Northamptonshire’s inaugural Food & Drink Week is rapidly approaching, scheduled to commence in just ten days on the 1st of June and extend through to the 9th. The event, organized by Made in Northamptonshire and the Northamptonshire Tourism Business Network, is set to feature an impressive array of over 25 special events, local menus, pop-ups, tours, and tastings, shining a spotlight on the county’s diverse culinary scene.
Rachel Mallows, The Director of Made in Northamptonshire, who played a pivotal role in the conception of the event, shared her aspirations for the initiative. She envisages that the week-long celebration will serve as a platform for local businesses to enhance their visibility and attract new customers.
Mallows expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Northamptonshire offers an array of delightful flavours and authentic homegrown hospitality. Whether it be pubs, restaurants, caterers, or food and drink producers, we all aim to boost sales and entice more customers – and this new Food & Drink Week presents an excellent opportunity to achieve that.”
Supported by Wilson Browne Solicitors, the event aims to showcase Northamptonshire’s culinary excellence, uniting a diverse array of local producers, chefs, and food enthusiasts.
Wayne Jenkins, Business Development and Marketing Director at Wilson Browne Solicitors, also echoed the enthusiasm, emphasizing the significance of supporting local businesses, education, sports, and the arts, underscoring the firm’s dedication to events such as the Food & Drink Week.
Jenkins mentioned participating in various local businesses and engaging with students at Northampton College to gauge their interest in the Food & Drink sector, highlighting the diverse engagement the event has already generated.
As excitement mounts, local businesses are gearing up to participate in the festivities. For example, Jeyes of Earls Barton will collaborate with Mee Blueberries to curate a special Balsamic Blueberry Menu throughout Food & Drink Week. The establishment will also host its first baking demonstration in partnership with The Incredible Bakery Company, promising valuable insights into creating delicious gluten-free treats.
The offerings for the week are as varied as they are immersive, with a local produce market and showcase at Whitco in Thrapston, The Best of Northamptonshire Long Table Banquet at the Tollemache Arms in Harrington, a Food and Drink Festival at Delapre Abbey, coffee and baking demonstrations, product tastings, gin discounts, and special menus at various dining establishments across the county.
The organizers invite both visitors and residents to partake in this momentous occasion and revel in the county’s rich gastronomic culture. Further details and participation information can be found on the event’s official website. Instagram users can also engage with the event by using the hashtag #northantsfooddrinkweek. Those planning to host events that align with the ethos of the Food & Drink Week are encouraged to reach out via email.
As the countdown to the exciting debut of Northamptonshire’s Food & Drink Week continues, the anticipation and enthusiasm within the local community are palpable. With its diverse lineup of events and the collective enthusiasm of local businesses and residents, the inaugural Food & Drink Week is poised to be a resounding celebration of Northamptonshire’s vibrant culinary landscape.