Gather on Kensington Street

Gather on Kensington Street was the first in a new series of signature events under our own festival banner – a celebration of food, wine, and placemaking at the heart of We Are Gather’s creative vision. Funded by Investment NSW as part of the state’s 24-Hour Economy COVID recovery strategy, the event was designed to reinvigorate Sydney’s inner-city precincts by bringing people back into the CBD for high-quality, community-led experiences. We Are Gather led the entire project – from vision and stakeholder alignment through to curation, production, partnerships and delivery. Working alongside major retailers, cultural institutions and hospitality venues across Kensington Street, the result was a weekend-long takeover of one of Sydney’s most vibrant culinary laneways.

The street was closed to traffic and opened to possibility – with pop-up cellar doors from regional NSW’s next-generation winemakers, a food program led by chef Clayton Wells (Automata), and a curated wine program by sommelier Samantha Payne. Across three days, over 5,000 attendees explored immersive tastings, hands-on masterclasses, long lunches, live acts, family-friendly moments and late-night DJ sets. The event also included partnerships with Phoenix Central Park, The Old Clare Hotel, FBi Radio and Nomad Radio – bringing together art, music and community in one high-energy, place-led experience. Gather on Kensington Street wasn’t just a festival – it was a catalyst. A chance for the neighbourhood to work together, reconnect with locals, and form the now-established Chippo Collective of stakeholders working collaboratively on the precinct’s future. Gather on Kensington Street delivered more than a great time – it sparked a sense of pride, possibility and shared ownership for one of Sydney’s most creative corners. “This has been one of the best wine festivals I’ve been a part of – thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of it.” – Sam Leyshon, Wine Vendor, Mallaluka