for people to sample the quality food and wine that this region produces.
Eleven of the 51 events inthe Winter F.A.W.C! programme will be held this weekend and Hawke's Bay Tourism says that the demand for tickets has been "exceptionally high".
F.A.W.C!, be it the full version in summer or the winter event, has brought much to our region. It is an opportunity to showcase the magnificent establishments we have in this region.
I have lived in many regions around the world and it is not often that you get so many high-quality places to eat and drink. The beautiful scenery where many of the wineries and restaurants are located combine with the excellent food that is produced.
Tourism Hawke's Bay says that people who attend F.A.W.C! events are a mixture of locals and visitors, which is good.
However, as word spreads I am sure we will get more visitors coming to experience F.A.W.C!
I have written before of how impressed I have been at the number of well-organised events we have in Hawke's Bay each year.
F.A.W.C! is right up there with Horse of the Year, Art Deco Weekend, the Hawke's Bay A & P Show and many other outstanding events.
So, get out this month and make sure you are part of Winter F.A.W.C!