Community Activity Takes Center Stage at the York Food Festival

The York Food Festival, renowned for its popular hands-on free cookery workshops, opens its doors for a vibrant celebration of community engagement.

From September 22nd to October 1st, the festival offers over 1000 places to local primary schools, welcoming students to the "Food Factory" with open arms. Additionally, it invites the public to join in free of charge, providing an opportunity for everyone to explore their culinary creativity.

The heart of the festival, known as the "Food Factory," provides a unique chance for participants to craft their own bread, pasta, butter, ice-cream, cheese, smoke and cure fish, preserve vegetables, and create a variety of vegan dips. This immersive experience embodies the festival's ethos of sharing knowledge and fostering a love for homemade, locally sourced food.

In the demonstration area, the festival hosts renowned chefs and community organisations for special events. Richard Allen, the former head chef of Harvey Nics in Leeds, will collaborate with a team of individuals with learning difficulties on Thursday, September 28th. On Wednesday, September 27th, Yahala Mataam takes over the area, featuring demonstrations by refugees from the York area. The festival dedicates events to York Cares and the Trussell Trust, showcasing how to make the best use of the produce they distribute and supporting their invaluable work.

The festival's commitment to community extends to its dedicated community stand, located at the heart of the event. Throughout the festival's duration, this stand hosts demonstrations and sampling sessions by Indy York, The Heart of Yorkshire organisation, and a team from Dijon, York's twin town. It also provides information about the Trussell Trust, York Environment Week, and the over 50 Festival, in addition to the public health team, who organise York's first Health Mela nearby, behind the art gallery, on Sunday, September 24th.

The York Food Festival is not confined to daytime activities; every evening, from September 22nd to September 30th, visitors can enjoy live music from 5 pm to 9 pm. This music program aims to support the local St Leonard's Hospice and offers a delightful end to each festival day.

The York Food Festival is a testament to the power of community engagement and culinary exploration. It welcomes everyone to participate, learn, and connect during this 10-day extravaganza.