Oxfordshire is renowned for its thriving culinary scene, and there’s no better way to experience it than through its diverse food festivals. From gourmet food trucks to artisanal producers and Michelin-starred chefs, there’s something for everyone at Oxfordshire’s food festivals. In this article, we’ll explore four of the most popular food festivals in Oxford and Oxfordshire: The Big Feastival, the Foodies Festival Oxford, Thame Food Festival, and the Blenheim Palace Food Festival.
The Big Feastival
The Big Feastival is a three-day food and music festival that takes place on Alex James’ farm (former bassist of the rock band Blur), near Kingham in Oxfordshire. The festival is a celebration of food, music, and family-friendly entertainment, and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The festival brings together some of the UK’s best chefs, including this year Asma Khan, Nathan Outlaw and Lisa Goodwin-Allen, along with top musicians, including Sigrid, Rick Astley, Example and Faithless DJ Set. Visitors can sample food from over 40 food stalls, watch cooking demonstrations, and participate in hands-on workshops. The festival is family-friendly and has plenty of activities for children, including face painting and circus workshops.
The Big Feastival is a fun and enjoyable event that caters to all ages, offering something for everyone. It provides a great opportunity to discover and celebrate the best of Oxfordshire’s food and music scene, as well as to enjoy a day out in the beautiful Cotswolds countryside.
Date: 25 August 2023 to 27 August 2023
The Foodies Festival Oxford
The Oxford Foodies Festival is a three-day festival that takes place in South Park, Oxford. The festival features food and drink from over 100 exhibitors, including artisan producers, street food vendors, and top restaurants. The festival also includes live music from Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Scouting for Girls and Martin Kemp. Cookery demonstrations, and masterclasses from chefs, including Jack Strurgess (Channel 4’s Sunday Bruch Bread Expert), Paul Welburn, Dhruv Baker (Masterchef winner 2010) and Charlotte White (Restoration Cake). Visitors can also participate in wine tastings, mixology workshops, and kid’s cookery.
The Foodies Festival in Oxford is a must-visit event for foodies and anyone interested in discovering the best of Oxfordshire’s culinary scene. It is a great opportunity to sample and purchase high-quality food and drink, learn from top chefs and experts, and have a fun and enjoyable day out with family and friends.
Date: 26 August 2023 to 28 August 2023
Thame Food Festival
The Thame Food Festival is a two-day festival that takes place in the historic market town of Thame. The festival showcases a wide range of culinary delights from artisan food and drink producers, local chefs, and street food vendors. Visitors can browse the various stalls and sample everything from homemade cakes and pies, to locally brewed beers and ciders. There are also live cooking demonstrations from top chefs, giving attendees the chance to learn new skills and pick up tips and tricks from the professionals.
The festival has a great atmosphere with live music and entertainment, making it a fun and enjoyable day out for all the family. Not forgetting the popular Fun Dog Show!
It is a must-visit event for foodies, and a great opportunity to discover and celebrate the best of Oxfordshire’s food and drink scene.
Date: Saturday 30 September 2023 and Sunday 01 October2023.
Blenheim Palace Food Festival
The Blenheim Palace Food Festival is a three-day festival that takes place in the stunning grounds of Blenheim Palace. The festival is a celebration of local and international cuisine, with a focus on showcasing the best in artisan food and drink. The event brings together a wide variety of food and drink producers, chefs, and street food vendors, giving attendees the opportunity to sample and purchase a diverse range of culinary delights.
Visitors can watch live cooking demonstrations by top chefs and participate in workshops to learn new cooking techniques and recipes. The festival also offers a range of activities for children, such as cooking classes and interactive games. There are also craft stalls, live music, and entertainment throughout the weekend, creating a lively and fun-filled atmosphere.
The Blenheim Palace Food Festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of Blenheim Palace and its stunning gardens while indulging in the very best food and drink Oxfordshire has to offer. It is a popular event that draws visitors from across the region and beyond, making it a must-visit event for foodies and anyone interested in experiencing the best of Oxfordshire’s culinary scene.
Date: 27 May 2023 to 29 May 2023
Oxfordshire’s food festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience the region’s diverse culinary scene. From celebrity chefs to local producers, there’s something for everyone at these festivals. Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample new flavours or a family looking for a fun day out, be sure to add these festivals to your diary.
