The program of events for Plate Up Ballarat was launched to guests on Monday night. 

The festival's line up of more than 50 events will feature lunches and dinners, workshops, markets, food trucks, high teas, fashion, live music, competitions and guided beer, wine, whisky and gin tastings throughout the month of May. 

Plate Up Ballarat director Kate Davis said the festival was a chance to show off  'regional dining at its best'. 

"We are serious about Ballarat being the culinary capital of the west," she said. 

The 2019 program features more events on weekends to cater for those traveling from abroad and new specialised offerings. 

More than 20 venues will plate up their best toasties as part of Toast of Ballarat - an offering to include smaller venues that may not have the capacity to hold an event. 

Many venues and events will focus on plant based eating following the introduction of Plant Up Ballarat -  a introduction to the calendar that was a response to the rising popularity of plant based offerings. 

A new community competition titled Ballarat Blokes Who Bake will provide an opportunity for local men to put their baking before a judging panel in an effort to raise money and awareness for men's mental health. 

What is clear is the diversity and the range of offerings that will bring community together and create a sense of pride.

From an open day at the Ballarat Wholefoods Collective, to the Made of Ballarat marketplace where local artisans and producers will sell their wares, Ms Davis says there are events to cater for all ages and interests. 

Ballarat Foundation is festival's official charity partner with all fundraising from events and optional donations on ticket sales donated to the Feed Ballarat appeal.

City of Ballarat mayor Samantha McIntosh said Plate Up Ballarat had helped the city's food and wine industry take a great step forward. 

"To be able to buddy up with some important local people that know this industry well, support, celebrate and share it, has made an enormous difference - one that I think is revolutionising the industry," she said. 

Visit Ballarat industry and development manager Serena Eldridge said good food and wine was one of the top six drivers for visitation in Victoria. 

"Up to June 2018, 4.2 million visitors to Victoria participated in a food and wine experience," she said.

"Events like Plate Up Ballarat are critical to showcasing what our region has to offer."

Tickets are now available for purchase. Visit plateupballarat.com.au for more information and the full program. 

RELATED COVERAGE: