All the fun of the food festivals
Wales loves nothing more than showing off its magnificent products and creative culinary skills at colourful food and drink events – and there are simply dozens taking place this year. So, for those who are eager to get a few dates in their diaries, here are just some of the fabulous festivals you might like to consider…
Abergavenny Food Festival
September 19-20
Tickets: TBC
A key event for foodies’ diaries, this is one of the country’s best-known festivals. As autumn begins, the historic market town will be filled with the sights, sounds and smells of scrumptious Welsh delights being prepared, cooked and served. The festival usually features around 180 exhibitors across several venues. Grab a seat for lively culinary theatre, with demonstrations and talks from celebrated chefs. Look out for the colourful Night Market and the magical Party at the Castle where you can don your dancing shoes before or after you dine.
Cardiff Food and Drink Festival
July 3-5
Free admission
Described as a “love letter to Welsh produce,” the Cardiff Food and Drink Festival is one definitely not to be missed. Head to Roald Dahl Plass this July for a scorching hot summer selection of around 100 stands. The Producers Fair and Farmers Market will showcase a spectacular spread of quality produce. Meanwhile, on Street Food Piazza, you will be able to dip into all sorts of freshly cooked treats.
Cardigan River and Food Festival
August 15
Tickets: Adults £5, children free
Now in its 26th year, the Cardigan River and Food Festival is set against the scenic backdrop of the River Teifi. Usually encompassing some 100 stalls, this year’s event promises to be even bigger. Venture out to meet Welsh food and drink producers alongside local craft makers. With entertainment and activities for youngsters, there promises to be something here for everyone.
Denbigh Plum Feast
October 3
Free admission
Celebrate the Vale of Clwyd Denbigh Plum – the only plum variety native to Wales at this food festival in early October. Showcasing a range of small artisan producers, many from North East Wales, there will also be stands selling high-quality crafts and gifts. The barbecue demonstrations at this event are always a major draw.
Lampeter Food Festival
July 26
Free admission
Head to the beautiful grounds of the oldest university in Wales for this year’s Lampeter Food Festival. As ever, there will be a delectable spread of fabulous food and drink items from specialist Mid and West Wales producers. Meet the award-winning artisans, learn how their products are made and even sample a few. There will be cookery demonstrations and lectures, as well as music, dancing and craft stalls.
Llangollen Food Festival
October 10-11
Free admission
Stroll through the picturesque town of Llangollen, sampling everything from locally made juices and jams to hot Argentinian barbecues. The event takes place across a range of venues, including Llangollen Railway Station and vibrant Market Street. Discover live cooking demos, tastings and interactive workshops at the Blas School and Silver Band Room and set your toes tapping to live music at the Town Square and Band Stand.
Milford Haven Harbour Festival
June 27
Free admission
Savour a range of enticing food products and a day out by the water when the Milford Haven Harbour Festival sails into Pembrokeshire. As well as heritage and maritime activities highlighting the town’s seafaring history, there will be music, entertainment and dozens of stalls selling local produce and serving freshly made street food.
Narberth Food Festival
September 26-27
Tickets: Adults £7, children free
The Narberth Food Festival in Pembrokeshire is one of the longest established events of the culinary calendar. Featuring around 50 stalls, it turns the Town Moor at the top of the High Street into a bustling hub of food and musical delights. Watch guest chefs conjure up their magical creations and listen to local bands as you sample all sorts of delicious Welsh food and drink.
Royal Welsh Show
July 20-23
Tickets: Adults £37 any day, £35 specific day, children £10.50
Food and drink play a major role at the Royal Welsh Show in Builth Wells. There is fun for all the family at this annual landmark event that sees the setting up of more than 1,000 stands. In addition to livestock and equine competitions, crafts and countryside sports, the Food Hall and Welsh Food Village will, of course, also be at the very heart of this year’s major show. It is likely to feature some 60 stands of its own, where you can enjoy the delicious aromas and unique flavours of everything from sizzling smoked meats to mouth-watering sweet treats.
St Fagans Food Festival
September 12-13
Free admission, no ticket required, with some paid-for activities (eg the fairground)
Some 12,000 to 15,000 visitors are expected at this popular food festival that takes place within St Fagans National Museum of History. With over 70 stalls in total, the Food Market will be laden with local produce such as cakes, preserves and cheeses, while the street food sections will offer visitors the chance to experience cuisines from across the world, as well as from Wales. There will be live music, activities for children and plenty of food demonstrations with the historic houses on site.
The Big Welsh Bite
August 1-August 2
Free admission
Back with a bang, Pontypridd’s Big Welsh Bite will see more than 60 local and regional producers display their delicious food and drink products. The event will feature celebrity chefs, cookery demos and a scintillating selection of street food, together with a funfair and live entertainment.
And not forgetting…
Aberdyfi Food Festival
August 16
Barry Island Food Festival
June 6-June 7
Brecon Beacons Food Festival
October 3
Caerphilly Cheese Festival
August 29-30
Cardiff Wine Festival
June 5-6
Conwy Honey Fair
September 12
Fantastic Fete (Street Food Circus)
July 31-August 2 and August 7-9, St Donat’s Castle
Great British Food Festival
August 29-31, Margam Park
Harbour Feastival (Street Food Circus)
August 7-9 and September 4-6, Saundersfoot Harbour
Llanelli Food and Drink Festival
October 17
Mold Food and Drink Festival
September 19-20
Newport Food and Drink Festival
October 3
Newtown Food Festival
September 5-6
South Wales Vegan Festival
September 5, Penarth Leisure Centre
Summer Feastival (Street Food Circus)
June 19-21, Pembury Country Park
Details of all events listed may be subject to change
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