It’s time to dress up in your best fungi-inspired costume and visit a fascinating world of fungi, when Fungi Fest returns to Tauranga this month with a mix of science, creativity, food and family-friendly fun.

Hosted by Envirohub Bay of Plenty and EcoSci Creative Events Charitable Trust, the March 29 community event will take place from 10am-2pm at 31B Glasgow St as part of Sustainable Backyards month.

“The community day invites people of all ages to step into the weirdly wonderful world of fungi through interactive science, art activities and mushroom-themed experiences,” Envirohub Backyards co-ordinator and Fungi Fest event manager Te Ara Dirkse said.

Green mushroom costume winner Ella McGowan at the Fungi Fest in 2024. Photo / Supplied

Visitors can explore an education hub hosted by mycologist Peter Buchanan of Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, where they can learn about the vital role fungi play in ecosystems and even discover the difference between fungi and mushrooms.

One of the event’s highlights will be the immersive Biolume Space – a darkened room filled with artworks inspired by bioluminescent fungi. Visitors will navigate the glowing display using mini-UV torches while discovering hidden mushroom forms.

The fungi photo wall at the Fungi Fest. Photo / Supplied

Families can enjoy a giant fungi photo wall, colouring competitions, a fungi-themed tattoo room with Ola Studio, and a range of market stalls featuring mushroom products and fungi-inspired creations.

A pottery zone run by Tauranga Pottery Studio will give visitors the chance to make their own clay mushroom for $2, with the option to have it kiln-fired for an additional $3.

Food vendors will serve up fungi-themed treats, including mushroom-filled woodfired pizzas from Salvatore’s Woodfire Pizza, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

Those feeling adventurous were encouraged to come dressed in fungi-inspired costumes, with prizes and spot awards for participants.

Darrinee Horton at a previous Fungi Fest in front of the photo wall. Photo/ Supplied

Dirkse said the day was about bringing people together to explore the hidden world beneath our feet.

“Come dressed in your best fungi-inspired costume for the chance to win a cool prize – plus spot prizes for anyone who joins the fun.”

Entry is by koha, meaning visitors could pay what they could afford, or pay koha online ahead of time if they want to skip the queue and save the hassle of bringing change. Stallholders would also run a raffle.

“The festival celebrates science, creativity and community connection – all inspired by the remarkable and often overlooked world of fungi,” Dirkse said.

Fungi Fest is on from 10am-2pm on Sunday, March 29, at Envirohub Bay of Plenty, 31B Glasgow St, Tauranga.