Food Events

The Future of Campus Dining & Nutrition Seminar arrives in Sheffield to tackle one of the most significant aspects of university life: the food. In an era where dietary requirements are becoming increasingly diverse and student expectations for high-quality, ethical, and healthy food are at an all-time high, university hospitality teams must adapt or fall behind. This seminar focuses specifically on the evolution of the campus canteen into a vibrant, health-focused culinary hub. We will examine the latest trends in plant-based nutrition, allergen management, and the "global kitchen" concept that celebrates the diverse international student populations found in UK universities. The seminar will feature live demonstrations and case studies from leading institutions that have successfully revamped their dining programs. We will discuss the logistics of "grab-and-go" culture versus the traditional sit-down meal, and how spatial design in dining halls can foster social interaction and reduce student isolation. Experts in nutrition will provide insights into "brain food"—menus designed specifically to boost cognitive function and mental health during exam periods. In addition to the nutritional aspects, we will cover the business of dining. This includes supply chain resilience in the post-Brexit landscape, managing rising food costs without passing the burden onto students, and leveraging data analytics to predict meal demand and reduce waste. This event is a must-attend for anyone involved in the procurement, preparation, or planning of university food services. By the end of the day, delegates will have a comprehensive roadmap for creating a dining service that is not only a utility but a highlight of the student recruitment and retention strategy. Sheffield’s rich industrial and culinary heritage provides the perfect backdrop for this forward-thinking discussion.

As the second day of this spectacular weekend, the Great British Food Festival at Arley Hall continues to deliver an immersive gastronomic journey in the heart of the United Kingdom. Located just a short drive from Warrington, this event transforms the East Front Lawn of the Arley Estate into a bustling hub of culinary creativity. This is more than just a market; it is a community gathering that celebrates the craftsmanship of British producers and the joy of outdoor dining in a heritage setting. The Sunday schedule is packed with unique experiences, including the "Mini Challenge Stage" and the "Live Fire Demo" area. Here, masters of the grill demonstrate the art of open-fire cooking, providing aromatic samples of slow-roasted meats and charred delicacies. The festival focuses heavily on the "field to fork" philosophy, encouraging visitors to speak directly with the makers of the products they buy. This personal connection adds a layer of depth to the shopping experience, whether you are picking up a bottle of locally distilled vodka or a loaf of sourdough baked that morning. For those looking for a bit of luxury, the festival offers "Sip & Paint" workshops and prosecco bars where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere. The "Kingo Bingo" and "Food Olympics" provide lighthearted fun for all ages, bridging the gap between a traditional village fete and a modern food expo. The layout is designed to be accessible and spacious, with plenty of seating areas strategically placed near the live music stage so visitors can eat their street food while enjoying the talent of regional musicians. One of the standout features of the Warrington-based event is its dog-friendly nature. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcomed throughout the site, including the "Woof Competition" which sees local pets competing for fun titles. With the inclusion of garden access, visitors can take a break from the crowds to explore the quiet corners of the Arley Hall grounds. By combining high-quality food, educational workshops, and a stunning location, the Great British Food Festival ensures that it remains the premier choice for anyone seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable day out in the North West.

The Great British Food Festival returns to the stunning grounds of Arley Hall & Gardens, situated just a short drive from Warrington, for a spectacular two-day celebration of the very best in British and international cuisine. Set against the backdrop of one of the North West's most beautiful stately homes—famously known as a filming location for Peaky Blinders—this event has established itself as a cornerstone of the regional summer calendar. Visitors can expect a sensory feast from the moment they arrive. The heart of the festival is the Artisan Market, where dozens of independent producers showcase everything from small-batch gins and handmade fudges to organic cheeses and locally reared meats. It is the perfect opportunity to meet the makers, hear the stories behind the products, and stock up on unique pantry essentials that you won't find on supermarket shelves. For those looking to sharpen their own culinary skills, the Headline Stage hosts a continuous rotation of professional chefs. These experts share their secrets, demonstrate complex techniques, and provide inspiration for home cooks. If you prefer a bit of competition, the "Cake-Off" and "Men V Meat" challenges provide high-energy entertainment as brave volunteers take to the stage to test their appetites and baking prowess. The Street Food Arena is a dedicated space for immediate indulgence. Whether you are craving authentic wood-fired pizzas, spicy Thai street food, or a traditional British hog roast, the variety of vendors ensures every palate is catered for. This is perfectly complemented by the Live Music Stage, featuring local bands and solo artists who provide a relaxed, festival atmosphere throughout the weekend. Families are exceptionally well-catered for, making this more than just a food market. The "Kids Cookery" sessions allow younger visitors to get hands-on with food in a fun, educational environment. Combined with circus workshops, bouncy castles, and the opportunity to explore the manicured Arley Gardens, it offers a complete day out for all generations.

