Everything You Need to Know About… Newcastle Food Festival
All the details you'll need about this exciting addition to the city's foodie calendar
Newcastle Food Festival made its debut in the city last year and we're happy to report that it's returning for a second edition in 2025.
The two-day celebration of food, drink and community is set to be even bigger and better this year and we've put together a handy guide with all the info you need to get the most out of it.
What is the Newcastle Food Festival?
It's an absolute extravaganza of food, drinks and family fun and it's returning to Newcastle for its second edition this year, bringing with it delicious array of food - both local and global - and a packed programme of entertainment too. Throughout its two-day run, there'll be tonnes of street food stalls to explore alongside bars, an artisan market and live chef demos.
Beyond the food and drink, there’s an exciting music line-up of talented performers and tribute acts plus plenty for families and kids to do including funfair rides, roaming entertainers and even a petting zoo!
And by linking up with Mind Tyneside & Northumberland, the festival is raising money for a fantastic cause - more than £127,000 already, in fact!
Where is it happening?
The festival is taking place in the gorgeous surroundings of Leazes Park, just a short walk from both St. James' and Haymarket Metro stations.
When is it happening?
The festival takes place from Saturday 31st May to Sunday 1st June 2025, and runs from 10am to 8pm on the Saturday 10am to 7pm on the Sunday (last entry at 5pm both days).
What kind of food and drink will be available?
The full line-up of street food traders has yet to be announced but you can expect cuisines from all corners of the globe (if last year's edition is anything to go by) with flavours from India, the Far East, Europe, Central America and more.
There’ll be a big Artisan Market too, offering everything from cheese to condiments to pastries and beyond. Local produce is key here, showcasing the best the region has to offer. That applies to the alcohol as well – there will be a selection of bars selling everything from craft ale to cocktails, and some artisan spirit and soft drinks producers hosting stalls too.
What else is happening?
As well as the market, bars and street food stalls there will be several life demos over the weekend from renowned local chefs including MasterChef finalist Anthony O'Shaughnessy and Chris Rawlinson, chef patron at popular local restaurant Zucchini Pasta Bar.
There's a packed line-up on the music stage too - expect sets from talents including singer-songwriter Hannah Goodall, ABBA tribute band Planet ABBA and Newcastle's very own Chilli Road Band. All this plus a funfair, magicians, comedians and cooking classes for kids - and a whole lot more too!
Is it family-friendly?
It’s absolutely family-friendly, and there’s plenty on offer to entertain the little ones, from rides to performers. Under 16s tickets are cheaper, and under fives don’t pay a penny. Well-behaved dogs are welcome too as long as they're kept on a leash, so nobody in the family has to miss out on the foodie fun!
How much are tickets and how do I book?
Day tickets are £10.95 for adults and £5.95 for under 16s, or weekend tickets can be purchased for £14.95 (adults) and £8.95 (kids). Tickets can be bought via the official Newcastle Food Festival website and there's the option to make a donation to Mind Tyneside & Northumberland when you do.
A lovely location, amazing food to feast on and top-class entertainment to boot - we can't think of a better way to spend an early summer weekend. So get those tickets booked and get ready to get stuffed!
Newcastle Food Festival takes place from Saturday 31st May to Sunday 1st June 2025. For more information visit the Newcastle Food Festival website.
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