Hampshire Fare, the esteemed group dedicated to championing the county’s food, drink, and craft industry, is delighted to declare the triumphant return of the Winchester Food Festival following its highly successful debut last year. This delectable celebration is slated to take place on Sunday, July 14, amidst the idyllic surrounds of the Outer Close of Winchester Cathedral.
In partnership with Winchester BID and Winchester Cathedral, this year’s festival vows to surpass expectations, offering an even grander and more diverse experience. Free to attend, it will showcase the finest local produce from the Winchester District and beyond.
The 2024 Winchester Food Festival promises an expanded array of stalls, activities catering to all ages, and captivating chef demonstrations. Attendees can treat their taste buds to an array of local delicacies, including micro-greens, trout, coffee, orchard juices, cheeses, honey, beer, and gin.
Adding a fresh dimension to the festivities, the Winchester Food Festival will kick off with a week-long series of events from Monday, July 8, to Saturday, July 13, under the banner ‘A Taste of Winchester’. Hampshire Fare, in collaboration with Winchester City Council, aims to engage local food and drink producers, artisans, and hospitality establishments within the Winchester district, encouraging their participation through a variety of events and activities, ranging from tastings and culinary masterclasses to exclusive offers and themed menus.
Cllr Lucille Thompson, Portfolio Holder for Business and Culture at Winchester City Council, commented, “This inclusive community event invites both residents and visitors to relish the flavors from across the district. A week of culinary festivities not only enriches the festival experience but also lends support to local businesses, encouraging both visitors and residents to ‘shop local, think local, and support local’, especially during Independent Business Month. Winchester City Council is proud to collaborate with Hampshire Fare, Winchester BID, and Winchester Cathedral in celebrating the district’s rich food and drink heritage.”
Natasha Dochniak, Commercial Manager at Hampshire Fare, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s growth, stating, “Hampshire boasts an abundance of exceptional food and drink producers, and we are thrilled to expand our event to celebrate A Taste of Winchester. The Cathedral provides a magnificent backdrop for the Food Festival, and we eagerly anticipate unveiling our plans for the week.”
Dr. Paul Spencer, Winchester Business Improvement District (BID), echoed this sentiment, affirming, “Winchester BID is delighted to once again support the Winchester Food Festival. Winchester is a haven for culinary enthusiasts, and July 14 promises to be a gastronomic delight. We look forward to witnessing our members collaborate in A Taste of Winchester and celebrating Independent Business Month.”
Set against the majestic backdrop of Winchester Cathedral’s Outer Close, the Food Festival offers the perfect setting to enjoy a picnic of local delights while reveling in the chef’s stage performances. John Blake, Winchester Cathedral’s Commercial Director, expressed delight in hosting the event once more, emphasizing, “We are pleased to welcome Hampshire Fare, their members, and the public to celebrate the county’s exquisite flavors.”
The Winchester Food Festival owes its success to the generous support of local businesses, with Clarke & Son stepping in as the first partner. William Anderson, Director and Head of Corporate & Commercial Practice at Clarke & Son, expressed their delight in partnering with Hampshire Fare, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Hampshire Fare in celebrating local produce and craftsmanship at the Winchester Food Festival. This festival epitomizes the spirit of collaboration, and we are proud to contribute to fostering community connections and supporting Hampshire’s local businesses.”