The Calipso Roast is coming to the heart of Ipswich this spring, offering a sensory journey through the vibrant and bold world of Caribbean coffee culture. Set against the historic backdrop of The Old Post Office on the Cornhill, this immersive workshop is designed to bridge the gap between the casual coffee drinker and the artisanal connoisseur. As the morning sun hits the cobblestones of Ipswich, we invite you to step inside a space transformed by the rich, earthy aromas of beans sourced directly from the volcanic soils of Jamaica, the high altitudes of Haiti, and the lush estates of the Dominican Republic. The event kicks off with an "Origin Story" session, where expert roasters will guide you through the unique geography that gives Caribbean coffee its signature profile—low acidity, heavy body, and notes of chocolate and spice. You won’t just be listening; you’ll be engaging in a hands-on roasting demonstration. Participants will witness the transformation of green "drupes" into the dark, glossy beans we know and love, learning how to identify the "first crack" and the precise timing required to achieve a perfect medium-dark roast without losing the bean's inherent floral characteristics. Moving beyond the roast, the Calipso Roast highlights the traditional brewing methods that have defined Caribbean hospitality for generations. Our lead baristas will demonstrate the "Café con Leche" technique and the precision of pour-overs, emphasizing how water temperature and grind size can drastically alter the flavor profile. The afternoon session evolves into a guided cupping experience—a formal tasting process used by professionals to evaluate coffee quality. Here, you will learn to use a "flavour wheel" to identify subtle hints of nutmeg, molasses, and tropical fruit. But coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a community. The Calipso Roast also focuses on the ethics of the industry, hosting a short panel on direct-trade practices and the importance of supporting small-scale Caribbean farmers. We aim to ensure that every cup enjoyed in Ipswich contributes to a sustainable future for the growers in the tropics. Between sessions, attendees can enjoy live acoustic steel pan music, creating a relaxed, "island-time" atmosphere right in the middle of Suffolk. To round out the day, every guest will participate in a blending workshop. Under the guidance of our master roaster, you will create your own "Calipso Signature Blend" to take home. You’ll experiment with mixing beans of different origins to balance sweetness and strength, ensuring you leave not just with a caffeine buzz, but with a new skill set and a deeper appreciation for the labor and love that goes into every single bean. Whether you are a local business owner looking to upgrade your office brew or a home enthusiast eager to master the craft, the Calipso Roast provides a comprehensive, educational, and soul-warming experience.

