Sheffield’s Graves Park will host expanded crowds this August Bank Holiday Weekend as the second annual Graves Park Food Festival returns with a fourth stage, expanded artisan markets, and interactive entertainment arenas.
Running from Saturday, August 29 through Monday, August 31, the three-day event builds on last year’s debut by introducing the new Sizzling Showdown Arena. Hosted by comedian Neil Frost and partnered with Pure Pet Food, the venue will feature interactive audience events ranging from a family dog show to a chilli-eating contest and pie-themed bingo.
The festival’s expanded footprint includes four distinct entertainment zones. The Main Stage will host 20 local and tribute acts across the weekend, headlined by Arctic Monkeys tribute band The Mardy Bums on Saturday night and Planet ABBA on Sunday evening.
Gastronomy remains central to the event, with the Yorkshire Food Guide Cookery Theatre hosting live demonstrations from regional chefs, including Jon Appleby, Sandy Docherty, Sumith Babu, and Chris Hobson.
Over 70 regional artisans will sell produce and crafts in the market area, complemented by two dedicated bar streets featuring 10 local vendors, including Vocation Brewery’s real ale setup. The central Street Food Arena brings together 23 international food vendors.
Beyond food, the grounds feature hands-on activity stations including historical cooking demonstrations by the Viking Heritage Kitchen, target workshops, VR gaming, axe throwing, and free children’s cooking classes by Artisan Cooks.
Organisers have partnered with Sheffield Mind to collect donations on-site, aiming to add to the £191,000 previously raised for Mind charities at sister events across England.
Gates open Saturday at 10:00 AM, with free parking available adjacent to the site.
