In addition to many local business satellite events being sold out, over 70 stall holders anda team of volunteers, musicians and artisans worked hard to feed and entertain a crowd of several thousands excited festival goers at Saturday's main event.

In opening the event, Mayor Peta Pinson described the event as 'a great day for the city.

"What a great day this is, great for the city and great to see our food and wine on show," she told the crowd.

"Pleasingly, the weather is holding out for us and I would really encourage everyone to stay around until late as we have some wonderful events and activities happening right up until 8pm.

"I can guarantee you, that no one is going to go home from here today hungry ... there's plenty of retailers and local business here today. So, go on and support them and enjoy it."

Mayor Pinson also praised the Town Square, which was utilised for the first time for Saturday's event.

"Doesn't the Town Square look fantastic," she said.

"It has a great vibe; there are plenty of stall holders open for today's event. It looks great.

"I can't wait to see it attracting people back into the central business district too.

"It is a real focal point for Port Macquarie. It's got a great vibe to it already and the surrounding businesses will certainly benefit once it is fully operational."

Following an extraordinary number of entries, the winners of the Tastings on Hastings Favourite Foodie Awards were revealed on Saturday afternoon.

The winners are:

Best local produce - Ken Little's Fruit and Veg; Best in bottle - Black Duck Brewery; Best in coffee - Four Espresso; Best in dining - Delizioso.

Council director Jeffery Sharp said the overwhelming community support for the awards was a testament to the great local hospitality businesses who continue to deliver a quality product and service.

"The winners should be very proud of their achievements, leading the way in contributing to our region's growing reputation as a vibrant food destination," Mr Sharp said.