York Food Festival to return in September with new events

York will once again come alive with the sights, smells and tastes of celebration as York Food Festival 2025 returns for ten flavour-filled days in September.

The event promises a vibrant programme of culinary demonstrations, cultural collaborations and hands-on experiences.

Organisers says this year’s ‘Feast of Flavour, Culture and community’ promises to be the most exciting yet.

Celebrating the region’s rich food heritage, diverse communities and creative spirit, the Festival promises something for everyone — from passionate foodies to families, students and curious visitors alike.

Festival highlights include an Curry and Comedy Night (in partnership with Aesthetica Film Festival & Rafi’s Spicebox).

This featurestwo comedy shorts and a shared Indian meal at the atmospheric NCEM. The new format and venue aims to celebrate York’s status as a UNESCO City of Media Arts.

 A Yorkshire Producers Evening at St Crux Hall will be a celebration of the best in local drinks. There will be tastings, talks, and meet-the-maker moments each night.

Yahala Mataan  of the Syrian Refugee Group will also host a one-off cookery class and a separate community meal evening, bringing York’s cultural diversity to the Festival table.

The annual Live for St Leonard’s fundraiser features two outdoor live music stages to support St Leonard’s Hospice. Last year’s event raised over £6,000 for the charity.

The Assize of Ale Returns, featuring York’s civic party in full regalia for a charitable tour of city pubs.

Daytime highlights include the bustling Festival Market covering Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square. There will be street food, regional producers and delicious goods to take home.

 The Food Factory will be a fully hands on cookery space offering 1,000 weekday places for primary schools.

There will also be evening sessions for Guides, Scouts and other youth groups, plus weekend access for the public.

Activities will include making Butter, Cheese, Lemonade scones, Bread, Pizza,  Pasta, Salt curing and smoking.

New for this year is The Yorkshire Stand, with free samples from a handpicked selection of regional producers: charcuterie, cheese, smoked goods, breads, pasta, coffee, chocolate, spirits and more.

Visitors can also enjoy a rolling video showcase of local makers in action and meet them in person at daily “Meet the Producer” sessions.

A Hospitality Careers Hub in collaboration with York College, the Festival introduces a daily Hospitality Jobs Stand and a dedicated Hospitality Careers Fair on September 26, connecting visitors with real opportunities in the hospitality sector.

There will also be Guided Food Tours, including a brand-new tour led by York on a Fork explores some of the culinary delights of both York and the Festival. The Self-Guided Taste Trail and the Chocolate Bar Tour, ideal for families with young children, are also returning.

Festival Director, Michael Hjort, said: “ This year’s York Food Festival is all about collaboration and connection – bringing together communities, producers, performers and the next generation of food lovers. From tasting sessions to job opportunities, and scones to cinema, there’s something for everyone. We can’t wait to welcome you!”

Many events are free, while others require pre-booking. With limited spaces for evening events — especially Curry and Comedy Night — early booking is recommended.

Full programme and tickets available soon at: www.yorkfoodfestival.com