Hospitality Doctor
Max Hitchins
Turning March and April into hospitality gold
APRIL PROMOTIONS
1. ANZAC Day (April 25) Commemorative breakfasts and lunches on ANZAC Day resonate deeply with local communities. Opening early for post-dawn-service patrons or offering complimentary coffees to veterans are simple but meaningful gestures. Featuring ANZAC biscuits on menus or setting up memorabilia displays can create a respectful, community- driven atmosphere that strengthens your brand’s local connections. 2. Autumn Harvest Celebrations (All of April) April is Tasmania’s seasonal sweet spot for autumn produce: think apples, pears, mushrooms, truffles, and cool-climate wines. Launch an “Autumn Harvest Dinner Series” or offer tasting flights featuring local cider, cheese, and fruit pairings. Collaborate with local farmers and winemakers to co-host events that celebrate the richness of the region and draw in food-loving locals and tourists alike.
Tasmania’s hospitality scene has long been a blend of local pride, seasonal produce, and clever promotion. With March and April delivering a mix of public holidays, festivals, and natural beauty, there’s never been a better time for cafes, pubs, restaurants, and event spaces to roll out creative marketing ideas and draw in crowds. Here are three standout opportunities in each month that hospitality businesses can seize to increase foot traffic, build community loyalty, and boost revenue.
MARCH PROMOTIONS
1. Labour Day (March 9, 2026) In Tasmania, Labour Day offers a well-earned long weekend for workers. Hospitality venues can capitalise by promoting lazy lunches, happy hour sessions, or afternoon acoustic music events. Emphasise relaxation with “Long Weekend Chill” themes - perfect for couples, friends, and families looking to wind down. Outdoor dining, local wine tastings, or shared platters could help elevate the day into a destination-worthy experience. 2. St Patrick’s Day (March 17) No other day in March offers the same vibrant marketing potential as St Patrick’s Day. Think Irish stews, Guinness on tap, green cocktails, and themed music nights. Hold a “Pints & Pies” night or encourage patrons to dress up for the chance to win prizes. Even subtle Irish nods — a “Lucky Clover Cocktail” or Bailey’s chocolate dessert—can add flair to your usual menu and attract themed-event seekers. 3. Taste of the Huon Festival Held in Ranelagh, the Taste of the Huon Festival is a showcase of southern Tasmania’s best produce, wines, and artisanal delights. Even if your venue isn’t directly involved, you can ride the wave by hosting “Post-Festival Tastings” or “Meet the Maker” evenings featuring local suppliers. Align your menu to spotlight ingredients celebrated at the event and invite locals or tourists who didn’t make it to the festival to experience the region’s best in your venue.
With thoughtful planning, March and April can become two of the most rewarding months on the hospitality calendar. Can I suggest you do a staff think-tank to plan the events. Ask your staff which promotions are best suited for your business. Delegate the task of organising the promotions to various team members. If they are not already using
ChatGPT suggest they ask for help. All they need do is simply ask “How can we promote ?? in our Hospitality business.” If you have any questions, queries or quandaries send me an email to max@hitchins.com.au Max Hitchins is Author of CHASING GOLD and CHASING WINTER GOLD – Books designed to motivate and inspire your staff to achieve incredible things. More details at ChasingWinterGold.com.au
57 Tasmanian Hospitality Review February/March Edition
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