Dates confirmed for Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink 2018

The award-winning Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink returns for its 15th consecutive year on the May Day Bank Holiday, from Saturday 5th to Monday 7th May 2018.

A firm fixture on the food festival calendar, the event is held in the scenic grounds of Exeter Castle Courtyard and Northernhay Gardens. From celebrity chefs and producers to workshops and live music, expect a long weekend of foodie indulgence.

Three evening music festivals also run over the weekend, from 6:30pm on Friday 4th May with live music, tasty street food and a lively atmosphere.

The festival itself kicks off on Saturday 5th May at 10am.

Attracting around 20,000 visitors, the three-day festival offers exceptional food and drink produced in the South West, alongside cookery demonstrations, workshop activities and the chance to meet producers and chefs, with over 100 exhibitors in two large food and drink pavilions.

Last year’s the Festival Cookery Theatre featured no fewer than seven Michelin starred chefs, including festival co-founder Michael Caines MBE, who leads a packed programme of live demonstrations in the cookery theatre.

Michael said: “I’m delighted that the Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink will be returning for a 15th year. Each year the bar is raised, with over 100 producers showcasing their talent and best produce, providing a magnificent platform to exhibit what the South West has to offer.

"The festival is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in interactive sessions, be wowed by the masterclasses and families can enjoy the learning zones which will enrich the whole experience. With our three-day food festival featuring top chefs, which last year included the likes of Tom Kerridge, Paul Ainsworth and Michael Wignall and three evening/day music festival in the castle where we have our festival bar, the weekend has something to offer for everyone.

"Last year the dates of the Festival were moved to the May Bank Holiday with great success, and once again visitors will be able to head to the region to discover the special food and drink we’re all so proud of.”

Each year, the festival hosts interactive workshops and food-themed activities for both adults and children. A dedicated children’s programme includes Fun Kitchen cookery classes, farm animals, story-telling and craft activities, helping children understand more about their food, an awareness of where it comes from and instil a love of cooking. The Darts Farm Taste and Knowledge Teepees host a packed schedule of workshops, demonstrations and talks on topical food and drink themes.

Exeter Castle Courtyard will feature live music from local musicians and bands to enjoy whilst savouring the Festival Bar, with street food served throughout the day and late into the evening. Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink is a not for profit event.

For more information or to buy tickets visit: www.exeterfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk