It’s summer and festival season is firmly upon us. But if you’re more into mealtimes than music, perhaps a food festival could be just the ticket for you? Combining wonderful produce with cooking tips and a fun day out for all of the family, going to a food festival can fill you with inspiration. But what can you expect from a day at a food festival and which are the best ones to attend in the UK this year?
Vegfest – Bristol
Vegfest is the latest in a long line of vegan food festivals focusing solely on pleasing those who choose a greener diet. For existing vegans it’s a great opportunity to peruse the stalls and watch live cookery demos throughout the day. For people considering a vegan lifestyle – which the Vegan Society claims to be a healthy and environmentally friendly choice – it’s a good chance to learn about the diet.
Wilderness – Oxfordshire
Wildness festival is a three day event that combines cooking with a whole host of other inspiring and enjoyable activities. Expect to rub shoulders with top notch chefs such as Raymond Blanc and Deliciously Ella, and by booking ahead you can even secure a seat at a long table banquet event. Wild swimming, boating and live music are all also staple requirements at this exclusive food fest.
Aldeburgh – Suffolk
Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival might be a more tranquil affair from it’s location on the banks of the river Alde, but it is a popular annual festival that promises a wealth of knowledge for would-be cooks. Booming music, A-list chefs and commercial warewashers (https://www.247cateringsupplies.co.uk/bar-supplies/commercial-warewashers) may be sparse, but Aldeburgh is a peaceful and thoughtful place in which to learn about food.
The Big Festival – Oxfordshire
If you want to mix food inspiration with celebrity spotting then The Big Festival could be for you. Organised by Jamie Oliver and Alex James, the festival features top chefs and famous kids’ TV presenters, alongside chart topping musicians. Families will love this festival thanks to the educational demo kitchens and entertainment on offer.
Meatopia – East London
Perhaps one for the vegetarians to avoid, Meatopia celebrates all things carnivorous. Butchery demos, real ale and street music are a few of the things you can expect to find at this meat lover’s paradise.