Despite a blustery start to the bank holiday weekend, the Bolton Food and Drink Festival has once again proven to be a highlight in the town’s calendar. This year, the festival marked its 19th edition with a spectacular array of food, drink and entertainment for all ages, drawing thousands of visitors to the heart of Bolton.

A Feast for the Senses

Stalls lined the streets, offering an array of cuisines from around the world, showcasing the town’s diverse cultural heritage. From traditional British hearty pies to exotic street food from the Far East and spicy delights from India, the festival catered to every palate.

The artisan markets were also a main attraction that offered even more tasty nibbles. Here, visitors had the opportunity to sample and purchase everything from cheeses, organic meats, and freshly baked bread to unique condiments and sweet treats. The emphasis on local produce was a testament to Bolton’s thriving food scene.

Family Fun and Entertainment

Bolton Food and Drink Festival has always been about more than just food, and this year’s event was no exception. This is because, the festival continued to deliver a wide range of entertainment suitable for all ages. The children’s zone was bustling with live performances, storytelling, and craft workshops keeping the little ones entertained throughout the weekend.

Music and street performances also added to the festival atmosphere, with local bands and tribute artists taking to various stages across the town centre. The sound of live music created a lively backdrop as visitors wandered through the stalls.

Celebrity Chefs and Live Demonstrations

The festival would not be complete however, without its star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs, and this year was no exception. Renowned chefs such as James Martin and Ainsley Harriott took to the main stage to showcase their skills in live cooking demonstrations. These sessions were a huge hit, with audiences eager to learn tips and tricks from the best in the business, with the added bonus of getting their cook books signed afterwards.

As well as this, for those looking to hone their own cooking skills, the festival also offered a series of interactive workshops. From pasta making to cake decorating, these hands-on sessions were a hit with both adults and children, providing a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

A Focus on Sustainability

In keeping with the global push towards sustainability, this year’s festival placed a strong emphasis on reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices. Many stalls used compostable packaging, and recycling stations were set up around the festival site to encourage visitors to dispose of their waste responsibly.

There was also a series of talks and workshops focused on sustainable living, covering topics such as reducing food waste and the benefits of growing your own vegetables.

To conclude the Bolton Food and Drink Festival 2024 was more than just a weekend of indulgence; it was a weekend of culture, creativity and education. Whether you were a seasoned foodie or just out for a day of fun, the festival offered something for everyone, leaving us all eagerly anticipating next year’s festival, which will be the events 20th anniversary!

So, join us in Bolton next year for another weekend of celebrating local businesses and hopefully soaking up the sunshine.