Harbord Hotel, the iconic Freshwater landmark, recently held a 10-day Froth Fest celebrating music, art, and films centering on the popular Northern Beaches surf culture to mark its re-opening.
Amidst hundreds of event cancellations or delays due to the pandemic, Froth Fest became one of the most diverse events in Sydney in 2021. The celebration featured sessions on yoga, food, art and photography installations, surfing demonstrations, live performances, and film screening. It aimed to showcase the beautiful history of this side of Sydney’s legendary surf life.
Froth Fest was the first major event mounted on Harbord Hotel as it reopened its doors in the summer of 2021, following a long-overdue refurbishment. Formerly called the Harbord Beach Hotel, the building has been given a fresh look with the addition of a new main bar and restaurant, Balsa.
“In Balsa, we endeavour to bring to you a relaxed, coastal pub meal in a beautiful dining room setting. Embracing its oceanside location, Balsa is a nod to the single element we owe the freedom of surfing to – the lightweight wood that transformed chasing sets into a national pastime.”
Some parts of the structure, which have been covered or inaccessible for decades, have been opened to feature beautiful arches and artefacts.
Known as the hangout and home for many surfers, this beachside haven is nearly a century old. New co-owner Glenn Piper is thrilled to re-open the venue and see the guests communing yet again.
The second phase of the refurbishment, currently underway, will include the opening of the cafe and the boutique accommodation.
For bookings at Balsa, visit Harbord Hotel online. The restaurant is open from brekky to sundown. Follow them on Instagram as well for updates on the live performances, menu specials, and other news about the revatilised hotel.
