There’s good news for foodies, as one of the highlights of the autumn, York Food Festival, looks set to return next month.
The not-for-profit organisation that runs the annual festival is in advance discussions with the City of York Council to run a Covid-safe event at the end of September.
It aims to support the re-generation of the city’s food economy, while staying safe.
Plans include a
- “Food Factory” attraction for hands-on cookery sessions for household groups
- a demonstration theatre to allow York chefs to promote their businesses
- a City Food Trail where people could explore York through its food businesses and sample local produce
- and a series of tutored tastings led by York experts.
There will also be a limited number of produce stands for local businesses and Yorkshire food producers to create a market atmosphere.
Street food
In addition to the more limited Parliament Street stalls, there would be a small bar area promoting local beer, gin and independent suppliers and an information point.
The initiative is part of the six-month long recovery marketing plan which is being rolled out by City of York Council and Make It York to support the city’s economy and protect jobs.
Discussions continue with Make it York and York BID to widen the programme in ways that would assist local businesses.
Unlike normal years, there would be no street food or the larger bar infrastructure in Parliament Street.
Signposting would direct people to the Shambles Food Court, Spark and the other street food offers already available in the city.
And the evening charity “MindFest” music event will have an online presence this year.