Rootstock Festival: A Swede As Party In A Paddock

UPDATE: Organisers have made the decision to postpone the event till 2025.

Get ready for Southland’s most Southland event, Rootstock ‘24: a paddock festival celebrating the humble swede, to be held April 20 from 12-6pm in a swede paddock on Wilson’s Fruit and Vege Farm.

“Think swanndries and gumboots, and an epic line-up,” says co-organiser, Louise Evans.

The party in a paddock brought to you by Massav Productions and with support from GWD Toyota will feature Pretty Wicked Head and the Desperate Men, Lachie Hayes, Darcy Kerr, Cool Runnings and as well as plenty of curious swede dishes, cooking demonstrations and swede throwing.

The festival is aiming at redefining the swede, often thought of as livestock feed, or a bland, overboiled side dish.

“This isn’t your typical winter mash,” Evans says. “Our talented chefs, and local bakers (and chocolatiers) are embracing the swede’s simple charm and elevting it from humble beginnings to the centerpiece.”

Those turning swedes into feeds include Kadin Conner, chef of Fin and Feather in Rakiura; Chef Ethan Flack whose swede dishes are already a hit at his Kitchen Dinners, and Fat Bastard Pies. Tastings range from $2 to $10. And are perfectly paired with Garage Project beers and Wet Jacket Wines.

Attendees can take a bus from Invercargill or Winton and return to town after the event, or park in a paddock near the event. For event details, including parking and transport, follow Rootstock on Facebook and Instagram.

Note: The event is R18, cash-only and not wheelchair accessible.
Tickets are onsale now swedefest.nz