THE 2008 Hepburn Springs Swiss Italian Festa is being acclaimed as the best ever.
Event president Rob McDonald said organisers were buoyed by strong crowd numbers and volunteer support across the festival's 10 days.
"Tickets were sold out at nearly every event with waiting lists at all the wine and food events and standing room only at many others," Mr McDonald said.
The Family Festa on Sunday drew record crowds. Nearly 1500 people marched in the parade down Main Rd and about 700 people turned out to see the lantern parade and fireworks, despite the cold and wet weather.
Mr McDonald also praised volunteers and said a record number of new volunteers supervised ticket sales.
"As president I wish to convey my thanks to my hard-working committee, all of our sponsors and all of the fantastic volunteers who made the event work smoothly.
"Thanks also to the general public for once again supporting the event with their attendance and participation," Mr McDonald said.
"This was indeed a spectacular celebration of our history, lifestyle and culture. A wonderful display of a healthy, vibrant community in action," he said.