Everything You Need to Know About: Newcastle Food Festival
All the details you'll need about this must-do event in the city's foodie calendar
Newcastle Food Festival made its debut in the city back in 2024 and we're happy to report that it's returning for a third edition in 2026.
The three-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 Newcastle Food Festival?
It's an absolute extravaganza of food, drinks and family fun and it's returning to Newcastle for its third edition this year, bringing with it delicious array of food - both local and global - and a packed programme of entertainment too. Throughout its three-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 £165,000 already, in fact!
Where is it happening?
The festival is taking place in the gorgeous surroundings of Exhibition Park, just a short walk from both St. James' and Haymarket Metro stations.
When is it happening?
The festival takes place over the early May bank holiday weekend from Saturday 2nd May to Monday 4th May 2026, and runs from 10am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday and from 10am to 6pm on Monday. Last entry to the festival is at 6pm on Saturday and Sunday and5pm on Monday.
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 live chef demos over the weekend from both established and up-and-coming North East chefs plus fun activities like a Chilli Challenge and Dog Show. There's a packed line-up on the music stage too - expect sets from talents including local singer-songwriter Sophie Gordon, blues musician Howlin' Mat and top-class tribute band Oasis Supernova. All this plus a funfair, magicians, comedians and cooking classes for kids - plus 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 priced from £7.95 for adults and from £5.95 for under 16s, or weekend tickets can be purchased from £11.95 (adults) and £7.95 (under 16s). 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 a bank holiday weekend than Newcastle Food Festival - so get those tickets booked and get ready to get stuffed!
Newcastle Food Festival takes place from Saturday 2nd May to Monday 4th May 2026. For more information or to book tickets, visit the offical Newcastle Food Festival website.
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