Hampshire Fair, the county’s food, drink and craft group, is excited to announce the return of the Winchester Food Festival, following the success of the inaugural event last year. This culinary extravaganza will take place on Sunday 14th July in the picturesque Outer Close of Winchester Cathedral.
In collaboration with Winchester BID and Winchester Cathedral, this year’s festival promises to be even bigger and better. It's free to attend and is a celebration of the finest local produce from the Winchester area and beyond.
The 2024 Winchester Food Festival will feature a wide range of food stalls, activities for all ages and chef demonstrations. Attendees will be spoiled for choice with a wide range of local delicacies including microgreens, trout, coffee, orchard juices, cheese, honey, beer and gin.
This year's new Winchester Food Festival will be preceded by a week-long program of events entitled 'Taste of Winchester' from Monday 8th July to Saturday 13th July. Hampshire Fair, in partnership with Winchester City Council, will partner with local food and drink producers, manufacturers and hospitality businesses based within the Winchester area to host unique events and activities in the lead-up to festival day. Encourage them to participate in the preparation. From tastings and gourmet masterclasses to special offers and themed menus.
Cllr Lucille Thompson, Portfolio Holder for Business and Culture at Winchester City Council, said: “This comprehensive community event allows both residents and visitors to taste the flavors of the entire district. The week-long gourmet event not only adds a new and exciting dimension to the festival, but also , will also help support local businesses and encourage both visitors and residents to “shop local, think local, support local”, especially during Independent Business Month. Winchester City Council is delighted to be working with Hampshire Fair, Winchester BID and Winchester Cathedral to celebrate the borough’s food and drink offer. ”
Natasha Dochniak, Commercial Manager at Hampshire Fair, said: “Hampshire is home to a wealth of excellent food and drink producers and we are delighted to be able to expand our celebration of the flavors of Winchester.”The cathedral provides a fantastic backdrop for the food festival. I can't wait to share my plans for the week as they unfold. ”
Dr. Paul Spencer of the Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) echoed this sentiment, saying: “Winchester BID is thrilled to once again be supporting Winchester Food Festival. Winchester is a food lover’s paradise and 14th July will be a great day for food lovers. We look forward to working with Winchester and celebrating Independent Business Month. ”
The Outer Close of Winchester Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop for the food festival and is the perfect setting to enjoy a picnic of local cuisine while enjoying stage performances from our chefs. John Blake, commercial director at Winchester Cathedral, said: We are excited to welcome Hampshire Fair, its members and the public to celebrate the county's great flavours. ”
The Winchester Food Festival is made possible through the generous support of local businesses and we are delighted to announce Clark & Son, Hampshire Fair’s valued legal partner, as our first partner. William Anderson, Director and Head of Corporate and Commercial Practice at Clark & Son, said: “We are really pleased to be partnering with Hampshire Fair to celebrate local produce and crafts at the Winchester Food Festival.” The festival embodies the spirit of collaboration and we are committed to fostering community connections. and are proud to play our part in supporting local businesses in Hampshire. ”