Scarborough is set to welcome a brand-new celebration of world cuisine and handcrafted goods next month, as the Scarborough Food and Drink Festival takes over the town’s Open Air Theatre on April 12 and 13. Expected to draw thousands of visitors, the two-day festival promises a vibrant mix of international flavours, artisan products and family-friendly entertainment.
With 50 independent stallholders lined up, the free event will showcase everything from classic Yorkshire crumbles and locally made spirits to artisan cheese and indulgent sweet treats. Organisers hope the festival will not only delight food lovers but also give a welcome boost to the local economy by attracting visitors earlier in the tourist season.
North Yorkshire Council’s assistant director for culture and leisure, Jo Ireland, said: “This exciting new event is another fantastic example of how we’re expanding our year-round offer for local people and visitors. By hosting the festival at the Open Air Theatre, we’re creating a platform for local and national traders, attracting more visitors and strengthening Scarborough’s reputation as a must-visit destination.”
Among the traders attending the festival is Crofts Chocolates, a beloved local business run by Alex Grant and his mother, Sheila. She said: “Local events are key to reaching new customers and staying connected with our community. We’ve been making chocolates with love since 2013 and events like this help small businesses like ours to grow. We’re looking forward to meeting new faces in Scarborough.”
The festival comes as part of a wider effort to extend Scarborough’s cultural and economic calendar beyond the peak summer months. Last year, the Open Air Theatre generated £8.5 million for the town’s economy, and the new festival aims to build on that success by drawing in even more visitors. Tourism remains a major force for the region, contributing £561 million annually and supporting over 5,600 jobs.
Food lovers who can’t get enough of local events will also be pleased to know that the festival complements the returning Filey Food Festival, which will take place on April 19 and 20, June 7 and 8, August 9 and 10, and October 11 and 12.
With delicious food, talented artisans and a stunning seaside setting, the Scarborough Food and Drink Festival is shaping up to be a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike.
