The 7th annual Bolton Food & Drink Festival has just kicked off with an impressive roster of awesome chefs. The four-day feast is on the calendar of any foodie and has gained something of a cult following (cult and Bolton doesn’t really go in the same sentence, but trust me on this instance). Launched by the magnificent Michael Caines and artisan baker extraordinaire / silver fox Paul Hollywood, the Bank Holiday weekend promises to be chockfull of scrumptious food, fun and frolics. In between cookery demonstrations and sampling fresh local produce you can mingle with the chefs and fellow foodies whilst enjoying live entertainment in the form of jazz bands and childrens’ entertainers.
The Leader of Bolton Council Councillor Cliff Morris, said: “Each year the festival gets bigger and better and the weekend is now well-established on the foodie calendar. If anyone hasn’t made plans for the Bank Holiday yet, then I would recommend a visit to Bolton Food and Drink Festival.”
James Martin and Jean Cristophe-Novelli are regulars and it is always a pleasure to see them. I recall last time the delectable James Martin used someone’s walking stick as a prop to mould fresh caramel (some things will stick with you for life).
I’ve been a fan of the food festival since 2010, when me and my gal pal stumbled across it by accident (we were visiting from London and serendipitously just happened to be in the area). Now, it’s a staple in our diaries. There’s nothing like a good ‘ole bratwust washed down with German beer, followed by freshly made pancakes hot off the press. The atmosphere is a delicious mix of carnival / mellow chill and I can’t wait to check out the stalls over the coming days. Expect more pictures (Instagram, here I come!) and updates throughout the weekend. If you’re around, do pop by to say hello, it will be lovely to meet you!
RAx