The East of England Co-operative Society is proud to host a landmark event in the heart of Ipswich, dedicated to the evolving landscape of sustainable retail and community-led commerce. As one of the largest independent co-operatives in the UK, we are opening our doors to members, industry experts, and the local community to discuss the critical intersection of local sourcing, ethical business practices, and the future of the food supply chain in East Anglia. This symposium serves as a vital platform for dialogue during a time of significant transition in the UK’s agricultural and retail sectors. Attendees can expect a day filled with immersive sessions. We will begin with a keynote address from our leadership team, outlining the Society’s 2026 sustainability roadmap and our commitment to reducing carbon footprints through "Sourced Locally" initiatives. This program has already pumped millions of pounds back into the regional economy, and the symposium will explore how we can scale this success to meet the challenges of the next decade. Following the keynote, we will host a series of panel discussions featuring local farmers, logistics experts, and environmental advocates. These sessions will dive deep into the mechanics of "farm-to-fork" transparency and the role of co-operative models in ensuring food security. The afternoon session is designed to be interactive. We are hosting a "Producer Showcase" within the venue, allowing attendees to meet the faces behind the products found on our shelves. From artisanal bakers to innovative dairy farmers, this is a unique opportunity to understand the craftsmanship and challenges of regional production. Furthermore, we will hold a dedicated workshop on the "Circular Economy in Retail," focusing on how the East of England Co-op is pioneering zero-waste initiatives and plastic reduction strategies across our 200+ outlets. As an organization owned by its members, the Society believes in the power of collective action. This event isn't just about listening; it's about contributing. We will hold a live Q&A session where the public can voice their opinions on what they want to see from their local Co-op in the coming years. Whether it is more diverse product ranges, increased community investment, or faster adoption of green technologies, your voice will help shape our strategic direction. By attending the Future of Food Symposium, you are participating in a movement that prioritizes people and the planet over short-term profit. You will gain insights into the complexities of modern food systems while networking with like-minded individuals who care about the provenance of their food and the health of their local high streets. Join us for an inspiring day of learning, tasting, and community building as we work together to build a more resilient and equitable future for the East of England.

The Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Showcase, supported by Scottish Enterprise, is the definitive event for the nation’s vibrant hospitality and food production sectors. This event serves a dual purpose: it is both a celebration of industry achievements and a high-level networking forum aimed at driving commercial growth. Bringing together over 500 influential guests, the showcase highlights the innovation and resilience of Scottish producers who are leading the way in sustainability and global export. The event features a curated "Supplier Marketplace" where buyers from major retail chains, independent wholesalers, and top-tier hospitality groups can sample the latest products hitting the Scottish market. From craft spirits and artisanal dairy to sustainable seafood and plant-based innovations, the showcase provides a window into the future of the industry. Educational seminars held throughout the day focus on critical topics such as "The Future of Sustainable Packaging" and "Navigating Global Export Markets Post-2025." For businesses, this is a prime opportunity to connect with Scottish Enterprise trade specialists who can provide guidance on international market entry and scaling operations. The day concludes with an awards ceremony that recognizes the "best of the best," fostering a sense of community and shared ambition. It is an unmissable date for anyone involved in the Scottish food and drink supply chain.

The Dundee's Whisky Festival makes its highly anticipated debut at the iconic Caird Hall in June 2026. This landmark event is set to become the premier gathering for spirits enthusiasts in the Tayside region, celebrating Scotland's most famous export within one of the country’s most prestigious concert halls. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer eager to learn the difference between a Speyside and an Islay, this festival offers a comprehensive journey through the world of "the water of life." The grand hall will be transformed into a vibrant tasting marketplace, featuring dozens of exhibitors ranging from world-renowned legacy distilleries to the new wave of independent Scottish bottlers. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to sample hundreds of different whiskies, including limited editions, cask-strength releases, and exclusive festival bottlings that are rarely found on high-street shelves. Each ticket includes a commemorative Glencairn tasting glass, allowing you to savour the complex notes and aromas of each dram as the experts intended. Education is a core pillar of the festival. Throughout the day, a series of exclusive Masterclasses will be hosted in the hall’s side suites. These intimate sessions, led by Master Distillers and industry insiders, dive deep into the science of maturation, the art of blending, and the heritage of various regional styles. You will learn about the intricate process of coopering, the influence of different oak casks, and the stories behind the labels. Beyond the liquid gold, the festival will feature local food pairings designed to complement the whisky profiles, including artisanal Scottish cheeses, chocolates, and savory snacks. With live acoustic music providing a sophisticated backdrop, the event fosters a relaxed and social atmosphere perfect for networking with fellow enthusiasts. Dundee's Whisky Festival is a true celebration of craft, culture, and community, marking a new chapter in the city's burgeoning events calendar.

