“Back to Where It Began” - Organisers Confirm 2026 Dates for Huge Food Festival in Newcastle
The Newcastle Food Festival will return to its original home of Exhibition Park across the May Bank Holiday Weekend, 2nd-4th May 2026, for its third annual celebration of global foods, local community, and performing arts.
Plans are underway to elevate visitor experience across all of the festival’s core offerings. Attendees can anticipate the introduction of fresh production touches, unique family activities, and a refined entertainment programme featuring a diverse selection of performances.
Festival Director Michael Johnston spoke on the festival’s goals heading into 2026: “It’s really exciting to return back to where it all started, especially following all of the support from the local community since we launched. Behind the scenes, we’ve reviewed every single aspect of the festival, from the live entertainment and production, to the family activities and range of produce on display. We’re introducing plenty of change, so both newcomers and returning attendees can look forward to a memorable May Bank Holiday Weekend.”
Festival-goers can anticipate a reimagined festival programme that includes a vibrant mix of world entertainment. The Live Music Stage is set to showcase an eclectic combination of international performances, while the Cookery Theatre invites chefs from a range of culinary backgrounds to highlight both global cuisines and regional specialities.
Awaiting families is a line-up of brand-new activities, challenges, and competitions across all three days of the weekend. While the complete details are yet to be disclosed, organisers have hinted at the introduction of a new stage dedicated to delivering a series of hands-on, immersive experiences for both friends and families alike.
A range of Newcastle’s leading artisans, entrepreneurs, local businesses and performers are scheduled to feature across the weekend. With over 85 independent traders featuring in 2025, Assistant Festival Manager Izaak Shuttleworth spoke on what else is to expect this May: “We were thrilled to receive so many positive comments from last year’s attendees. Heading into our third year, we’re prioritising building on all of their lovely feedback while introducing increased variety across all aspects of the festival. This variety will reach across the Street Food Arena, artisan markets, bars and the festival aesthetic itself!”
Tyneside & Northumberland Mind are set to partner with the festival for a third consecutive year. Through on-site activities and optional donations, organisers hope to build on the £164,300 collectively raised for their charities across the North of England so far.
For more information, Early Bird Tickets, and updates, visit https://newcastlefoodanddrinkfestival.com.
