The highly-anticipated Colchester Food and Drink Festival is set to return this summer, promising an exciting experience for food and drink enthusiasts. This year’s festival will be held on June 29 and June 30 at the St Peters Street entrance (Ryegate) at Lower Castle Park, boasting a total of 120 stalls offering a diverse array of delectable treats.
Organised by Don Quinn, attendees can gain access to the festival for a nominal fee of £6 per adult, ensuring an affordable and enjoyable experience for all. This entry fee covers the cost of complimentary tasters and grants access to a novel addition to the festival’s offerings this year – a free silent disco, available throughout the entirety of the two-day event. The festival’s musical lineup will be curated by Three Wise Monkeys, featuring a range of musical acts to further enrich the festival experience.
Convenience is also a priority, as free parking will be provided for festival-goers at Kings Meadows. The festival will offer an extensive selection of food choices, boasting a diverse range of cuisines from Indian to European, as well as an abundance of prosecco from Italy. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of offerings, including pie and mash, local oysters, local cheese, and other delightful delicacies.
Furthermore, the festival will host approximately twelve charity stalls, underscoring the importance of community involvement and support. Those seeking to relax with a refreshing drink can visit the Pikestaff Inn real ale bar, offering a selection of cider and cold lager. Festival-goers can also relish a four-pint ‘growler’ onsite or obtain it to go.
Pets are also welcome at the festival, accompanied by a reminder for dog owners to act responsibly. Established 21 years ago, the Colchester Food and Drink Festival has gained popularity, drawing an average of 7,000 visitors annually. Ticket prices for the event are set at £6 per adult, £2 for children aged 6 to 14, and free of charge for children aged 5 and under. Moreover, VIP marquee tickets are available for individual purchase by seat or tables of six and eight.
The festival will be open for exploration from 10.30am to 5pm each day, with tickets available for purchase online at foodanddrinkfestivalsuk.co.uk.
As with any community event, it is imperative for all attendees to adhere to the rules and guidelines to ensure a positive and rewarding experience for all those involved. The festival organisers encourage respectful and responsible behaviour, acknowledging the privilege of engaging and sharing in the collective experience.
Prepare your taste buds and mark your calendars for the Colchester Food and Drink Festival – a dynamic celebration of culinary delights and lively entertainment that is not to be missed.