Colchester Food and Drink Festival celebrates culinary enthusiasts

Colchester Food Festival took place over the weekend, enticing food enthusiasts from near and far.

Thousands - residents flocked to Food and Drink Festival (Image: Newsquest)

Fresh - Festival offered a fresh range of juices (Image: Newsquest)

The annual event, which celebrated its 21st anniversary, attracted a record-breaking crowd, with attendees eagerly indulging in a wide array of delectable dishes, culinary workshops, and entertainment.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Castle Park, the festival showcased the rich gastronomic heritage, embracing both traditional and innovative dishes and drinks.

Delicious - meal made by chief catering near VIP tent (Image: Newsquest)

Cider - local stall showcased how cider and apple juice are made (Image: Newsquest)

Local farmers, talented chefs, and passionate food vendors came together to create a feast for the senses, ensuring a memorable experience for all who attended.

The festival kicked off on Friday, June 24, with an exciting opening ceremony that featured live music performances and speeches from renowned chefs.

Festival-goers were immediately greeted with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling street food stalls, tempting them to embark on a gastronomic adventure.Tasty - stalls and van gave free samples for residents to enjoy (Image: Newsquest)

Fun - festival was filled with colourful vans and stalls (Image: Newsquest)

Event organizer, Don Quinn, expressed his delight at the overwhelming success of the festival.

He said: "This is the biggest Food and Drink festival we have done up to date. 

"I would say that we have sold over a quarter more tickets this year.

"I'm so glad and proud to see so many different stands and vans with a unique range of delicious cuisines. 

"This year, we are celebrating our 21st anniversary, and I couldn't ask for better weather and atmosphere. 

"I'm impressed with the vendors and I would like to thank them all for supporting our festival."

Unique - festival did not lack unique and interesting stalls that peaked participants' interests (Image: Newsquest)

Charity - residents also supported great causes (Image: Newsquest)

Visitors had the opportunity to explore a diverse range of cuisines, from Thai and Indian street food to classic British favourites with a contemporary twist.

Artisanal food producers and farmers showcased their finest products, offering attendees a chance to sample and purchase high-quality ingredients, such as locally sourced cheeses, freshly baked bread, and organic fruits and vegetables.

Beverages - alcohol stands held multiple sample sessions to let festival-goers try premium products (Image: Newsquest)

Fresh - festival included a stall with seeds and fresh produce to grow in your own garden (Image: Newsquest)

Joe Hurd, a celebrity chef has also attended the festival. He said: "I absolutely enjoyed the festival. 

"It's great to see more of these food and drink festivals across the UK.

"In particular, the atmosphere of Colchester's festival is amazing - I feel like I'm at a party!

"This is a total must-visit and I'm sure people are thrilled to take part in such a great event. 

"I have enjoyed the food - I even spotted a sausage faggot, which I never knew was known and served down south in Essex."

Delicious - festival also included a range of delicious desserts and snacks (Image: Newsquest)

Residents were also able to go through a range of stalls with handmade products like candles, china, toys and much more.

Region's charities have also attended to raise money for good causes. 

In addition to the culinary delights, the festival featured live music performances, street performers, and children's activities.