The Thame Food Festival in Oxfordshire, a vibrant celebration of culinary excellence and creativity is set to return on 28th and 29th September 2024. This exquisite festival brings together a spectacular array of food and drink, featuring live demonstrations on The Big Cookery Stage by some of the nation’s most esteemed chefs and bakers. With a diverse range of artisan foods and a selection of delicious street foods to enjoy while you shop for unique gifts and homewares at the Humble Country Shopping Marquee.
You can also enjoy live music, children’s activities, circus skills workshops and a lively festival bar. Don’t miss the Festival Village, an interactive hub offering children’s cooking classes, wine tasting sessions and the thrilling Festival on Fire BBQ stage. The Thame Food Festival is a great day out for everyone. Tickets are available online now, so plan your visit and prepare to indulge in everything that makes food and drink wonderful. For a complete list of events and to purchase tickets, visit Thame Food Festival’s website.
The Big Cookery Stage
The Big Cookery Stage at Thame Food Festival will be hosted by the illustrious Suzy Pelta, a longstanding favourite of the event. Suzy, won Lorraine’s Cake Club Competition on ITV1’s ‘Lorraine’ show with her delectable Chocolate and Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. She is known for her engaging demonstrations and presentations at major UK food festivals including BBC Good Food Show. Suzy contributes her expertise on BBC Three Counties Radio, appears on Waitrose TV and QVC and delights followers with daily snack reviews on Instagram, often featuring her loyal dog Buster.
This year, the stage will feature an impressive lineup of culinary talent including Matty Edgell, the 2023 Great British Bake Off champion. Matthew Samuels, a MasterChef 2023 Quarter Finalist and Nicky who appeared on the Great British Bake Off series 14. Steven Carter-Bailey, a finalist from the 2017 Great British Bakeoff who also claimed victory in the 2019 New Year’s Day special will also be appearing. They will be joined by James Grant, a restaurateur and cheesemonger with a passion for culinary excellence and the DJ Supper Club duo Daniel Adams and Joel Mignott, who blend high culinary arts with the worlds of fashion and entertainment. This stellar cast of chefs promises to bring exciting flavours and innovative cooking techniques to this year’s festival. For a full list of all the fabulous chefs and bakers, please visit The Big Cookery Stage lineup here.
Artisan Stalls at the Thame Food Festival
Explore an array of artisan stalls at the Thame Food Festival, featuring local and regional delights that promise to tantalise your taste buds. Oxfordshire’s own Abingdon Distillery will showcase their meticulously crafted spirits, perfect for connoisseurs looking to discover new local favourites. For something sweet, Louisa’s Honey offers a taste of the countryside with their pure, sustainably sourced honey. Crepe lovers will rejoice at Oxford Crepes, serving up freshly made crepes with a variety of fillings. Riverford Organic Farmers will impress with their fresh, organic produce. Not to be missed, The Marlow Cheese Company will present their handcrafted cheeses, a must-try for dairy enthusiasts.
Thame Food Festival – Street Food
The festival also boasts a vibrant selection of street food that caters to all palates. Maasai Kitchen will bring a slice of Kenya to Oxfordshire with their authentic Kenyan BBQ, perfect for adventurous eaters. For a cool treat, Purbeck Ice Cream will be serving their award-winning Dorset ice cream, a delightful indulgence for ice cream lovers. Those craving a taste of South America can head to Avila London for a selection of Venezuelan dishes that are sure to impress. Additionally, visitors can enjoy fabulous coffee and more from a variety of vendors, ensuring there’s something to satisfy everyone at this culinary extravaganza.
Music
The Thame Food Festival is set to resonate with the vibrant sounds of live music, offering a delightful auditory complement to the culinary delights over the two days. Festivalgoers will be treated to performances from Restless Oceans, a dynamic four-piece acoustic band from Oxfordshire and Bucks, known for their energetic folk-rock inspired originals. The band weaves together guitars, violin, and engaging percussion with captivating vocal and instrumental harmonies, creating an upbeat atmosphere that perfectly enhances the festival vibe. Adding to the mix, Camino, formed in the winter of 2023, brings together five seasoned musicians united by their passion for classic Harmonic Rock and dance grooves from the Motown Soul and Disco eras, promising a nostalgic and rhythmic experience that attendees are sure to enjoy.
The musical offerings continue with the indie folk sounds of Taylor & Girish, a husband-wife duo based in Oxford. Fresh from their feature on BBC Introducing Oxford & Berkshire, they are eagerly anticipating the release of their debut EP ‘You Never Can Tell.’ Meanwhile, local musician Beth Coate, alongside guitarist Aidi Spencer, will cover a broad spectrum of genres, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste. Not to be overlooked, the Hemley Hillbillies will add a rustic charm to the event, playing throughout the weekend. As they strum and sing, visitors are encouraged to relax on a straw bale and contribute to their fundraising efforts for Parkinson’s disease, enhancing the community spirit of the festival.
The Wine Studio
Enjoy the sophisticated world of oenology at The Wine Studio, a specially designed marquee at this year’s festival, dedicated to both the seasoned connoisseur and the curious novice. This revamped venue will host a series of wine masterclasses, each carefully crafted to elevate your understanding and appreciation of fine wines. Led by the renowned Jane Rakison, an award-winning presenter, writer and the familiar wine expert from BBC1’s Saturday Kitchen Live, attendees will have the unique opportunity to sample a diverse range of exceptional wines. Each session is designed to enlighten you about the distinct profiles and subtleties that define various wine regions and styles, with an educational and delightful experience for all who partake.
Kids Activities
This year’s Thame Food Festival is packed with delightful activities for the younger crowd, ensuring a fun-filled day for all ages. The festival grounds will feature Flotsam The Fool’s Circus Workshops, where children can learn circus skills and partake in interactive, entertaining performances. Thomley Children’s Activity Area will provide a vibrant space for kids to engage in a variety of games and crafts. For budding young chefs, Mrs Bun the Baker will host cooking lessons designed specifically for children. These sessions are tailored to different age groups and skill levels, making them a perfect way for kids to explore the joys of cooking and baking in an encouraging, fun environment. Don’t miss the chance to ignite a passion for culinary arts in your little ones at this exciting food festival.
Shopping at Thame Food Festival
The Humble Country Shopping Marquee at Thame Food Festival has an array of small independent businesses that offer unique homewares, gifts and accessories. This year, they are excited to return with an even more spectacular selection curated by the Humble Country team. The marquee serves as a vibrant highlight of the festival, offering a stunning assortment of items that are perfect for enhancing your home or adding a special touch to your wardrobe. From cosy autumnal throws and scented candles to exquisite jewellery and stylish handbags, there’s something to catch every eye. It’s the ideal spot to support small businesses, find one-of-a-kind pieces and even get a head start on your Christmas shopping!
Why not take the opportunity to turn your festival visit into a getaway by booking the perfect accommodation to relax and unwind after a day of culinary adventures. Make sure to visit our ‘stay section’ to find and book your ideal stay, ensuring a complete and delightful weekend at the Thame Food Festival.
