Thyme picked from hillsides around Alexandra surrounded diners as they tucked into local food and wine.
Organiser Kathi McLean, of the Central Otago rural education and activities programme (Reap), said the past week's festival events had been well supported by the local community as well as visitors from throughout New Zealand and overseas.
Workshops held during the week were booked out, and every piece of artwork made by nine selected artists during the festival was sold at auction on Saturday night to enthusiastic bidders.
One piece sold for $3100, with others selling for between $50 and $2000.
Some of it would go overseas, she said.
About 50 people attended the art auction and gala evening, which took place in and around the Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery in Pioneer Park.
Mrs McLean said the festival was in the fifth year of its revamped format, which blended art, sustainability and the Central Otago environment.
"It's a celebration of the community, our surrounding environment, our people, and the resources we have here.
"All the events, workshops, and associated activities are designed so people can cherish those things," she said.
Children were also celebrated yesterday during the festival's annual talent time show in Pioneer Park.
Members of the three-piece Dunedin acoustic group Del Girl judged the show, providing constructive advice to all who performed in a variety of genres, including dance, song, and instrumental.
A keen crowd watched performances and art and craft stalls in the park attracted shoppers browsing for Christmas gifts.
