Yorkshire’s Feast of Spring: A Guide to the Season’s Best Food Festivals

As the grey cloak of winter recedes, Yorkshire bursts into vibrant life, not just with the bloom of daffodils and the chirp of returning birds, but also through the lively spirit of its spring food festivals. These culinary celebrations, scattered like jewels across the region’s verdant landscape, promise an exploration of taste, tradition, and community. From the freshest farm-to-table delights to innovative dishes that challenge the palate, Yorkshire’s food festivals in spring offer a unique journey through the heart and soul of its rich culinary heritage. Food lovers and adventure seekers alike are invited to dive into a 6 of the best Yorkshire spring food festivals, where flavour knows no bounds.

1. Sheffield Vegan Festival – 60+ fantastic stalls, world food caterers, exciting cookery demos, inspirational talks, interactive workshops, yoga and children’s activities running throughout the day from 10.30am – 4.00pm.

The English Institute of Sport, Coleridge Rd, Sheffield S9 5DA.  Visit Website

2. North Leeds Food Festival – Happening on May 11th and 12th, 2024, this festival is a celebration of international influence and local talent, expressed through international food, independent drink, music, and arts. It’s family-friendly with activities for all ages.

Roundhay Park, Leeds, LS8 2HH. Visit Website

3. Whitby Fish and Ships Festival – The popular Whitby Fish & Ships Festival will be back in 2024 for a weekend of food, music and history in the historic seaside town of Whitby. The Fish and Ships Festival is all about celebrating everything Whitby is, from its fishing heritage to its famous fish and chips. All throughout the town you will find live music, cooking demonstrations, walking tours and activities for the kids to enjoy.

New Quay Road, Whitby, North Yorkshire YO21 1DH Visit Website

4. Great British Food Festival at Harewood House – From May 25th to 27th, 2024, this festival combines great food and drink with one of the country’s most treasured locations, offering a special time for food lovers.

Sandy Gate, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LE. Visit Website

5. Malton Food Lovers Festival – On May 25th and 26th, 2024, Set across the streets of Yorkshire’s Food Capital, Malton Food Lovers Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce & cooking. Expect over 100 artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar, live music & much, much more.

Market Place, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 7LX. Visit Website

6. Sheffield Food Festival – From May 25th to 27th one of the city’s largest free to attend events for all the family, the festival is a bustling exhibition of Sheffield’s thriving food & drink scene, with over 50 traders taking part, many of which are based locally. Once again, the festival will be split into four areas, with the traditional Street Food section, an Artisan Market, the Info Village and then a Main Stage & Bar.

Peace Gardens, 50 Pinstone Street, Sheffield, S1 2HH. Visit Website