Welcome to the exclusive Print Cakes Artisan Showcase, a premier event in the heart of Sunderland dedicated to the intersection of culinary art and branding technology. Located at our flagship bakery and production suite in the Stanfield Business Centre, this event offers a deep dive into the world of edible printing and high-end confectionery design. Print Cakes has built a reputation for delivering premium branded treats to some of the UK’s largest corporations. This upcoming event serves as an open invitation for local business owners, event planners, and marketing professionals to witness the meticulous process behind our famous logo cupcakes and bespoke biscuits. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore our production facility, where we combine traditional baking techniques with state-of-the-art edible ink technology. The showcase will feature live demonstrations of high-speed edible printing, allowing guests to see how complex corporate logos are rendered with precision onto fondant and icing. Beyond the technical aspect, the event is a sensory experience. Guests will be invited to participate in a "Taste and Texture" session, sampling our signature vanilla, chocolate, and vegan recipes to understand why our products are a staple at product launches and corporate retreats nationwide. Furthermore, our specialist team will host a branding consultation workshop. This segment is designed for marketing leads who want to elevate their brand visibility through "tasty marketing." We will discuss custom packaging solutions, nationwide multi-drop logistics for remote teams, and how to create a "social media buzz" using visually striking edible assets. Whether you are planning a massive corporate anniversary or a targeted PR stunt, this event provides the creative inspiration and technical knowledge needed to make your next project a sweet success. Join us for a day of networking, innovation, and, of course, plenty of cake.

The Midlands Vegan Festival returns to the heart of Wolverhampton in 2026, transforming the City Market into a vibrant hub of plant-based innovation and ethical living. Hosted by the Midlands Vegan Campaign, this event is designed to celebrate the incredible growth of the vegan movement while providing a welcoming space for everyone—from long-term vegans to those simply curious about a meat-free lifestyle. Visitors can expect a diverse marketplace featuring over 40 hand-picked stalls. The event highlights include a massive array of vegan street food ranging from gourmet plant-based burgers and spicy tacos to indulgent dairy-free desserts and artisan cakes. Beyond the food, the festival showcases the "business of kindness" with ethical fashion brands, plastic-free beauty products, handmade jewelry, and sustainable household goods. Education is a core pillar of the Midlands Vegan Campaign. Throughout the day, attendees can engage with local environmental charities and animal welfare organizations to learn more about the impact of their consumer choices. The festival also serves as a prime networking spot for local entrepreneurs and creators within the West Midlands' green economy. Set within the covered outdoor space of the City Market, the event offers a family-friendly atmosphere with accessible facilities and plenty of seating to enjoy the live music and community spirit. Whether you are looking to stock up on unique vegan ingredients, find the perfect eco-friendly gift, or simply enjoy a delicious lunch, the Midlands Vegan Festival is the premier destination for conscious consumers in Wolverhampton this year.

The Advances in Chemical Analysis of Food V is a high-level scientific symposium that marks the fifth installment of this highly successful series. Jointly organized by the RSC Food Group and the RSC Separation Science Group, the event is dedicated to the latest methodological and technological breakthroughs in the chemical analysis of food products. As global food supply chains become increasingly complex, the role of precise chemical analysis in ensuring safety, authenticity, and nutritional quality has never been more critical. Taking place in April 2026 at the historic Burlington House in London, the symposium provides a specialized forum for analytical chemists to discuss the transition from traditional laboratory techniques to high-throughput, automated, and portable sensing technologies. The program is carefully curated to cover diverse topics, including the detection of emerging contaminants (such as microplastics and PFAS), advanced mass spectrometry for food metabolomics, and the use of isotopic analysis for food fraud prevention. A unique feature of this year's meeting is the integration of "Data Science in Analysis," exploring how machine learning algorithms are being used to interpret complex chromatograms and spectral data. The event structure includes plenary lectures from industry leaders, rapid-fire presentations for early-career researchers, and a dedicated poster session. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with equipment manufacturers showcasing the latest in LC-MS, GC-MS, and NMR technology specifically tailored for food matrices. This series remains a vital touchstone for any professional involved in the rigorous science of what we eat.