![Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold with Cakeboi owner and former MasterChef contestant Reece Hignell. Picture supplied. Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold with Cakeboi owner and former MasterChef contestant Reece Hignell. Picture supplied.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/144356892/a14aea9a-fb75-4be4-86b7-b571305bea7e.jpg/r0_105_2048_1261_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
Grab your cosiest scarf and rug up for a wintery weekend of deliciousness, when Maitland Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival returns to The Levee in August.
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Nestled in The Levee's Riverside car park from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday, August 12 and 13, Maitland Aroma has firmly established itself as an "unmissable event for local coffee and chocolate connoisseurs of all ages", according to Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold.
"What better way to ward off the winter chill than with a warm coffee from some of the Hunter's finest roasters in hand, and a decadent sweet treat to match," Cr Penfold said.
Former MasterChef contestant and Newcastle resident Reece Hignell - better known as Cakeboi - will be master of ceremonies on the event's Flavour Stage, where local businesses and roasters such as River Roast, My Three Beans and Schibello Coffee will be running a host of delicious workshops and demonstrations.
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Patrons can wander over between brews to learn all about crafting the perfect coffee at home, cake decoration, different coffee flavours from around the world and more.
Joining the lineup of coffee vendors are featured coffee partner Bliss Coffee Roasters as well as Dash and the Hound, Sprocket Roasters, Aurebelle Coffee and Gourmet Coffee Cruiser.
Mr Hignell said he was "excited to be on stage and sharing some cooking tidbits with the people of Maitland".
"We'll be bringing everyone on a journey over the weekend, with some insightful sessions where you can soak up some culinary advice that you can take home and try out," he said.
"Whether you're a passionate baking enthusiast or simply have a sweet tooth, there's something for everyone."
There'll be pastries aplenty, with chocolate treats from Funky Monkey Cookies, Cacaotte Organic Chocolate, Choux Patisserie, Big Thicc and Mama Rosie's Rocky Road amongst the stallholders.
Soundtracking the weekend are a collection of local musicians, such as the Pat Eyre Duo, jazz band Half Nelson, soul group Hamilton Alley Trio and Lady and Jay.
Maitland Aroma is a free entry, all ages event with free family activities, such as painting with coffee and pretend play fun in the Babyccinos Kids Zone.
From crepes and cookies to pastries and cupcakes, Maitland Aroma will boast an amazing array of eats over the weekend.
And if you fancy something other than coffee, there are alcoholic options aplenty, from wine and craft beer to cider and liqueurs.
Estia Health joins Maitland Aroma this year as the event's community partner, while Norco and MILKLAB serve as milk and alternative milk partner, respectively.
For more information on Maitland Aroma's program of activities, visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au.